I can’t help but think it would. If I truly let myself want him, all the small things would feel big.
My phone buzzes.
You are currently on a date. You now have the option to choose to stick with your date or pick a new one. If you and your date choose to stay, you may continue your night. However, if you choose to stay but your date doesn’t, you have to head back to the house.
They really take this show seriously.
I’m not a terrible person, I came here with Rhys and I’m going to end my night with him. It’s only natural for me to do that.
But right when I’m about to head back into the orchestra, I get another message.
Your date has chosen someone else.
Please head back to the house without saying goodbye.
Consider this bucket-list item a complete fail.
And a reminder of all men being liars.
Shutting the room door behind me, my phone beeps.
Rosa
Tell me why I come home after a long week to see you on my TV?
She sends a picture of my first interview.Crap.
Please don’t tell Ate.
Incoming call – Rosa
“Before you get mad, please know that it’s not what you think.”
She scoffs. “Nova, if you don’t explain what’s going on right now I’m assuming the actual worst and telling Nadineandour parents.”
“You’re supposed to be the chill sister.”
“You’re forgetting that I’m also your older sister.” She moves around, presses a button, slumps down. “Just because I’m chill andunderstanding, doesn’t mean I won’t act like a responsible adult when I have to. Tell me why you’re on a dating show?”
Should I lie or tell her the truth?
“I need the money.”
Leaning back against the headboard, I stare at the camera in the corner.
“Money for what?” She sounds genuinely confused. “You have a good paying job, unless this is some kind of new hobby you’re trying out.”
“No,” I say. Working to find the words, racking my brain, I don’t know. Anything. Nothing makes sense. “Do you remember Ms. Cartwright?”
“Don’t change the topic,” she sternly says.
“Can you wait? This is related.”
“Fine. And yes, I remember her.”
Blowing out a breath, I tell her the truth.
Rosa remains silent. Processing. Thinking.
