Page 39 of Injustice and Absolution

Good morning, Delilah.

How the hell did he know it was me? I suppose he could have guessed, seeing how he told me to text him in the morning. I wonder if he’s been anxiously awaiting a message from me. Could he have been waiting up all night for me to see his note? No, that’s ridiculous.

But even if that’s not the case, simply the idea of it has me feeling a little playful. With the butterflies back in flight, I type my reply.

Who’s Delilah?

I laugh to myself, wondering if this is what I’ve been missing in my life. Is this how Maggie felt the first time she met Fernando? Does she still feel this way when she sees him and talks to him?

A pretty girl I met recently.

I suck my lips between my teeth to keep the enormous smile his message elicits off my face, but it’s no use. And who is here that I need to hide it from anyway? I can’t remember the last time I smiled as genuinely as this, and for once, I want to stop questioning everything and let myself enjoy the moment.

I want to say something to him that will make him smile too. But after a few minutes, I still can’t think of anything meaningful.

She must have been lucky to cross paths with you.

Oh my god. Lame...

Ew, that was terrible. I hate myself right now.

Before I have a chance to throw my phone out the window, he responds.

I’m the lucky one.

I roll my eyes, but they conflict with the nauseatingly goofy smile forming on my lips.

That’s equally as cringey as my message to you was.

Another quick response comes in.

So we’re meant for one another, then.

My grin stretches wider.

Have you taken the Motrin I left for you yet?

Yes.

Quickly grabbing the tablets from the table, I toss them back and finally open the water, chasing the pills with it. The cool liquid feels incredible on my throat, and before I know it, I’ve downed half the bottle.

Good girl.

In two words, he’s reduced me to a fucking puddle.

They’re the words I’ve ached to hear from someone—especially from either of the domineering male figures who have held prominent roles in my life—for as long as I can remember.

How are you feeling? Do you think you can stomach some food?

Not really, but I don’t want to miss an opportunity to see him again, even if just to redeem myself for last night.

Sure

Excellent. I’ll pick you up in an hour.

Excitement roars through me.

See you then.

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