Page 17 of Perfect Tragedy
Todd’s eyes fill with mirth and he points. Following his finger, I see Vanessa pressed up against the wall of what I heard was the pool house. There’s a guy talking to her, and he’s standing very close. She must like it because she’s got a smile on her face and I see her laugh from here.
“Who’s she talking to?”
“T-bone,” Todd says, referring to one of his teammates. “Good for him. He’s liked her for a while.”
“He has?” I ask, eyes wide with surprise. I’ve never heard anything about it which is surprising considering people at school can’t keep anything quiet.
He nods and smiles and his eyes crinkle in the corners. I’ve never noticed that before - it’s cute. He leans toward me, “Can I tell you a secret?” He may think he’s whispering, but he’s not.
“Sure.”
“I know someone else who has a crush.”
“Oh well, do tell.”
“You have to do something for me first.”
“What’s that?”
“Tell me your plans for the summer.”
“Like… what I’m doing?” I ask taken off guard.
“Yeah.”
“Well, I’m hoping to get a summer job. I’m hoping to save for college.”
“What else?”
“Um, normal stuff I guess. Taking care of the animals on our farm. Hanging out with V.”
“Wrong answer,” he smirks.
“What do you mean?”
“The correct answer is that you’re going to hang out with me.”
“Is that right?”
“Yep. That’s right. Do you want to know why?”
“Sure, why not? Tell me.”
“Becauseyouhave a crush onme.”
“Excuse me?” I ask with a surprised laugh.
“It’s true,” he shrugs
“Is it?”
“Yep.”
“You sound awfully confident, especially when I didn’t even know that about myself.”
“I am. And I know why you do.”
“Well, why stop now? Please continue,” I smile enjoying our banter.
