Page 65 of Fault Lines
She came back on the line, chipper. “Okay, where were we?”
“We kissed again,” I blurted.
She squealed loud enough that I had to hold the phone away from my ear.
“You and Nate? When?”
“Today. After lunch with Cam. He gave me my birthday present and I just… went with it.”
“You should go with it more often.”
“You’re not helping!”
She laughed. “I am! Cam’s out tonight, right?”
“As far as I know.”
“So? You have every right! It’s in the rules.”
“I hate it when you’re right.”
She just laughed, “See you tonight?”
“I’ll be there,” I said, and we hung up.
I barely went home before getting in the tub, the air thick with the scent of sweet pea. I’d loved that smell since I was little; it softened everything, even my nerves.
My phone pinged.
Jackson said you and Rachel are both on for tonight?
Sure thing.
I can’t wait. I’m going to order take out for everybody. Is Thai okay?
Sounds good to me. Thanks again for my new coffee machine. I’ve already christened it.
I sent a picture of the first latte I’d made. He replied right away, drooling emoji and all.
That looks fabulous! So glad you like your gift. You’re very welcome.
For a while, I just soaked in the quiet, staring at my knees poking out from the bubbles. Then my phone dinged again.
So, what are you up to?
I smiled, feeling like a high-schooler with a crush. I hesitated, then did something impulsive: I snapped a picture of my bare thighs half-hidden under the bath bubbles. Sent it before I could talk myself out of it.
Immediately regretted it, but the damage was done.
Minutes passed. I started to worry I’d crossed a line, but then—
Sorry about that. I had to run to the bathroom and take care of something really quick.
I almost laughed aloud, picturing him, the look on his face. It wasn’t even risqué, not compared to what Cam probably had coming into his phone. But it meant something, and for once I didn’t feel guilty. Nate would appreciate it.
It was Thursday, after all.
I finished my bath, changed into jeans and a cute, strappy top, then headed out.
