Page 23

Dion emphasized the last word and beamed. All the boys laughed as they each performed the pimp roll in their own way. Their silliness and joy warmed me up and set me free. When they rapped again, I joined them and mimicked their moves. I felt less embarrassed and didn’t overthink the moves. I didn’t care how foolish I looked. After a while, I was sweating and realized we’d been rapping and pimp-rolling for about thirty minutes. This was one evening I’d never forget.

Wait until I tell Kaylee about the dentist rap.

Before I left, I thanked the boys for their time and made another appointment for next week. When I got home, I practiced again and again. Since my body was accustomed to the movements, I wanted my muscles to remember everything. Just like with kung fu, I could only get better with practice.

That session and a hot shower cleared my head. While I ate three fresh spring rolls and a papaya salad for dinner, I read all of Kaylee’s texts and loved all the pictures she took of the robotics projects from kids all over the nation. I replied to her messages and told her I loved and missed her.

While in bed, I logged into Heartstrings, wanting to talk to Bullseye. I shouldn’t, but I enjoyed chatting with him. Besides, we were only friends, and there was nothing wrong with talking to your friend, right?

Why don’t you text the girls?

I immediately shoved that thought away. I didn’t have the urge to chat with them tonight. It was already ten, and if he wasn’t online, I’d take that as a sign from the heavens. It meant God wanted me to go to sleep.

When I logged on, the active symbol glowed in his profile.

He was online. Joy burst within me, and I sent him a message.

Tulip:Hi.

Bullseye:Hi back.

Tulip:Why are you online?

That was a stupid question, but it was too late to delete it now.

Bullseye:Why are you? (smile emoji)

Tulip:Bored.

I didn’t want him to know I was looking for him.

Bullseye:Me too.

Was he lying too?

Tulip:I guess this app is perfect for people like us. Lol.

Bullseye:We need a life.

Tulip: Lol.

Bullseye:Did you get a lot of heart tugs today? I got five.

Jealousy stirred in me. I guess a lot of women wanted to talk to him.

I checked my page. No heart tugs.

Tulip:No. You’re my only friend.

Bullseye:You’re my only Tulip. (smile emoji)

Heat flushed my cheeks. He was probably referring to their profile pics, but I didn’t care. It had been a long time since I felt this giddiness.

Tulip:You must be a great catch.

Bullseye:Obviously. (wink emoji)

Tulip:So arrogant.