Page 95 of Notice Me, Jameson Hart
Ethan wants to know when you’re coming to the next practice. He wants to show you his new sketchbook. Kid thinks you’re the coolest.
Me
Even after witnessing that disaster?
Jameson
ESPECIALLY after that. He said, and I quote, “At least Kevin’s family shows actual emotions instead of pretending everything’s fine all the time.”
I stare at that text as something loosens in my chest. Then I type the question that’s been eating at me since we left the marina.
Me
Do you still want to be my boyfriend after seeing all of that?
The typing dots appear and disappear several times. My heart pounds as I wait.
Jameson
Kevin, yes. I still want to be your boyfriend. One family fight doesn’t change how I feel about you.
Me
But Robbie was furious. He even said he doesn’t want to be friends with you anymore.
I yelled at him when we got home. Now he’s locked me out of our room.
Jameson
When I tried to keep Ethan from finding out our parents were getting divorced, I thought I was protecting him. We share a room, too, and he built a literal wall of pillows down the middle.
Me
How did things get better?
Jameson
Time. And a lot of honest conversations. Brothers fight, Kevin. Especially when big changes happen.
It’s like you’ve been moving in sync for so long, and suddenly someone changes the rhythm. It takes time to find the new beat.
Me
Robbie said I think I’m the main character in a Broadway show.
Jameson
So what if you do? That’s one of my favorite things about you. You see life as beautiful and dramatic. Something worth celebrating. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about that.
Me
You have favorite things about me?
Jameson
So many. Want to hear some?
Me
