Page 63 of Desserts for Stressed People

As a heart attack. I can quote first and second to the letter.

Nevaeh:

The third one sucks. #SméagolDeservedBetter

Shane:

Did I already mention how awesome you are?

I immediately tell him I’ll prepare a bucket of popcorn.The Lord of the Ringssaga is long as heck. Even if we’re watching only the first two, we’ll end up spending the entire afternoon texting.

That awareness makes me so happy, it’s pathetic.

* * *

Shane:

If you think about it, it’s crazy how good this movie is. When it came out, I was nine years old.

Nevaeh:

You’re right. Next movie marathon, we’re watching the Matrix trilogy.

Shane:

Sure. Then it’s my turn to choose? I say #MenInBlack

I chuckle,stretching my legs across the couch.Men in Blackis another one of my comfort movies. God, how I love that he gets it.

I’m about to text back when Alex sends me a message. Me, not Nevaeh. It says he’s having dinner at his friend Glenn’s house and asks if I want to join. It’s probably a lie—he knows I don’t get along with that guy and will say no to having dinner at his place. Also, I don’t think that’s ever happened before. I ignore him when I get another notification from Shane.

Shane:

I lied before. My weekend sucked. I’m glad you showed up.

His weekend sucked, and I’m pretty sure it’s my fault. My chest feels heavier, but I sigh and text back.

Nevaeh:

I’m sorry. Glad I could help.

Then, realizing that’s what a virtual friend would say, I type again.

Do you want to talk about it?

I expect him to say he thought there was this girl who liked him, but he found out she’s in a relationship, and I’m already cringing. How will I answer something like that? I don’t want to manipulate him, to cheat. I want him to give me a chance because I convinced him to, not because Nevaeh did.

Shane:

It’s not worth thinking about.

My throat closes up, but I won’t take it personally. I know he’s just angry, and in his position I’d probably feel the same way. Even so, my heart shrinks at the idea he might not want to hear me out. What will I do then?

Nevaeh:

Then don’t. Think about something else.

Shane: