Unsteady

by Peyton Corinne

“I think I was just hustled.” I can’t help but smile. “Hustle my favorite customer? I would never.”

“What is it today?” I ask, leaning over to study the latte’s foam art. “I think… a flower?” My father frowns. “It was supposed to be a heart.” “It looks like a big mushroom blob,” my mom says, her tone affectionate.

“All right, duly noted,” she says, reaching her hand into my pocket and grabbing my phone. She doesn’t ask, or say anything, but turns it to my face to unlock it. She texts herself the most recently used emoji, which is, unfortunately, a hockey stick. Her eyes dart to mine with a quick eye roll as if to say typical.

kotyonok.”

“I think I’m in love with her.” I hear Rhys tell Bennett, but his voice doesn’t lower even a notch. “And she won’t let me in.”