Page 54

“I got my Shrek mask.” He pulls a green latex mask out of his book bag. Did I purposely chooseShrekbecause I knew the lead would need a mask that covers his face and gives him mask hair? No. Do I love that outcome anyway? Unequivocally, yes.

“It’s going to need some work,” he says, and pulls it over his head. I can’t help it—I start laughing.

“Um…wow.”

“Yeah. It’s a little big.” His laugh is muffled.

My smile turns to a frown. We can get away with covering his face, but his voice needs to be on full display. “Can you sing something to make sure I can hear you?”

“Sure.” He belts out the first few lines and I’m annoyed that it gives me goose bumps. He even nails the accent. But it’s definitely harder to hear him with the mask on.

“Do you think you could try cutting a bigger hole in themouth?” I ask him. “Otherwise you’re going toreallyhave to project, and I already know you’re doing that.”

He pulls the mask off and his hair flies everywhere with static. I try not to laugh again.

“That latex is hot too. I’m glad I don’t need to wear this for long. We’ll need another solution if we do the full musical in the spring.”

I zip up my book bag and head to the auditorium door, Paul following along. Outside, a cool breeze whips through my hair and I pull my sweater tighter around me. I tilt my head up to take in the maple leaves that are beginning to turn rust-orange. It’s not quite October yet, but I’m reminded of why I love this time of year. Crunching leaves, bright sunshine, and all the colorful sweaters I can wear.

“Fingers crossed we’ll be worried about spring musical logistics soon,” I say softly.

“I think it’ll happen.”

I turn to him, surprised. “Yeah?” I hesitate, but he seems genuine. “Thanks.”

“Of course. So, I noticed Nathan doesn’t stay for rehearsals.”

I bite back a sigh. Things were teetering on the edge of pleasant for a moment there, but then he had to keep talking.

“He has to work.”

“Right.” He speeds up to stay at my side. “I just wondered if, you know, maybe things weren’t working out so well.”

“Things are working out perfectly.”

“You don’t need to be defensive.”

I practically growl but force myself to take a breath. “I’mnot being defensive. I’m telling the truth. Nathan and I have a great time together. How are you and Lainey?”

“Perfect.”

There’s a moment of hesitation before he says it, but I’m not going to prod. There’s no need for us to know about each other’s relationships.

“Glad to hear it. Well, I’ve got to go to work. See you.”

“Hey. Riley?”

Despite my better judgment, I turn. “Yeah?”

“Do you want me to take you to work on rehearsal days? I have to go past the store anyway.”

I’m so surprised by the suggestion that it takes me a few moments to form a coherent thought. “I already have a ride. My parents pick me up when Nathan can’t drive me. And I shouldn’t be driving with my ex-boyfriend either way.”

He rocks back on his heels. “Right. Just wanted to help.”

“Well…thank you. But I’m good.”

He lingers, but thankfully Miss Sahni comes walking our way down the sidewalk.