Chapter 23

Cherry Stems Group Chat

COLE:You guys aren’t going to believe this. Nothing I say could ever prepare you for the news you’re about to receive. Your lives are about to change.

RILEY:Ten bucks says it’s not a big deal

AVERY:I’m not taking that bet

HAILEY:I bet it’s even less of a big deal than you think

ABBY:I bet we could guess what it is. He just filled up his gas tank and the final total has the number sixty-nine in it.

JOSH:He got the last loaf of potato bread from the market.

RILEY:A vending machine accidentally dispensed TWO treats for him

ELENA:You’re finally getting that personality transplant

HAILEY: You managed to swoop your hair in the OTHER direction

AVERY:The anticipation is killing us, which is probably what he was going for. You’ve succeeded in your quest, Cole!

COLE: You’re all wrong, except Avery. I was just going to tell you all I love you but now you’ve ruined it.

AVERY: Love you too, man!

HAILEY:awww sweetness overload!

ABBY:I’m not crying, you’re crying!

ELENA:[green face emoji]