Watching SpongeBob with the family on Saturday night, because it’s Davy’s turn to pick what movie we watch. I pretended to complain with Harrison and Bette, but as you know, I secretly think this show is hilarious. And to be honest, Squidward reminds me a lot of myself.
I texted Maddie, by the way. I told her I was sorry again and asked if she wanted to meet up. She just texted back, “It’s cool,” and ignored the second part. She’s probably really busy. Every time I see her at school, she is leaving with a group of screaming, happy people on their way somewhere. I wonder if she heard about me and Stuart being, like, a real thing. Then again, I don’t know if Stuart is telling anyone about us, or, if he is, what he’s saying.
This makes me wonder.
Me: You working?
Stuart: Yeeessss what’s up?
Me: Am I your girlfriend?
Stuart: The title of your memoir will be “Sammie McCoy: Cutting to the Chase”
Stuart: Let’s talk about it in person. Later tonight when I get off?
I look over at Mom and Dad, Davy sprawled on their laps, Bette between Mom’s knees as she brushes her hair. I remember how sad Mom’s eyes were when she asked me to spend more time with them. I remember my NPC Task Force, and how I am trying to be less selfish.
Me: I can’t, I’m with my family tonight.
Stuart: Ah, ok. Tomorrow?
Me: Okay. But if you were to give a short answer now, what would it be?
I watch the screen. Stuart is typing. Shit. Maybe I pushed him too far. Why can’t I just be casual and cool and whatever? Because I’m not casual and cool and whatever, that’s why. And I have been waiting on him for two years. I don’t want to waste another minute. I put my phone under a throw pillow and decide to never check it again.
Squidward gets a bucket of water dumped on his head at the Krusty Krab.
SpongeBob tries to get the bucket off, and ends up pulling so hard he lodges it on Patrick’s head.
I check my phone.
Stuart: Short answer? Yes.