by J. H. Croix
When he reached his truck, he impulsively pulled his phone out and texted her. He was taking Ryan shopping tomorrow and for some inexplicable reason, he wanted her to go with them.
Hey, would you be up for a shopping trip for Ryan tomorrow?
He didn’t wait for her reply because she’d mentioned she was working in the restaurant tonight. He slipped his phone back in his pocket and headed over to pick up the promised pizza for Ryan and Cliff.
Later that night, Eli leaned into the couch cushions and sighed. Ryan had just gone up to bed after devouring most of the pizza. Eli figured Ryan would be asleep the second his head hit the pillow. He’d looked as exhausted as Eli felt. Long days on the water did that. Eli heard a faint buzz. He knew it must be his phone, but he figured he’d ignore it. Then, he realized Jessa might be replying to his text earlier. What little energy he had left propelled him off the couch to search for his phone. He found it on the counter by the refrigerator. Sure enough, Jessa’s name blinked on the screen. He swiped the screen to read her message.
Shopping for Ryan? Sounds interesting. I’d love to go! Where do we meet?
Eli quickly typed his reply.
How about I pick you up at the lodge around 10am?
Her answer was quick.
Perfect! I’ll meet you out front. Gotta go…busy here tonight.