I press at the tears slipping past the edge of my dark frames and sniff. I can’t help looking back at the last few days and feeling like I am all over the place. Devastated, lost, angry, bemused, amused, hopeful, rebellious, and humbled beyond reason. I’m all of those and more. I’ve never wanted to ask, Why, God, why? but for real. Why is this happening?

The song ends, and I straighten. I’m tempted to start it over and play it again and again until I’m completely worn down, but eff that. Not today, Satan, or however that goes. I check the time. After eight. I blot my face, making sure my tears are clear. It’s a good thing I don’t wear makeup.

I jump up from the picnic table and brush off my overalls, pity party officially spent. Besides, I have an ice cream date with my new friend in fifteen minutes.

I’m walking up just as Micah is locking the front door from inside. He sees me and holds up a finger, which I take to mean he’ll meet me around front. He’s alone, and it’s a little nerve-racking. Duke was super easygoing, and I felt like we’d get along fine with our matching hair. He would have made it less awkward. I’m not unaware we both basically bullied Micah into taking me out. Not like he didn’t owe me, but Duke’s teasing certainly boosted my confidence. I’m not shy, but Micah’s grouchiness doesn’t exactly scream, “Press my buttons.”

On the other hand, something about him makes me want to poke. He’s sort of cute when he grumbles. It’s the eyebrows. They’re so frustrated.

“Sorry,” Micah says, jogging up from around the block. He’s walking an expensive-looking, mud-splattered, and well-loved bike. “There’re no alleys, so I had to go the long way.”

I slip my sunglasses on top of my head and smile. “No biggie. Which way to Frosty Deliciousness?”

“Frosty Snacks,” he says. “Though your name works, too.” He nods, his hands full. “Follow the sidewalk up the hill. It’s about a half-mile walk. Do you mind?”

“Not at all. It’s perfect out. Do you mind? You’re the one with the bike.”

“My house is on the way. I figured I would drop it off.”

“You live down here?” I take in the charming downtown area. It’s only a handful of blocks long, but with gorgeous views of Lake Superior and the harbor lining one side. “Lucky.”

He nods again, adjusting his helmet under his arm. I take it wordlessly, holding it. “Thanks. Yeah, off one of the side streets. I mean. My, uh, parents live in the house. I live by myself above the garage.”

My head falls back with a groan, as dramatic as can be. “I am so jealous. I might hate you.”