I was hoping, since we seemed to be on better terms, that he would give up on the wholebe a gamershtick. But he seems intent on keeping me off balance. An invite to the weight room? Telling me to come ready to work? He’s going to put me through one of his workouts—I’m sure of it.
So much for things getting easier. We used to lift together all the time, and Anton is a beast. I can hold my own, but it won’t be pretty. It’ll be sweaty.
My phone pings as I’m walking the halls, heading in what I hope is the direction of the River Foxes’ team weight room.
Poppy
Honey bears, I’m homeeeeeeee!
Noli
AH!
Rosie, quick. Hide all the evidence of the rager you threw at The Downer!
I snort.
Rose
Consider it done. Too bad I haven’t been able to patch that hole in the wall yet…
Poppy
Ha ha. Hilarious. I know you missed me. What’s new? What did I miss?
I tap outNothing, but before I can press send, Noli has somehow written and sent back a novel about our trip to California, including details about my freelance writing gig and meeting Anton.
Poppy
Serious FOMO over here.
Noli
And something beyond work is going on with Rosie and Anton Bates…
I scoff, but the tips of my ears are burning.
Poppy
Wait a dang minute. Rose! I told you not to fall madly in lovewhile I was gone.
Rose
Oh my gosh, Pops. I’m not in love with Anton Bates.
Noli
Lies.
Rose
You have no idea what you’re talking about.
Why am I sweating? I’m not even in the weight room yet.
Poppy
Girls’ night this weekend?
