We barely step inside when Sam’s dad asks him to help with something. Sam squeezes my hand and then walks off with his dad.
I’m left there standing alone and feeling empty. I glance down at my empty hand Sam was holding just a moment ago, before looking around the room again. I don’t see my parents or Liv and Talia.
Deciding I need a break before socializing, I slowly make my way upstairs.
I avoid glancing towards Ethan’s room as I make it up to the third floor. Once in my room, I kick off my shoes and lie face down on my bed.
***
Imust have fallen asleep because the next thing I know, the sun is starting to set. I turn from my stomach to my side and find Liv and Talia sitting on the floor of my room, quietly watching a show on Talia’s laptop, both with headphones in.
I watch them for a moment. They are sitting cross-legged on the floor. Talia is leaning toward Liv, with her arm behind Liv’s back, hand on the floor. Liv’s hand is on Talia’s thigh. They look so happy. They look like they’re in love. I love this for them.
“How long have I been out?” my voice croaks as I slowly sit up in bed.
“A couple of hours, babe,” Liv answers as she looks over at me, and Talia pauses whatever they’re watching.
“Where’s Sam? Where are my parents? What time is it?” Talia's lips turn up softly. I fight the urge to rub the sleep from my eyes, not wanting to smear more of my makeup.
“It’s just after 5:30,” Liv answers. “Sam went to his dad’s house about 30 minutes ago.”
I frown before Talia adds, “Sam was worried when he couldn’t find you and came up here to see you fast asleep. He didn’t want to disturb you. Your parents are downstairs on the porch drinking wine.”
I’m still in my dress, and I feel uncomfortable. I arch my back in a stretch and slowly climb out of bed, making my way over to my closet. I pull out some pajama pants and a black tank top to relax in.
“I’m going to go get some food and check on my parents. Are you staying here tonight?” I look at Liv and Talia as I speak.
“Yes. We plan to be obnoxious and force you to watch The Princess Bride with us.” Liv winks, and I smile at her. She knows her way into my heart.
I unlock my phone, about to message Same, when I see a message from him.
Hey, I didn't want to wake you but wanted you to know I'mthinking about you.
My dad and I will meet you at Ethan's place tomorrow. I wondered if you would get lunch with me Monday before you leave?
I'm sad I missed you. I'm sorry I fell asleep before you left. I would love to get lunch with you.
Please don't apologize. I know you needed the sleep. Let's make plans tomorrow.
See you tomorrow.
Thanks for today.
Always. See you tomorrow.
When I get downstairs, I see the food has all been cleared away, and Mom is cleaning some dishes. She’s changed into sweatpants and a sweatshirt, and her hair is twisted into a neat bun.
“Hey, Ma. Why don’t you go sit down, and I’ll finish these.”
“I’ve got these, but you should heat some food from the fridge. I know you didn’t eat.”
“That was a nice service,” I say as I rummage through the containers in the fridge, looking for something that sounds appetizing.
“It was lovely. I think Ethan would have liked it.” She sounds assured, but I can tell she’s getting choked up.
“Ma?” My voice is quiet as I contemplate how to ask the question burning through me.
“Yes, pretty girl?” Mom sets a dish into the dishwasher before turning around, giving me her attention.
