Page 86 of Finding New Dreams

I pulled out my phone as the opening scene played and my friends critiqued the awkward sex scene.

Rose: Hey, why didn’t you ever teach a class before? We all think you’re great at it.

Flynn: Hey…no dating app?

I frowned, confused for a second, then realized I’d texted his actual number instead of using the messaging system in the dating app.

Rose: Oops! My brain said “text Flynn” so I went to Flynn lol want me to switch?

Flynn: No, I like this :) To answer your question, I tried once in Cali. A local kids’ program was looking for volunteer teachers. But Ozzy said it wouldn’t go with my “brand.” Which is apparently “sexy playboy,” not “sweet do-gooder.”

Rose: No offense to Ozzy, but that’s a load of bull. You can be sweet and sexy. And everyone loves a hot guy with a big heart.

Flynn: Lol I’ll let him know. What are you up to?

Rose: Watching some bad sex and comparing experiences.

Flynn: …I think I may need to switch parties.

Rose: Haha no way! I don’t think you want to hear the inner workings of your sister’s sex life.

Flynn: After I go scrub that bit of TMI from my brain, I want you to tell me YOUR experiences.

Rose: Why?

Flynn: Research ;)

I laughed and hid my phone under a pillow like it was a dark chocolate raspberry bar I was trying to resist.

For a while, I watched the movie, munching on salty and sweet snacks. We talked through half the scenes—one of Gina’s other drunk tells. Normally, we weren’t allowed to talk unless we paused. Or we’d seen it a million times.

We joked and laughed so hard Sarah fell off the bed. While Chloe hauled her back up, I gave in to the burning desire to check my phone.

Flynn: Or you can keep your secrets. More for me to discover ;)

Flynn: Omg, Wyatt is quoting this whole movie.

Flynn: Nvm, Carter tried to gag him with popcorn.

Flynn: I forgot how good these movies are. But I can’t focus. I know you’re right down the hall and I can’t go to you.

Flynn: The guys are talking about their outfits for tomorrow. Can’t wait to see what you picked :)

Rose: I love my dress :) What’s your costume?

Flynn: Suspenders and a banana hammock.

Rose: FLYNN! Omg!!

Flynn: Jk. Unless you’re into that. Otherwise, you’ll just have to wait and see, like I have to :p

Rose: Can’t wait ;)

Heart thrumming a happy tune, I put my phone away again when Gina nudged me for a good part coming up.

A few minutes later, the bed vibrated, and I reached for my phone before realizing it was Gina’s lighting up.

Frowning, she tapped around on it. Her scowl grew darker and heavier until she growled and chucked her phone across the room. Fortunately, it landed in her open suitcase.

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