“Becoming more than pen pals?”

“Yes. Because I felt that kiss everywhere, Mel. Everywhere. That wasn’t a kiss between two friends.”

Melody speaks slowly then, choosing her words carefully. “I mean, I know it’s a weird thing to ask, but do you think you scared him away?”

I give her a hard look. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing! I just wonder if he thought maybe you were… making fun of him? Lying?”

I ignore that she just called me a liar, but my mouth still gapes in indignation. “Making fun of him? Why would you even say that?”

“Well, jeez, Grey. Look at him. He isn’t winning any beauty contests.”

My mouth falls open even wider, and the rash on my chest shoots up my neck at a breakneck pace, coloring my cheeks, nose, and forehead. My face is flaming hot, which I bet it looks spectacular against my light blonde hair. “Melody! What the hell. I think he’s gorgeous!”

“Well, yeah—you do. But you didn’t think he was so hot when he showed up at the house. You think he’s hot because you’re finally getting to know him. That’s why you think he’s attractive; he’s grown on you. Everyone else, erm, not so much.”

“You—that’s so mean.” I stand abruptly, knocking a cup of pens over with a curse. Tears threaten to spill out of the corners of my eyes. I wipe them away angrily. “Not all of us want just want to date pretty frat boys.”

Melody sighs, her eyes pleading with me. “I’m sorry. That’s not… this is coming out all wrong.”

My bottom lip trembles.

“Grey.” Melody stands. “You’re beautiful. And sweet. And funny. Of course everyone expects you to hook up with some GQ model. Not some… Not a busted-up rugby player from SMU. I’m just trying to be honest.”

“I do not like you right now.”

“Grey, you don’t even know this guy.”

“Yes I do.” I cross my arms and stare out the window into the yard, tuning her out. Softly, I whisper, “I know enough.”

To: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

From: grevkeller0143@state.edu

Subject: Please talk to me.

Calvin,

It’s been two days. Why are you shutting me out? I don’t understand. I don’t understand why you over reacted to the tweet, but I’m sorry if I embarrassed you in front of your friends. I called you sexy and I meant it. I wasn’t making fun of you—how could you THINK that??? I thought we were becoming friends. I miss you. I miss my friend. Grey

To: grevkeller0143@state.edu

From: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

Subject: I’m an ass.

You’re right. I overreacted. I don’t know how to explain it without sounding like a complete douchenozzle, so can we just forget about it? I feel like a tool. And since we’re friends and I’m being honest, this is exactly how I would treat you if you were a dude. I’d give you the silent treatment until I got over myself. So you should feel pretty good about that. – Cal

To: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

From: grevkeller0143@state.edu

Subject: Best Friends 4Eva

Cal,

Yes, I’ll forget about it, but… You know what, never mind—I’m just so relieved you emailed me back. I’ll keep this light hearted. After all, we hardly know each other. As for you treating me like one of your guy friends, well—I’m flattered. Kind of? Have you ever had a girl that’s a friend before? The distance between us certainly makes it easier to have that kind of relationship, yeah? I doubt I could manage to be friends friends if we were at the same school—if we were in the same town. Grey

To: grevkeller0143@state.edu

From: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

Subject: Huh?

Greyson, I’m not even sure what that’s supposed to mean.

To: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

From: grevkeller0143@state.edu

Subject: Seriously?

Read between the lines, Calvin. And why are you emailing me this? Wouldn’t it be easier to text? Grey.

To: grevkeller0143@state.edu

From: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

Subject: Still don’t have a clue. Sorry.

Grey. I’m not texting because I had already composed the email. And last time I checked, I was a guy—and one that gets concussions on a regular basis. You need to spell it out for me. - Cal

To: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

From: grevkeller0143@state.edu

Subject: Forget I said anything.

Cal,

I’m not in the mood to explain myself. Maybe some other time.

Cal: This is going to get ridiculous if we don’t talk.

Grey: What’s going to get ridiculous?

Cal: You know what? Never mind. I’m not playing games with you.

Grey: Time. Out. Why are you being so stubborn about this? I don’t know what flipped your switch, but you need to explain it. Answer me, Calvin.

Cal: You’re right. I’m sorry. You’re my friend, and it was an asshole thing to do, and I’m sorry.

Grey: I like you, Calvin. I think you’re sexy and handsome and funny. Accept it and move on. And stop being an ass.

Cal: Have you always been this bossy?

Grey: Yes.

Cal: I like it.

Grey: I know you do. Why do you think I’m acting so bossy?

To: grevkeller0143@state.edu

From: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

Subject: Not that kind of trim work

Greyson. Going home this weekend to help my dad do some landscaping. My mom gets all weird about having all the shrubs and flower beds weeded and cut down before it gets cold out, so… just wanted to let you know. My folks get pissed when I’m constantly checking my phone. Disrespectful and all that shit. – Cal

To: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu

From: grevkeller0143@state.edu

Subject: TWO WHOLE DAYS?

Calvin,

So what you’re saying is, you don’t want me to feel bad when you’re MIA for a few days? Aww, that’s sweet. Very considerate to let me know. I will admit that I have gotten used to talking with you during the day. Well, not “talking,” but you get my point. Does your sister have to partake in this landscaping torture, too?

Grey

To: grevkeller0143@state.edu

From: cal.thompson04@smu.il.edu