Page 23 of Icebound

Nina

That sounded worse. You’re really not selling me on this proposition.

Well, damn. I slump toward the screen. Maybe I should let her go. After all the shit I pulled in my twenties, I’m not good enough for someone like her. Hell, she saves lives. What the fuck am I doing? Entertaining America?

Me

Alright. Thanks, anyway.

Nina

Really?

That’s it?

I thought hockey players didn’t give up easy?

Me

Yeah, but I’m not a dick. I won’t force you to go out with me… even though you are missing out. I’m a good time (;

I stare at the screen, bouncing my knee. If this doesn’t work, I’m out of ideas. There are dots, then nothing. Dots. Nothing. That happens ten more times before a text comes through.

Nina

What’s the proposition?

Me

Can we talk in person? (:

Nina

Fine. I’m curious. You can stop by. This better be one good proposition.

Me

Great! I know you said you don’t like surprises, so I’m warning you that I’ll be showing up for our ‘date’ with sunflowers tomorrow.

Nina

You remembered I don’t like surprises?

Me

I listened (:

Nina

Sunflowers aren’t in season…

Me

I’ll find a way. I can be pretty stubborn when I want to be (;

Nina

I’m realizing that. See you tomorrow