“I’d love to.” He drapes an arm around my shoulders and tucks me into his side.
Haydenand I talked the whole way to the airport, but after I checked in, we fell into silence. Now, as we stand together near the TSA line, awkwardness washes over me.
Needing something to do with my hands, I pull out my phone and check the time. “Well, I’d better go.”
“Take care, Ry.” He waves awkwardly, a strained smile on his face.
“You too.” I step closer and press my lips to his cheek. His scent slams into me, weakening my knees. “See you in a month.”
His lips spread wider, his smile more genuine. “See you.”
I leave without looking back. If I do, I’m afraid I won’t have the strength to get on the plane.
24
i made a mistake
HAYDEN
Lil’Ballerina:
Hudson misses his favorite uncle.
The next messagecontains a picture of my five-year-old nephew with the mini electric guitar I gave him last Christmas.
Me:
I miss him too.
With a long exhale, I rap my fingers over the steering wheel and consider sending a second message.
Me:
And I miss you.
She’s been in California for close to a month and a half. She’d planned to return two weeks ago, but when her dad had an emergency appendectomy and needed help, she extended the trip.
Since she’s been gone, a part of me has been missing. She doesn’t know I spend most days locked in my penthouse, ordering takeout and barely functioning. The only exceptions are the days I’m in the studio working on the album, or when I spend time with Santi andInes. I don’t want to worry her, just like I don’t want to worry Hunter and Piper. So, I put on a smile and power through the day.
Lil’Ballerina:
I think I broke something in you. You’re way too sappy with me.
Lil’Ballerina:
I miss you too.
Me:
When is your flight home?
Lil’Ballerina:
I haven’t decided yet. Once I buy a ticket, I’ll let you know.
Me:
Good. I’m off to Ines’. Talk later.
