After the chaos in the group chat, I finally gathered the courage to text him privately. My fingers hovered over the keyboard before I typed.
Jay: "That translation thing was unnecessary. You embarrassed me."
Almost immediately, his reply came through.
Keifer: "Unnecessary? I think you secretly loved it."
Jay: "I did NOT."
I typed back quickly, my cheeks heating.
Keifer: "Sure, sure. You were laughing so hard I could hear it through the phone."
Jay: "Maybe I was laughing at your dramatic flair."
Keifer: "Dramatic? I'm a translator of ancient alien texts. That's pure skill, Jay. You should appreciate it."
I rolled my eyes, but I couldn't stop smiling.
Jay: "Fine. Maybe you're slightly impressive."
Keifer: "Slightly? Wow. You're stingy with compliments. I'll take it. And don't think I didn't notice that little grin of yours."
My stomach fluttered. He noticed.
Jay: "You're impossible, you know that?"
Keifer: "I know. But it's part of my charm. Admit it. You like it."
Jay: "Maybe I do a little."
Keifer: "A little? That's my cue to tease you more."
Jay: "Stop it."
Keifer: "Not until tomorrow. Speaking of which… are you ready for me to pick you up?"
Jay: "Yes. I'll be ready."
Keifer: "Good. I'll be there right on time. And I promise—no alien translations next time."
I blushed so hard I had to hide my face under my pillow.
Tomorrow he would be there.
Everything was about to change, and I could feel it in my chest.