Page 155 of The Play Maker

MAISIE

I’ve read the same paragraph five times. I’m not even processing the words anymore. Not because I don’t get it. I do, I’ve got the concepts down, I already outlined the chapter last night, but my brain is done—tapped out. My eyes are dry, my wrist aches, and I’ve been sitting cross-legged on my bed for so long my legs are tingling.

I check the time. 8:42 PM.

My phone lights up a few seconds later and I glance down, smiling when I see Austin’s text.

Austin:

what are you doing?

Just seeing his name makes me smile. I roll onto my side and text him back.

Me:

Studying and trying not to die.

Austin:

come over. I’ll revive you with my lips.

Me:

Wow. Poetry.

Austin:

I contain multitudes babe.

also pizza.

Me:

Tempting, but I’m trying to be responsible.

Austin:

boooooring. come be irresponsible with me. we can make bad choices together.

I roll my eyes, but my stomach flips anyway. I’m literally drowning in notes, and all it takes is a few texts from him to make butterflies swarm in my belly.

Me:

Some of us actually want to pass our exams. Not all of us can get people to do what we want just by being hot.

Austin:

baby, you underestimate the power you have over me. You could tell me to jump off a cliff by batting those blue eyes and I would do it without a second thought.

also, is that you admitting I’m hot? bc if so, I’m framing this text.

Me:

You’re annoying.

Austin:

come over.