Page 31 of Checking Mr. Wrong

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What?

I can see you’re typing. The dots show up, you know someone is texting. But then it stops. Stops!?! Are you typing a message, then deleting it because it’s not perfect, then typing another one?

I throw my phone onto the couch and squeal, looking around the room. Yes, I squealed. I’ve seen this episode ofSnapped, she’s inside the house. Then it hits me, Cade manifested this. I look around, wondering if shecansee me.

How can you…

Fine. Yes. I was trying to find the right words to say that is kind of you.

I am nice…

I’ll see you tomorrow then.

Cool, see you then.

Not if I see you first.

Huh?

…

…

Stop it! You’re doing the three dots to me now!

Sorry. Had to.

She wants to play a game? I’ll get her.

Don’t forget, things like this make my OCD go off.

Oh my gosh, I am so sorry, Asher!

Kidding.

I hate you.

No, you don’t.

I do.

It’s a fine line between love and hate, Mabelfrom Maple Falls.

That nickname. I don’t know why it makes me smile, but it does. I’ve been using it to get under her skin, and so far, it’s working like a charm. I wait, watching the three dots on my phone screen. Come on, Mabel. What are you going to fire back with this time?

You’re ridiculous.

You’re stuck with me now.

This back-and-forth feels like a game, but it’s one I actually like playing.

For how long?

I pause, her question catching me off guard. Is she being serious? Or is this just another jab? I decide to keep it light.

Until you get sick of me.

The dots appear, then disappear. When her reply comes through, it’s quick.

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