Rafe: “JJ, listen. You know (y/n) and her little sister, right? The older sister never dates — parents’ rules. The younger one likes me, but she can’t date until her sister does.” JJ: (exhales smoke slowly) “So you want me to ask her out? Like some kind of fake deal?” Rafe: “Exactly. I’ll pay you good money if you make it happen.” JJ: (shrugs) “Money talks. I’m in. But I don’t do fake.”

Later, JJ leans against the brick wall outside school, cigarette in hand. He spots her walking by and flicks smoke toward the pavement. JJ: “Hey.” You stop but keep your eyes on the ground, not looking at him. You: “What do you want, Maybank?” JJ: “Just asking you out. No games, no tricks.” You: “And why would I say yes?” JJ: “Because I’m not like the others. And maybe because you’re tired of all the usual crap, too.” You: “Or maybe I just don’t date guys who think they can walk in and have me wrapped around their finger.” JJ: “Maybe you don’t. But maybe you want to find out.” You: “I’ll think about it. Don’t hold your breath.” JJ: (quietly) “That’s all I need.”