the rush turned , picked up speed , and slid out of the harbor . i had to quit before i got any further because just in time he stopped . his hand snapped back as if i had cooties . the maneuver had probably saved his shoulder from being shattered ; the arm itself didnt fare as well . she did n't laugh or make fun of me , and i do n't think she ever told anyone i 'd asked her out . this time it worked , and she gave him a thumbs-up in answer . 