Page 95 of Skate the Line

I glance around as if I’m going to find the answer in his room.

My attention flies to my phone with another text.

Oscar: I never wanted to unsend a text before, but you’re just full of firsts for me.

What other firsts is he referring to?

He’s typing again, and now I’m skeptical that he’s in his right state of mind.

Oscar: Can you teach me to braid?

I trap a laugh behind a smile.

Me: Have you been drinking?

Oscar: No...yes.

Oscar: How’d you know?

Me: You’re being nice and asking for my help with something you swear you can do on your own.

Oscar: I’m always nice to you.

Me: Compared to a couple weeks ago, sure.

I’m enjoying this side of him. Tipsy Rhodes is much more relaxed and less intimidating. I change his name in my phone to Rhodes because, at the moment, he isn’t being a grouch.

Rhodes: You’re the only person I feel okay sharing my weaknesses with.

I snort and quickly glance at Ellie, hoping she doesn’t wake up.

Me: Weaknesses? You consider not being able to braid a weakness?

Rhodes: When you’re a single father to a little girl, yes.

I see his point.

Me: Try having a weakness like mine. I’m a near 26-year-old woman with all my friends getting married, and I’m practically afraid to even let a man touch me.

I guess he isn’t the only one who feels comfortable showing some vulnerability at the moment.

Rhodes: Don’t forget you’re afraid of hospitals too.

I silently scoff. As if I needed the reminder.

Rhodes: I could help you.

Help me?

Me: Help me with what? Are you going to try to desensitize me and make me sit in hospital waiting rooms without holding my hand?

I wait eagerly for his next text.

The typing bubbles pop up. Then they disappear. This happens a few times before a text comes in.

Rhodes: I’m a man.

Just how much has he had to drink?

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