Chapter 10

Thank goodness I’m sitting in the shadows. I know I’m bright red. I’m the world’s worst blusher. Best blusher? Whichever, it has to be some kind of medical oddity. Skin shouldn’t be able to get the shade of a poppy in full bloom. It’s not natural.

Anyway, I’m not answering the question. “Pass.”

“You can’t pass.”

“You don’t make the rules.”

“I literally do.” It’s true. She does. She always has. She’s the shot caller. I go along.

“I couldn’t possibly choose. There’s no difference. Khaki pants. Dress shirt. Boring hair.”

Essie raises the eyebrow with the hoop. She must hear it in my voice—whatever it is that’s...