I hit him with a small throw pillow as we sit side by side on the couch.
He showered quickly before dinner, and he’s now wearing a long-sleeved navy henley and gray sweatpants.
While he was in the shower, I lined up every rom-com I’ve ever watched and prepared my pitch for each and every one of them.
So far, I’ve pleaded my case for six of them on three streaming services. And while I have yet to land on an option both Luke andI seem excited about, I do realize he hasn’t actually said “no” to any of my suggestions.
Just the usual grunts and shrugs that he reserves for the rest of our friend group.
I tap my phone to check the time. “Look, it’s almost midnight. If we don’t pick something soon, I’m going to be watching the inside of my eyelids instead.” I tap my phone one more time to make sure I haven’t missed any calls or messages.
Nothing.
“Oh, crap. Hold on.” Luke stands suddenly and makes his way to the front door. He flips up a switch that looks different from the rest of the light switches in the house, and my phone starts to buzz uncontrollably. “This place is a dead zone for cell signal, which was fine by me when I bought the place. But I figured it might be necessary to have access to the outside world when absolutely necessary, so I had a cell booster installed. I keep it off since I’m usually up here to be alone. Should have remembered to turn it on when we got home. But I guess I was, uh, distracted.”
I point in his direction. “Memory loss! It’s the only thing I’ve asked of you. And for a place to stay, I guess. And your hoodie. And to watchThe Parent Trap, but the most important one on that list right now is memory loss, Luke.”
“I’ll get us some water while you decide whether you want to tackle those messages tonight.”
Oh, right. That.
Between my cozy socks, soft hoodie and the comfy couch, I’ve almost forgotten that I imploded my life less than eight hours ago.
The power of self-care, I suppose.
I decide to bite the bullet and at least try to prioritize responses for the people that need them most.
Thank God Luke turned on the cell booster when he did, because it seems as though Nick was close to sending the National Guard our way.
I shoot him a quick text letting him know that I’m fine and should have regular phone service from here on out. But if I happen to lose signal, he should not send a small rescue team my way, since I am safe and sound.
He of course bombarded me with rapid fire responses, but Luisa’s “I’ll handle him, glad you’re safe and taking time for yourself” text seemed to have settled my dear older brother.
Next, I wince at the number of messages I’ve received from my father. It’s sad that he’s texted me more today than he has in the last two years.
FATHER:
Make sure not to wear too much makeup. There are many publications here, ready to cover the wedding story on their front pages.
FATHER:
The wedding planner cannot find you. Where have you taken off to? Now is not the time for theatrics, Daisy.
FATHER:
Are you still in the building?? The guests are becoming restless and it’s not polite to keep us waiting. Today isn’t all about you.
FATHER:
Answer your phone this instant. Where are you?
FATHER:
This is embarrassing. The priest had to tell the guests that his organist became ill and is currently looking for a replacement among his staff. We’ve bought you time, but now you need to get here and immediately apologize to Damien and his family for your tardiness.
FATHER:
This is unbecoming for our family, Daisy. We will have words when you finally decide to grace us with your presence.
