I hold it as far from my face as I can and still hear the receptionist at North Corp asking me “which extension?”“Dr. Connor’s office, please.” I wait while she promises to transfer me and the cheesy company-promo message begins to play. I would usually zone out during this part, but today I focus on the rich, female voice promising that “the work of today will be the hope of tomorrow,” and that “donations to North Corp are appreciated and go toward building a better, healthier future for all people, regardless of race, color, or creed.” Anything to get my mind off the fact that Jesse is shoved into the phone booth with me, his chest only inches from my face. His eyes scan the area outside for trouble. His lips press tight together, as if he’s trying to banish the memory of my kiss with pure pressure. Kiss. I had my first kiss, and it was … amazing. Better than I ever imagined. It revolutionized my entire view of boy-girl relations. If that’s what kissing feels like, no wonder Mina likes to do it so much.Mina, my best friend who is dead, who won’t kiss anyone ever again.
