Page 37 of Heavy

She leans back and grabs the second skin, thankfully without asking why I chose this design. Even I can’t fully explain why I went with it. It’s a silhouette of blue spruce trees, framed by a sky that’s alive with color: deep purples, reds, and oranges blending seamlessly upward into cooler blues and turquoise.

And I don’t care what she says—her favorite color is turquoise, not teal.

After paying, I’m outside resting against my bike, checking my missed texts. A few of them are from Ken, and I see one from Calista… I’ll check with my friend first.

KEN

I know you just got out and all, but could you help me out?

I wouldn’t ask if it weren’t important. This little shit screwed me over

I’ll get you what you need

I shift over to Calista’s text next.

Calista BG

I ordered pizza. It’s in the garage fridge. I’m going to the local bar for drinks with my friend, I have a DD

No invite, that’s rude

I don’t expect a response right away and move back over to my conversation with Ken.

What do you want me to do?

KEN

You know exactly what I need, big guy

I don’t, but I guess when do you need me?

KEN

Flirting with me, I like it

You free tonight?

My phone buzzes, and I shift over to Calista.

Calista BG

To just be rejected? No thanks

Can’t take a little bit of rejection, baby girl

Calista BG

Please stop calling me that…

I don’t think so. Ask me

Calista BG

No, fuck you

Don’t be brave behind a phone, Calista. Do it

Calista BG