Page 33 of Fangirl

“Who cares if it’s virtual for now? Or even if it stays that way forever?” She shrugs, but there’s nothing careless about the way she looks at me. “If you’re happy, I’m happy. And who knows what the future holds? Maybe you’ll have your ‘classic romantic comedy moment’ after all." Shesmirks, nudging my foot under the table. “You deserve it, you know.”

A lump forms in my throat unexpectedly.

"You're right," I admit, exhaling a breath I didn’t realize I was holding.

And just like that, I let myself sink into my feelings for Eli without questioning them. I forget for a moment everything stacked against us—the distance, my autoimmune disease, my chronic shyness that only seems to disappear when there’s a screen between us.

But I play along, even for a few minutes. I play into this beautiful narrative, and who knows what I’ll end up manifesting in the end?

"Who knows what the future holds? Maybe, in time, our virtual connection will become something real, something tangible. And if it doesn’t, that’s okay too."

I meet Maya’s gaze, a small smile pulling at my lips. "Because right now? I’m happy. And that’s what truly matters."

She nods, conviction lacing her words. “Exactly. You deserve happiness, no matter what form it takes. And as your best friend, I’ll always be here to support you, no matter what.” She pauses, then grins. “I’ll probably tease you mercilessly along the way though.”

I laugh, squeezing her hand. "I’d expect nothing less."

And for the first time in weeks, I let myself believe that maybe, just maybe…this thing with Eli could be something real.

I let the thought grow, while Maya waves down the server for a refill.

“I wouldn’t worry too much about the boy.” She gestures lazily, and I watch as the bubbly gold liquid fills our glasses again.

I’m half a glass away from being sober to tipsy, and the thought makes me giggle.

Last time I was tipsy, it worked out pretty well for me.

I met Eli.

My Eli.

The thought almost sobers me up.

I swirl my drink, my heart picking up speed as I glance at her. “What do you mean?”

Maya leans her chin into her palm like she’s about to drop some life-changing wisdom. “He’s obviously totally into you too.”

My stomach flips.

“Ho—” I clear my throat. “Why do you say that?”

Without hesitation, she snatches my phone and scrolls through our most recent chat, her eyebrows lifting in smug amusement.

"That man spent over an hour helping you fix yourPersefiafanfic plot holes…” She looks up with a devious grin. “Sweetheart, the man is thinking with his peepee right now, and he hopes to meet Miss Vajayjay.”

I choke on air.

“You— I— This—” I splutter, completely at a loss for words, my face burning hotter than the sun.

Maya raises her glass in triumph, watching as I give up on coherent thought and down the rest of my drink in one go.

Because honestly?

There is no coming back from that.

CHAPTER 7

ELI