Page 76 of A Little Crush
Dodger
Right. EX fake boyfriend. How could I forget?
Me
So, how are things with you and the band?
Dodger
Still on hiatus for now. Judge’s nephews are a painin the ass.
Me
That bad, huh?
I don’t know why I ask. We went to the same university together, and yes. His assessment is spot on. Jagger, Hawke, and Ford are menaces. They’re cocky, athletic, reckless. And okay, yeah, they’re good-looking and wealthy and charismatic when they want to be. But they also have no issue reminding the rest of the town that, as far as their father’s concerned, they’re closer to kings than regular people and should be treated as such. Or maybe that’s only their public persona, and they’re really gentlemen with big hearts and a penchant for community service in the form of fight nights, gambling, and underground deals. Who the hell knows? They don’t let anyone get close, especially not a Goody Two-shoes like me.
My phone buzzes with another text.
Dodger
You have no idea. Speaking of, I just got a text from Judge, but I’m glad things are going well and we’re on the same page. I’ll talk to you later, yeah?
Me
Of course. :) Thanks again for your help, and good luck with the nephews!
Dodger
Thanks, we’re gonna need it.
“Oo, who are Judge’s nephews?” my mom chimes in.
“Mom!” I tuck my phone to my chest, but she only laughs.
“I’m only asking.”
“You were reading over my shoulder,” I argue.
“Yes, yes, I was, and I don’t feel bad about it in the slightest.”
“Talk about an invasion of privacy?—”
“Are you going to answer my question or not?” she prods. “Who are Judge’s nephews?”
My eyes thin, but I answer her anyway. “Just some boys who are troublemakers.”
“Troublemakers, huh?”
“Yup,” I answer.
“Good.” She grins. “You could learn a thing or two from them.”
“Excuse me?” I elbow her playfully. “You know, most moms would love having a perfect daughter like me.”
“I do love having you,” she argues. “And you’re definitely pretty close to perfect. All I’m saying is, there’s nothing wrong with not taking life too seriously or making sure that every second is planned out. Some of the best things in life are the things you never expect. You really think I planned on sleeping with my boss when I worked for your dad?”
My nose scrunches. “Ew!”
