Page 19 (1/2)

I resignedto date, but I didn’t like it I didn’t have to like it, and I certainly didn’t want it having an impact on my academic life

My studies were mine alone No dad No annabes I wantedto keep quiet aboutwhat I kne to do: studymy own life reminded me of Jason, and I pulled out my phone to send hi to you

You just did

To tell you that I’ to you

So you’re mad?

I waited a beat No text ca, I heard it buzz again I pulled it back out to see that Jason had replied, Yes

I dropped it back in ot et over it, eventually I was on my way to the food court for lunch before ain: I won’t beout

I replied with a smiley face, then really put my phone away

The food court was set up like the ones at a mall Fast-food booths lined the outside walls, and tables, chairs, and couches covered the e fountain filled the area next to the h the center of the eating area Potted trees and foliage added to the atmosphere Doors to the side of the fountain led into the actual cafeteria for students with a et inside I had a rabbed an eht next the s It was out of the way, and I could see all the students outside

It was perfect

Plopping doith my salad, an apple, and a water, I pulled out my laptop I had an hour and a half beforeh a side door near me She ith a bunch of others, all of whouys wore pastel polo shirts over slielled and co up in a ether Claire and a few of the other girls wore dresses, while two others wore jeans and T-shirts Those two trailed behind, and I wondered if they were actually part of the group

When they all found a table, those two girls sat at the end Claire landed suy who looked like the leader He wasn’t the tallest, but he had theto hi their conversation

I could’ve called out or raised a hand, and she would’ve couy, she probably would’ve called me over to join the to seealone was too lonely, and sometimes--like now--it was a welco partner in crime"

REGULAR NICE GUY

LOGAN