Trying to Live With the Dead (The Veil Diaries #1)

by B.L. Brunnemer

“Yeah.” I turned back to putting my gym clothes and sneakers into the locker, planning to come back before gym. “Is that your real hair color?” I sighed. I hated that question, but at least he wasn’t asking if the carpet matched the drapes. I closed my locker before turning back to him as I pulled out my schedule and map. He stuffed a book into his backpack before leaning over toward me. “’Cause mine's not,” he stage-whispered. This time I did smile. “Yeah, it’s my natural hair color,” I answered, running my eyes over his hair. “I kind of like yours, though.” He waved his hand as he closed his locker. “It’s not done yet, I’m adding in some darker blue streaks.” He shrugged on his book bag, a lazy smile still on his face. “I’m going for a Cookie Monster thing.” “I’m going to call you Cookie Monster from now on, you realize that, right?” I gave him my smartass smile. Impish, my dad had once called it. His face lit up with a big smile. “Hey, I like that.” He snapped his fingers and pointed at me. “But I get to call you Red. Deal?” “Deal.” I waited for a beat before adding. “That’s way better than Pippi Longstocking.” His eyes went wide as he opened his mouth. “Too late, you only get one.” I chuckled as his face fell with disappointment. “Ugh... fine.” A loud bell rang through the halls. “That’s the first bell,” he announced, walking backward down the hallway. “I’ll see ya later, Red.” He turned and hurried down the hall before I could say anything.

LMAO🤣