The Other Side of Tomorrow

She lights up the world with every step she takes.

She’s special like that.

My phone buzzes, and I raise up to pull it from my back pocket.

Unknown Number: Hey, this is Willa right?

Willa: Um … yeah. Who is this?

Unknown Number: It’s Spencer.

Willa: Ohhhh.

Spencer: I got your number from your sister. I hope that’s okay.

Willa: Yeah, of course. I was worried a cereal killer got ahold of it or something.

A serial killer? Really, Willa? Get a grip.

Spencer: Sorry to disappoint you, but I’m not a cereal killer.

I blink. And blink again, then look back at the text I sent.

Willa: Auto correct hates me. You know what I meant.

Spencer: Yeah, I do.

Spencer: What are your plans this weekend? Would you want to go to the beach?

Willa: Well, I have plans with Harlow and my friend Meredith.

Spencer: Oh, well maybe some other time then.

I take a breath and decide to plunge headfirst into uncharted waters—uncharted for me, at least.

Willa: Why don’t you join us? I know they wouldn’t mind.

Spencer: Are you sure?

Willa: Yeah. It’ll be fun.

I feel good about this decision. Spencer seems cool and genuinely nice, he should get along great with Meredith. True, Meredith can be a little … well, Meredith, but I think he can handle her.

Spencer: Cool. I will then. Where should I meet you?

Willa: How about Cool Beans Saturday at 11? We usually stop there and then head to the beach.

Spencer: Sounds great. See you then.

I feel this funny fluttery feeling in my chest and I smile, biting down on my lip to try and hide it.

I feel … giddy.

It’s a strange feeling.

I don’t think I’ve looked forward to something in a long time but, suddenly, I’m ready for the weekend.

“Is he cute?” Meredith asks, wrapping her lips around her Oreo iced coffee—calling it coffee is a stretch, more like a heart attack waiting to happen.