Page 44 of Hello Heartbreaker

But when everyone was dropped off and I was back at my house, Maggie was still on my mind. I took a shower, trying to wash away the emptiness I felt without her, but lying in my bed, I still felt it.

I let out a sigh and picked up my phone. There were only a few text messages between us about the softball team. On my old flip phone from high school, there were thousands between us. Telling each other how much we loved each other, talking about our days, our dreams, everything.

Now, I didn’t even know full well how to say a simple hello. But I did my best.

Rhett: Hey Mags.

It was getting late, so I half expected her to be in bed already. I locked my phone screen, stretching to put my phone on the bedside table, when my text tone sounded.

Maggie: Shouldn’t you be in bed?

Rhett: I am.

Maggie: Me too.

A million thoughts ran through my mind that I knew I shouldn’t say out loud.

Fletcher’s words were at the forefront though.Give her time.

Rhett: I was wondering if I could take you fishing tomorrow?

The text bubble appeared, and I found myself holding my breath, hoping the best for her reply.

Maggie: I can’t. I’m going to the city to get beauty supplies, then having dinner with Dad.

Rhett: Next weekend?

Maggie: Don’t you have a rodeo to go to?

Rhett: On Saturday. I’m free all day Sunday.

Maggie: I have dinner with my dad again on Sunday. We agreed we’d do dinners at 5 every week.

Rhett: You copying me?

Maggie: Gah, more than your family can have dinner together.

Rhett: Just teasing. I’ll pick you up at ten? I’ll have sunscreen and food and fishing gear. We’ll be back in time for you to see your dad.

Maggie: Will you have chairs?

Rhett: Does that mean you’re in?

Maggie: Only if I don’t have to sit on the ground and hope a snake doesn’t bite me.

I smiled, ran my hands over my mouth because I should not be this excited about fishing in the middle of a hot summer day.

Rhett: I’ll bring chairs.

Maggie: Then I’ll be there.

Maggie: You know that means you’re spending every weekend for the rest of the month with me, right? Might get tired of me.

Rhett: I could never get tired of you.

Maggie: Good night, Rhett.

Rhett: Good night, baby girl.

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