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“Yeah, but if you had chemistry, why not continue?”
“I don’t know. Neither of us mentioned anything about making plans again.”
She rolls her eyes up and shakes her head. “Here’s some unsolicited advice… When you find someone you gel with sexually, take advantage of the opportunity.”
“Okay.”
“Maeve.” My name is announced.
I jump from my chair. “Our order’s ready.”
Lucy also rises. “Let me help you.”
I grab the tray with the pizza and paper plates while she collects our drinks and napkins.
We place everything on the table, and Lucy adds a slice to a plate in front of me.
“Thank you,” I say, already picking it up for a bite.
“You’re welcome.” She takes one for herself, biting off the pointed end and humming as she chews. “This beats crackers, for sure.”
“Yeah, I love this place. They’ve got great prices too,” I say.
“That reminds me,” Lucy says, reaching into her front pocket. She slaps a twenty-dollar bill down on the table. “That’s for you.”
“No.” I shake my head. “I don’t want that.”
“Too bad. I want you to take it, and you’re going to.” She sticks her tongue out at me, and I laugh.
“Thank you.” I tuck the money into my purse.
“I remember what it was like being your age. I was always broke.”
I nod. “That sounds about right.”
“I don’t miss that part of being young. But I miss my perky boobs.” She glances down at her chest and shrugs. “Oh well, your brother doesn’t seem to mind.”
My nose wrinkles. “Ugh. I’m trying to eat here.”
She laughs. “I’m sorry.”
I arch an eyebrow in her direction. “I doubt that.”
We fall into silence as we work on devouring the small pizza.
When I’ve had enough, I brush the crumbs from my hands and take a sip of water.
Lucy blots her lips with a napkin and looks at me like she wants to say something.
“What? Do I have sauce on my chin or something?” I ask.
“No. I was thinking you should message James and make plans to get together again.”
“Nah, if he wants to see me, he’ll reach out. I’m not going to be the one to make contact again.”
“Why not? This isn’t the eighteen hundreds. There’s no shame in going after a guy you want.”
“I know, but I’m still leaving the ball in his court.” I can’t explain to Lucy or myself why I feel so strongly about it; I just do.