Me
Do you want to talk about it?
There’s a long pause. Then three dots appear, disappear, then appear again.
Landon
Not really. But maybe I should.
Me
I’m listening.
Landon
There was someone a long time ago who I thought was the one. You know? Like, I was going to build a life with her, then she just disappeared. Ghosted me and my brother with no explanation.
Me
That sounds rough.
Landon
It was. Is. I don’t know. It’s been five years and I’m still not over it.
Me
What happened?
Landon
That’s the thing I don’t actually know. We never talked about it. She just cut us out and ran. I’ve spent years wondering what I did wrong.
A twinge of sympathy hits me, mixed with confusion about why he’s telling me any of this.
Me
And now?
Landon
She’s back, and seeing her makes me realize I never actually moved on. I’ve just been pretending I did.
Me
Is that why you came on to me at the bar?
Landon
Partly. But also I’ve been thinking about you since the locker room. I think I might be using you to avoid dealing with my feelings for her.
I appreciate his honesty, but it still stings.
Me
So what are you saying?
Landon
