Page 24 of Fangirl

The thought barely forms before my fingers betray me.

The unmistakable snap of a screenshot fills the room.

I freeze, then blush so hard I think I might combust.

Can I be more embarrassing? Apparently, yes. Because he laughs, his expression turning amused.

"Did you just take a screenshot?"

I want to die.

The universe, being the asshole it always is, has clearly taken this as a challenge to make things even worse.

My thumb hovers over the red disconnect button as a hot wave of embarrassment-induced sweat forms on my back.

Penis.

I inhale deeply.

“I may have mentioned you to my best friend, and she may have been the one who suggested this call.”

I shrug, playing it cool. And by cool, I mean on the verge of a panic attack.

“I think I owe her a picture.”

Henods, smirking. “Oh, it was the best friend’s idea?”

He tilts his head, considering.

“Tell her thank you and that I owe her a gift when we finally meet. And you know what?—”

The screenshot sound goes off again, this time from his end.

My mouth falls open.

“My best friend will probably want to see you too,” he adds smoothly.

“Oh no, not like that.” I groan, self-consciously adjusting my ponytail.

He grins. “You’re perfect.”

I freeze, and a slow warmth spreads through my chest. I’ve never been called perfect before. Well, that’s not technically true.

I’m always “perfect” for taking on extra projects at work. “Perfect” to do a favor for my parents.

But never like this. Never just for being… well,me.

His voice softens. “It’s good to see you, Amy. Really.”

The humor drops away, and something else takes its place. Something that might be kindness, maybe even longing.

I swallow. “Same here.” My voice comes out smaller than I intended. “I’m glad I listened to Maya.”

Right on cue, Pea jumps onto my lap, purring loudly as he rubs his face against my neck.

Eli leans closer to the screen, eyes lighting up.

“Ah, here he is. The Insta celebrity himself.”