Page 69 of Drive

“Don’t I know it!” I yelled as I got out of the car and she moved to stand on the other side of the hood. “I didn’t do it tohurtyou, Paige.”

“But look at us now, none of us talking. Nothing’s the same.”

“And that’s because of you!” I said as I slammed her car door. “I get that you didn’t want us together, and I see that you were looking out for me, but now you’re just damning us!”

“It’s a mistake, Stella.”

“Then it’s my mistake to make!”

She just shook her head and got back in the car. I stood stunned as she lost her cool and tore out of the parking lot.

It was going to be a long summer.

After my shift, I begged Leslie to use her office computer. Reid didn’t have internet, and that was a big problem. With all the upheaval, I hadn’t taken the time to find an internet café. My mouth dropped when I saw I had missed a few emails from Nate. My smile was instant. The first one was dated the day I had drenched his crotch with salsa.

Nate Butler

Subject: Decisions

2:32AM

Salutations post countless beers,

I find it amusing that you work at a place called The Plate Bar. Did those idiot owners even research the name? I’m sitting on a patio at my best friend’s place, staring at the city lights, and I’m wondering where you are. I swore I wouldn’t bother you after beer one, and then decided on a formal email after beer three. But I still can’t afford you. It’s sad, really. So, the countdown begins, Miss Emerson. And though it’s just a few short months away, I find myself wanting to make one last effort to persuade you to go out with me (for research purposes of course). I have two tickets for the Ritz this Saturday.

GET.IN.MY.TAHOE.

Nate Butler

Editor in Chief, Austin Speak

Sent via Blackberry

I threw my head back and then looked up the concert I’d already missed.

“DAMNITTOHELL!” It was Sheryl Crow.

Nate Butler

Subject: Courtesy

5:01PM

It is my understanding that a drunken man extended a concert invitation to you last night. And while I do not condone that sort of behavior, especially from a future employer to employee, I find it extremely rude that said invitation has not been acknowledged. Teamwork is key here at Austin Speak, Miss Emerson. I can only assume you take your position seriously and are against the feminist lyrics of Sheryl Crow. My apologies. Moving forward, I will refrain from extracurricular emails, but will settle for a second interview, in my office, by 6:00 p.m. today.

Nate Butler

Editor in Chief, Austin Speak

Sent via Blackberry

My laughter continued as I realized I’d missed not only the concert but also my second interview atAustin Speak. I had to hand it to him, he was determined. The last email came yesterday.

Nate Butler

Subject: Oversight

11:11AM