Chapter 18
18
Tuesday, April 22nd
S tepping out of the shower, I towel off my hair, my mind replaying that kiss with Anna. I really want to kiss her again. My phone buzzes as I work some product into my hair, taking an extra step tonight to look good.
Anna Clark
So, what are we doing? I have no idea what to wear.
Chad Braun
We might get a little messy, so nothing fancy.
Anna Clark
How messy?
Chad Braun
Well … it depends …
Anna Clark
You could try writing full sentences.
Chuckling, I love it. I love her sass, the way she pushes back at me. It makes the banter so much fun.
Chad Braun
Wear jeans and a cute top you wouldn’t be upset about if it got stained.
Anna Clark
What are you saying?
I guess that could be read another way.
Chad Braun
Get your mind out of the gutter, little bunny.
I want to surprise her. I don’t want to tell her yet that we’re going to Main Street Makers Studio for a “sip, snack, and paint” event. She’ll love it—once she realizes.
Anna Clark
I thought you were taking me out to a nice dinner. Why are you telling me to wear jeans?
Chad Braun
You will have a nice dinner.
Anna Clark
Sus.
Gen Z. So young … I need to take this slow.
Anna Clark
How will I know who you are?
There are so many ways I could answer that.
Chad Braun
I’ll be the guy looking overly excited.
Anna Clark
What kind of car am I looking for?
Chad Braun
Patience.
I stare at my phone, smiling, but when I don’t see any bubbles, I move on with getting ready. She liked the henley last time, so I’ll wear my black one tonight with dark wash jeans and boots. Once I’m dressed, I step up into my truck and decide to text her.
Chad Braun
Be on the lookout for a truck. I’ll be there in a few minutes.
Anna Clark
Didn’t expect the Easter Bunny to drive a truck … I was thinking like a lime green Bug.
What to respond …
Chad Braun
No texting and driving, so I’m driving now.