Page 23 of The Heart Shot

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I’m trying to help you, Jam-Jam. Now’s your chance to come woo her.

ME

I wasn’t aware that millennials still used the term “woo”

MAYA

[unamused GIF]

Are you going to come surprise her or not?

My fingers hovered over the screen, uncertain. Though Maya had good intentions, I didn’t want to bethatguy who showed up wherever Elsie went. I didn’t want her to think I was desperate, or a stalker.

MAYA

She won’t think you’re a stalker.

My brows rose at my cousin’s ability to read my mind from miles away.

MAYA

And even if she did, she’ll get over it once she gets to know you.

ME

Your confidence in this plan is astounding.

MAYA

Get your butt over to The Roasted Bean right now.

You can thank me later.

ME

Did you ever think I might be working?

Normal adults do have jobs you know.

My cousin was constantly changing jobs and working odd hours while she pushed toward making photography a career. It was easy for her to forget that most adults didn’t operate that way. We couldn’t do whatever we wanted at the drop of a hat.

MAYA

I happen to know that you aren’t at the clinic on Wednesday afternoon.

So, get your butt over here.

Dang it. This had my mom’s name all over it. She was the only one who could’ve told Maya my schedule. What was with the meddling women in my family?

I sighed, hanging my head, and my phone buzzed again.

MAYA

Get moving, cousin. Time’s wasting.

ME

You’re insufferable.

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