That means my entire future depends on Zoe.
Fuck.
Now I’ll have to deal with her problem. Because both of our problems have just been irrevocably bound together.
Chapter 12
Zoe
The thought of the next school year scares me. When Caleb is gone, and so are Tristan, Nick, and Reed. And you. If you’re gone, who can I talk to when everything gets too much for me with Charlotte again? I don’t want to go back to school without you.
—P
Caleb:
I’m fucked. I think I have a hardcore crush on Parker. That’s not normal! It really isn’t!
I have to smile when I read Caleb’s text. He sounds happier than he’s been in ages. He spent the last half hour telling me about his date with Parker in minute detail. It’s almost sweet. But only almost.
Zoe:
Yes, that’s normal! And it’s good! It really is! I’m so happy for you. But tell him that if he breaks your heart, I’ll beat him up.
Caleb:
Hahaha, sure. I should tell him that if worse comes to worst, my little sister will defend my honor.
Zoe:
Even small fists can hurt.
Caleb:
I know, especially yours. How are you? How was the first week?
My smile fades. My thumbs hover over the screen, but I can’t manage to answer. I can’t possibly tell him the truth. Not now. Caleb is finally happy again.
There’s no way I can tell him that Jase is my dance partner. And it would be even worse to tell him that the panic is back. And that it’s jeopardizing my place at the school, my studies, my dream. He would worry, and I don’t want that. I want him to enjoy his evening and his weekend.
He should be allowed to wear those rose-colored crush glasses alittle longer. The last year has been all about me and my problems. He deserves for it to finally be about him again.
Caleb:
Zoe, are you still there?
Zoe:
Yes, sorry. My neighbor just knocked on the door. I’m fine. It’s been a busy week, but everything’s good.
Caleb:
Did vacation get you out of shape?
Zoe:
Maybe a little. I have to go now. We’re going to see a movie. Have a nice evening, and remember to warn Parker for me.
Caleb:
