Chapter 4Let Go of the Final Result

Driven by pure instinct.

My heart did a tiny, pathetic flutter of hope.

I tapped into our direct messages.

[I thought about it, and I decided not to delete the account. What if I need your advice again someday?]

[Why didn't you accept the money?]

[Seriously, do not feel weird about it. We have known each other for so long, I consider you a real friend.]

Then there was a message sent just moments ago.

[Why haven't you logged on in days?]

[Are you there, Tiny? I have an emergency and I really need your help!]

Tiny was my screen name.

Staring at these messages, my mind uncontrollably pictured Asher saying these exact words right to my face.

I shook my head violently.

I forced myself to calm down.

Asher already had a girlfriend. It was time for me to let this go.

I shoved my phone under my pillow.

Rolled over and squeezed my eyes shut.

But sleep refused to come.

My phone buzzed again.

I debated with myself for a painfully long time before finally opening the chat thread.

[Why are you leaving me on read?]

[You are so cruel, Tiny.]

[I guess I have officially lost my best strategist. Sigh.]

My heart was hammering against my ribs. I took a deep breath.

I typed back.

[I was busy.]

[What happened?]

He replied in less than a second.

[Something amazing happened today, but I will tell you about it later.]

Then he paused for a minute.

[Here is the situation.]

[Her birthday is coming up. What do girls actually want for their birthdays?]

[I want to give her a massive surprise.]