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I have Gavin.

The three dots appear, and then so does a picture of my brother sitting next to Preston with a goofy grin on his face.

Preston

A lot of help he is.

I laugh, then lean back to type out my reply.

Grace

He’s allowed an afternoon off. Be nice to him.

Preston

I am nice.

Grace

When you want to be.

Preston

I’m always nice.

Grace

Sure.

Preston

I’m reading these messages like you don’t believe me.

Grace

I do.

Preston

I’m not buying it.

Then the three dots appear as if he’s typing more.

They disappear.

They reappear.

What is he debating saying?

Nothing comes through, and I set the phone down to finish my lunch, but as soon as the chime goes off with an incoming message, I snatch it up in record time.

Preston

I could come home tonight and show you just how nice I could be. That’s your call.

My heart beats quicker.

Is this flirting?