Page 57 of Take My Hand

MADDY

Hey Studley. Spoke to Dad and he said London is fine, but he has to have the address. Oh, and I have to call him every couple of hours. And believe me he isn’t joking xx

ZAK

That’s great news. Still laughing at my new nickname but I kind of like it ??. I’ll send you the address and make sure you call him regularly. What are you doing now? xx

MADDY

Just got lost in the depths of TikTok. Started watching pimple poppers and now on stray dogs. What about you?

ZAK

Thinking about earlier!!!

MADDY

Yeah, those burgers were awesome ??

ZAK

You know that’s not what I’m talking about. I wish I’d been able to take you home and finish what we’d started. I really need to get my own car.

MADDY

Or your own house!!

ZAK

Imagine if we were both at uni together. We could have sex wherever we want, whenever we want.

MADDY

… (Maddy is typing)

MADDY

… (Maddy is typing)

ZAK

You still there, babe?

MADDY

Yes, still here. Just got a text from Emma. Yep that sounds amazing. I should get some sleep. Dad just came to bed.

ZAK

Okay. See you at school in the morning. I’ll be the Studly McMuffin waiting by the gates xx

MADDY

Night night. See you in the morning Studly xx

ZAK

You still awake mate?

LIAM

Yeah, why? What have you done?

ZAK

How do you know I’ve done something? But I think I have!

LIAM

Tell me.

ZAK

I just mentioned to Mads about coming to Edinburgh. I think it freaked her out. Too forward? Too much? Too needy?

LIAM

??????????????

ZAK

Fuck! How do I take it back? Even though you know I’d love it if she came to Edinburgh with me

LIAM

Maybe don’t mention it again, mate. Let her bring it up. If she doesn’t go then you can always do the long distance thing.

ZAK

Yeah, I suppose so. Night mate. See you tomorrow.

LIAM

Yep later. Oh and I found us a party this weekend. Holly Smith is having a fancy dress party for her 18th.

ZAK

Excellent! Sounds good ????