Chapter 17

“Don’t touch the hair.”

“How can we make out if I can’t touch your hair?”

“Don’t make fun of me.” Dougie reached for my hand. “Just say the wait will be worth it for you, like it would for me. Say you’re willing.”

It was another vow I couldn’t make, and I hated myself. “My father says we’re kids. We don’t even know.”

“That we’re gay or what love is?”

“Find someone else, Dougie.”

“I don’t want someone else. Fuck the promise. Forget it, Justy. Just fucking say you’ll come back to me.”

I felt Dougie’s grip tighten.

“Just say it, God damn it!”

“I can’t.” I pulled away.

“You’re not a fucking hero. You’re a chickenshit.”

“Don’t be mad.”

“Fuck you!”

“Dougie…”