Page 32 of Damaged Boys Don't Fall For Bubbly Girls

“Hey,” Dad warns. “What did you promise me?”

I hold up my hands. “Was just kidding.”

He chuckles. “Is it lame when kids your age are kissed by their parents?”

“Uh, yeah.”

“Hmm, too bad.” He bends forward and kisses the top of my head. Then he says, “Be brutal and honest, okay?”

“Yeah.”

He makes his way to the door, then spins around. “But not too brutal, yeah? It’s only a first draft.”

“Okay.”

He’s nearly out the door when he turns around again. “But don’t hold back, too. If something feels off—”

“Dad.”

His mouth snaps shut. “Right. I’m going to help your mom with dinner. Finish your homework.” He leaves.

I don’t have a chance to read Dad’s manuscript until after dinner. The food is awesome like usual. It brings me back to my childhood. I remember when Lexi was over for dinner one night and we had spaghetti and meatballs. We must have been nine and she got so excited when she learned what my mom made. Her smile was so infectious. It still is and it makes me feel warm inside whenever I think about it.

After dinner, I get comfortable on my bed with Dad’s book. But just as I’m about to start it, my phone dings with another text from Theo, telling me he finished the book and essay.

Brock: Was it so bad?

Theo: Yes.

I help him with the grammar, then prepare myself to start the first chapter. But I stop and reach for my phone.

Brock: Had spaghetti and meatballs for dinner tonight.

I send it to Lexi.

I stare at my phone. Why did I send her that text?

Lexi: Ooh! Yummy. You’re so lucky. I’m jealous.

Brock: We’ve got leftovers. Want me to bring you some for lunch tomorrow?

Lexi: Really?

Brock: Sure, why not?

Lexi: Okay, thanks.

Brock: Of course.

I want to tell her I’d do anything for her. Not only to make up for all the pain I caused her, but because she’sLexi. The girl who still means the world to me.

Chapter Twelve

Lexi

Art class…not my strongest subject. But I do love the fact that I can express myself and get out of my head for a bit.

Nate was supposed to share this class with me, but he decided last night to switch out for physics, per his parents’ request. So it seems like I’ll be all alone. Bummer.