Page 105 of Fauxmance

I gave her a nod.

"I just don't want to see him get hurt again."

My brow contracted.Again?What did that—

Before I could voice the question, my phone buzzed in my pocket, and I looked down to see a new message. It was from Hayden.

"Excuse me," I said to Constance. "This will only take a moment."

She shooed me away. "Please, take your time."

Hayden:How's the tea going?

It was funny. Even with those few words, I knew he was worried.

Me:Awesome. Your grandma's really nice.

Hayden:Nice…?

Me:Yes! She's great—and she loves the heck out of you.

Hayden:Hopefully, she's not the only one.

I blinked.

Was he seriously flirting with me via text?

Me:Are you flirting with me?

Hayden:So what if I am? I'm your boyfriend.

After a moment, he sent a smiley-face emoji. I exhaled, rolling my eyes at myself. Stop reading into things, Magnolia.

Hayden:Cat got your tongue, girlfriend?

Two could play that game.

Me:No, I was just thinking about how much I miss you.

I waited a moment to see if he'd respond. And oh, he started a bunch of times, but he never actually sent a message. After a beat, I sent a row of smiley faces.

Hayden:Okay, okay, don't get all mushy on me. I was just checking to make sure you andGigi are good.

Me:That's actually sweet.

Hayden:I told you, Maggie. Best boyfriend ever. Remember?

I scoffed a laugh.

Me:How could I forget? And you're doing a pretty good job.

Hayden:You think?

Me:Definitely in my top 2.

Hayden:Ouch. That hurts Magnolia Wilhelmina.

I sent another smiley-face and a kissy one, too.

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