Page 155 of The Play Maker
MAISIE
I’ve read the same paragraph five times. I’m not even processing the words anymore. Not because I don’t get it. I do, I’ve got the concepts down, I already outlined the chapter last night, but my brain is done—tapped out. My eyes are dry, my wrist aches, and I’ve been sitting cross-legged on my bed for so long my legs are tingling.
I check the time. 8:42 PM.
My phone lights up a few seconds later and I glance down, smiling when I see Austin’s text.
Austin:
what are you doing?
Just seeing his name makes me smile. I roll onto my side and text him back.
Me:
Studying and trying not to die.
Austin:
come over. I’ll revive you with my lips.
Me:
Wow. Poetry.
Austin:
I contain multitudes babe.
also pizza.
Me:
Tempting, but I’m trying to be responsible.
Austin:
boooooring. come be irresponsible with me. we can make bad choices together.
I roll my eyes, but my stomach flips anyway. I’m literally drowning in notes, and all it takes is a few texts from him to make butterflies swarm in my belly.
Me:
Some of us actually want to pass our exams. Not all of us can get people to do what we want just by being hot.
Austin:
baby, you underestimate the power you have over me. You could tell me to jump off a cliff by batting those blue eyes and I would do it without a second thought.
also, is that you admitting I’m hot? bc if so, I’m framing this text.
Me:
You’re annoying.
Austin:
come over.
