Page 81 of Faking Forever
Tina had sent several texts last night, asking where Kenny was. Did she need help? Was she okay?
And then this morning, asking if Kenny had slept well. Did she feel better? Did she want to talk?
Her most recent message, sent just twenty minutes ago, flooded Kenny’s eyes with scalding tears:
Tina
I’m here if you need me. Please reach out anytime.
Kenny tapped out a quick reply, her vision so blurred she could barely make out the words on the screen.
I’m so sorry about last night. I hope I didn’t ruin your fun. I had a lovely time, I truly did. And I enjoyed meeting your friends. They made me feel so welcome. Please convey my sincerest apologies to them.
She sent that message before following up with another one a moment later:
Thank you for being there. It means a lot.
She didn’t want to go into too much detail. Not in text. But she was trying to communicate her feelings more openly. And if during the course of a physical conversation, Tina asked about last night, Kenny would try to explain.
There were a couple of messages from Smith as well.
Smith
I have your spare key. Used it to lock up. Wasn’t sure you were awake and aware enough to do it yourself.
Good call. Thanks. I was asleep before you were even out the door.
Smith
You spent the whole night on that awful sofa?
I was out like a light. I’m feeling it this morning though. Nothing that a hot shower and a couple of aspirin won’t cure.
Smith
Doctor, heal thyself.
Kenny smiled.
You’re always saying I shouldn’t.
Smith
Since there’s no blood or broken bones involved, I think it’s okay. Just this once.
Her smiled widened.
Glad youapprove
She wasn’t sure what to make of this light-hearted exchange. It felt a little flirty and she didn’t know if that was his intention.
He started typing something… but the flickering ellipsis disappearing completely as he apparently changed his mind.
Kenny stared at her screen for a moment, uncertainly nipping at her lower lip with her teeth.
I’ll be at MJ’s for brunch at 10.
Long pause. Typing. Pause. More typing.
