It takes a minute for me to realize what it is he's saying and a moment more for me to get over my surprise. The rest of what he says barely registers at all as I ask him, "Wait, are you saying you have a date?"

Honestly, it shouldn't be unfathomable by any means. And it's not, really. Carson's a good-looking guy and he's definitely smart and driven and confident. It's not difficult to imagine anyone finding that desirable. No, the shocking thing is that it seems like something he wants when, up until now, I sorta got the impression he was into minimal human contact. I've often wondered, even, if I'm his only friend and really only that by matter of default. And, until about two minutes ago, even that much was up for debate.

Part of me wonders if he's pulling my leg now, too.