Page 46 of Cross Check

But I need you to promise not to judge me.

@GrantEverett

I have no clue what this could be about, but I’m excited.

@AmeliaGreen

I cannot wait to touch down in DC tomorrow night so I can head to Pete’s Café the second they open for lunch on Wednesday.

This is your fault, by the way.

@GrantEverett

I’d say I’m sorry, but I’m never going to apologize for bringing goodness into your life, Amelia.

Want some company?

@AmeliaGreen

Yes, because I’m going to make you pay. You’re fueling this addiction, and you need to be held responsible.

@GrantEverett

My credit card is ready.

Also, unrelated, but did you hear about that football player who had his social media hacked? All his DMs and private conversations were leaked.

Made me think that we could move to texting so there’s an extra layer of security.

@AmeliaGreen

I did see that. It’s terrifying.

Texting sounds safer.

Not that we’re doing anything wrong. Just, you know, for peace of mind.

@GrantEverett

*Attachment: 1 Contact*

Here’s my number. I promise I’ll keep your information private and save you in my phone by your initials.

@AmeliaGreen

I appreciate that. I’ll text you when I’m ready to go on Wednesday.

@GrantEverett

Sounds good!

“What did you bring tonight?” Hudson peers over my shoulder. “Steamed broccoli?”

“Broccoli has a lot of fiber and important antioxidants.” I swipe a cracker from a plate on the kitchen island. “The restaurant also messed up my order, and I hate confrontation. I took the veggies and left.”

“I wish I was twenty-three and young again. You’ll appreciate confrontation one day.” He laughs and grabs a water bottle from Maverick’s fridge. “I have no problem telling someone my order is wrong.”

“Yeah, but you’re a nice guy. I’m afraid I’d forget how to speak and just stare at the hostess while I growled broccoli at her,” I say.