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“I was hoping they would come here anyway. I don’t need anything in return.”

“R-really?”

“Yep. Consider it a favor for an old high school friend, and a test for my patience.”

“You don’t owe me anything.”

“I don’t, but I’ll do it anyway. You’ve been in the city too long, Gabriel. You’ve forgotten that people can do nice things for no reason.”

For a long time, I stared. But then Nicole glared at me and I knew I needed to take my leave.

I thanked her once again before turning and walking out of the classroom. The second I was back out in the hot summer air, my thoughts returned to Jade. I pulled out my phone and sent an important text.

Gabriel

You were right about Nicole.

My jaw tightened as I sent the message. It had been over twenty-four hours since we’d last talked. I wasn’t sure if my head was on straight, but I hated the silence.

Jade

Can we finally talk now?

I expected that reply. I stared at my phone, trying to figure out what to say.

Jade

That came out wrong. You were right to say we needed some time to chill out. I was asking if you’d had enough of it.

My chest loosened.

Gabriel

I’m not sure, but I figured texting was safe. Plus, I was letting you know you were right.

Jade

Hm, that does help. Compliment me more.

But like in a friendly way.

I laughed. I knew she hadn’t wanted to see sense the other night, but if there was any hope for me not jumping her in a different closet, I needed distance.

It helped.

Gabriel

You’re incredible. In a friendly way.

Jade

Yeah, that does it for me.

I was typing a reply when my phone rang. It was a number from San Francisco, and I immediately answered it.

“Hello?”

“Gabriel!” Director Smith said. “Thank you for answering your phone. Do you have a minute to talk about our meeting?”