Page 25 of The Sandbar saga

"I love it. Thank you." She smiled into the empty room. "I never thought I'd have a phone of my own."

"I imagine you'll be texting and doing whatever it is young girls do when they have their nose stuck to their cell phones in no time." He chuckled. "I might even have to tell you to leave it in your dorm when we have our appointments, or you'll never talk to me."

She ducked her chin, even though he couldn't see her. "I'll talk to you."

"You better make that a promise and prove it tomorrow when I come up and see you."

"You're still coming?" She bounced on the bed. "I mean, I wasn't sure after seeing all the presents you sent. I thought...I wasn't...I hoped you would still come."

"I'll be there." He cleared his throat. "I have something important to tell you."

"You're not going to stop coming, are you?" She stilled, holding her breath.

"Of course not. You'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out."

"Will I like it?"

"What I have to share with you?" He hummed. "I believe so."

Warmth filled her. "I can't wait to see you."

The bell out in the hallway rang. She groaned. "I have to go. It's dinner time."

"Okay. I'll see you tomorrow on your birthday."

"I'm glad you're still coming, and thank you for everything. Bye." She waited until he said goodbye and then found the button to disconnect the call.

Straightening everything on her bed, she slid her phone in the pocket of her buttoned sweater and left the room. Entering the cafeteria, she remembered the bra she was wearing. She tossed her hair behind her back and straightened her shoulders.

She liked turning thirteen.