Page 29 of Text Me Baby One More Time

“Last chance, Denny,” he says quietly.

I close my eyes and exhale a steadying breath, trying to summon up some courage.

I vowed I’d never get caught up with Shep again, not when I know how damaging it can be.

But that was six years ago.

I’m a whole different person now. What if Shep is too? What if he’s not lying about changing?

And what if who we are now is better than who we were then?

“I’ll do it.”

He beams at me, the glow of victory spreading across his cheeks.

“Great. I’ll see you next Friday night.”

“For what?”

All too quickly, he reaches over the counter, plucks the pancake from the plate, and winks at me before taking a bite and heading toward the front door to leave…finally.

“Our first date,” he calls over his shoulder.

I groan. “How many events are there going to be, Shepard?”

“Five.”

“Five?!” I screech.

“Yep.” He pulls open the door. “Pick you up at seven. Wear something sexy.”

I chuck the spatula at his stupid grinning face and listen to him laugh the whole way down the hall.

What have I gotten myself into?

Six

Six years ago, September

Shepard:Are you at the nerd shop?

Denver:STOP CALLING IT A NERD SHOP!

Shepard:All I’m saying is my big brother is the biggest nerd I know and even he doesn’t hang out at comic book stores.

Shepard:So, yeah, YOU’RE A NERD.

Denver:THEY HAVE FREE WIFI!

Shepard:Uh huh. Sure.

Denver:God I hate you.

Shepard:Liar. I think you’re actually starting to look forward to my texts.

Denver:I’m really not.

Shepard:So many lies leaving that pretty mouth of yours.

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