Jodi would be different, I decided. I dialed her number, terrified she might answer.

“Hello.”

“May I speak to Jodi?” My voice cracked like I’d reentered puberty.

“She’s not home, nancy-boy.” said the coldest voice imaginable.

“I’m sorry. Do I know you?”

“Nope, I could just tell you’re a nancy-boy by your wimpy voice.”

“Tell her Jordan called?“

“I’ll deliver the message.”

I hung up, already feeling desperate. I’d hoped it wouldn’t come to this, but it was unavoidable now. I would have to wait by the phone until she called back. It’s amazing how many great offers you get when you’re waiting for someone to call.

“Do you wanna play some basketball?”

“We’re playing Ultimate Frisbee in the quad, up for it?”

“We’re going to see a movie, wanna go?”

“You’ve won the million dollar jackpot. All you have to do is come to the lottery office and pick up your check. Congratulations!”

No way! I thought. I can’t leave right now! Don’t you understand? Jodi might call. I could actually talk to her!