Page 19 of Penalty Shots

Keelan

You’re exactly the way I remember you in my dreams.

I do a double-take on my phone. I re-read the line a few times before I turn to him looking panicked and confused.

What the hell is he doing?

He points to his phone again, smiling. Another text comes through.

Keelan

It’s from Star Wars, Katarina.

Oh my god. He’s making a point. He must be. That he’s the kind of guy that can quote ThoreauandLucas.

Me

That don’t impress me much, Landry.

Keelan

Twain.

Shania. Not Mark.

I smirk at my phone.

Me

Fine, you’re the most well-rounded guy at this school. Is that what you want to hear, teacher’s pet?

Keelan

If I’m the teacher’s pet… what does that make you?

Me

Cinderella.

P.S. My mom is the only person who calls me Katarina. And that's because she doesn't care how I feel about it.

I watch the dots come on my screen. Then they disappear.

It's fine. We shouldn't be texting anyway—for so many reasons. Mainly, I refuse to be another number he can add to his ever-growing fan club.

My phone buzzes in my lap.

Keelan

Sorry to hear that. But you know she’s probably hard on you because she wants you to be the best.

My dad was the same way.

Was… not is.

Me

Yeah, well, maybe I don’t want to be the best. Maybe I just want to survive college and get on with my life.