Evelyn answers my FaceTime after only two rings. “Hola, prima.”
“Evie, why didn’t you remind me about your sister’s party weeks ago?” I groan, flopping onto my bed.
I can practically hear the smirk in her voice through the phone. “You know how my mom is, she’s been reminding me every five minutes, so I figured she was on your case too.”
“Quite the opposite, actually. My brain’s been fried, so I forgot.” I admit, rubbing my temples like it’ll get rid of my headache.
I can almost hear her casual laughter echoing in my head. She’s probably lounging on her couch, looking like she has it all figured out while I’m here scrambling for answers.
“Why didn’t you remind me?” I ask, a pout tugging at my lips even though she’s miles away.
“Well, maybe I didn’t want to think about it either.” Evelyn’s shoulders drop, her usual daring tone turning muted. I watch as her smile fades, the screen shifting slightly as she looks away. “I don’t think I’m going home for it.”
I sit up, my jaw dropping in surprise. “You’re not going? Evelyn, it’s your sister’squinceañera.” My hand goes to my forehead, like it might help me process what she just said.
“I know, I know.” Evelyn presses her lips into a firm line, her gaze drifting off the screen for a moment. “I just don’t have the energy to deal with my mom. Plus, to be honest, I’m struggling to find the time with this big research project on my hands.”
“I get it, I understand.” The words fall flat, the thought of spending a family party alone leaving a sinking feeling in my chest.
“I’m sorry, you know I would if I could… but I can’t.”
“It’s fine, Evie. I’ll be okay.”
“Why don’t you bring Serena? I’m sure she can make the drive too.”
Evelyn’s suggestion stops me mid-motion, my thoughts briefly stalling as I try to process it. The thought of inviting Serena is tempting, but the reality of her grilling me about Jared makes me uneasy. I’m not sure I’m ready to face that kind of FBI-level interrogation.
“I’ll be fine,” I finally say, trying to sound more confident than I feel. “I gotta go, I have to study.”
Evelyn gives me a soft smile, though it’s still tinged with uncertainty. “Yeah, I get it. Don’t let me keep you.”
But then, she hesitates, her voice lighter. “Hey, so I might be becoming a teacher’s assistant in one of my classes. The professor said he’s impressed with my work so far. It’s kind of crazy.”
My heart swells with pride, even though she sounds so casual about it. “That’s amazing, Evie. You’re killing it.” I can’t help but grin, hoping my words can relieve some of the pressure she’s under.
She pauses for a moment, and I see her smile widen through the screen. “Thanks, Alli. It feels good to hear that.”
“Of course. You’re gonna do great,” I reply, my voice full of the confidence I wish I could feel for myself.
We hang up, and I’m left alone with my thoughts. The quiet of my apartment feels almost too loud as I stand there. I toss my phone onto the couch and head to the kitchen, grabbing a glass of water to distract myself.
I set up camp at my coffee table, lost in my thoughts, scrolling aimlessly through my notes, when a knock on the door snaps me back to reality. It’s late, too late for anyone to be stopping by unannounced. I frown, hesitating momentarily before pushing myself off the couch.
“I hope it’s another accidental Domino’s delivery.” I say to myself.
I peek through the door’s peephole and instantly get puzzled by who’s there. Twisting the doorknob, I look over at Jared and say, “Hello?” with a confused smile.
He’s dressed casually, like he just threw on whatever was closest, but somehow, he still manages to look effortlessly put together. His brows raise as he carries a Domino’s pizza box high. “Pizza for your thoughts?”
I lean against the doorframe, folding my arms.“Just pizza? No lava cakes?”
Jared reveals another smaller box behind him. “Come on, I’m always prepared. So, can I come in?”
“Uh, yeah, sure.” I step aside, still trying to wrap my head around why he’s here. He walks in, taking in the cluttered living room before turning back to me.
I close the door behind me, walking slowly behind him with crossed arms over my chest.
Jared hesitates before speaking, his hand tugging at the sleeve of his jacket. “I know it’s late,” he says, his voice a little quieter. “Thought I could keep you company.”
