“She’s worried she’s more hassle than she’s worth, and chances are, she’s a bad person anyway. But she hopes no one else thinks that about her.”
“‘Cos it hurts her feelings,” Eliza finishes. “She’s scared you’ll realize she sucks and notliiiiikeher back.”
Raquel burps, her cheeks turning a smoothie shade of green. “The truthalwayscomes out when we mix alcohol and living organisms. It’s science. Also, do you have any pie?” She brings tired, glittering eyes up to mine. “Please? I really want some pie right now.”
ROUND THIRTY-EIGHT
OLLIE
A week after my sister’s flash visit, I walk the halls of the hospital in my ninth hour of twelve, counting down the seconds until it’s time to clock out and head home again. But the twelve aren’t so bad these days. Not when, every now and then, my phone pings and it’s Rose’s name that fills my screen.
ROSE - March 24. 3:05pm
I’m cooking dinner tonight. Don’t panic. It’s starting to offend me.
Does it cost you money every time I text? Or is this one of those unlimited calls and texts plans kinda things?
And does it get you in trouble when I text?
Because I can stop.
Smiling, I stop right where I am, halfway between two rooms, and type a response.
Me
Don’t stop. Twelve hours feels like a fuckin’ lifetime these days, but knowing you’re not so far away makes it a little easier to deal with.
If youhave dinner under control, then I trust you. But just FYI, for no reason at all, there’s a fire extinguisher in the pantry, bottom left side. Smoke alarms are tested annually.
If something goes bad, don’t worry about saving the house, just get out. Insurance will cover the rest.
Rose
Your trust is stifling. I’m blushing.
ROSE - March 31. 9:56am
I don’t want to sound forward or anything, but do you think I could get a key to your house?
I KNOW how that sounds! But I swear, it’s not because I’m officially moving in or taking over. I just kinda want to head into town sometimes, but that means I can’t get back in again until you’re home.
I promise, I’ll give the key back as soon as you ask for it. It can even live on a hook in a shared space in the house, and I’ll only grab it when I’m heading out. As soon as I’m back, I’ll put it back.
Me
Check on top of the drawers in your room.
You hardly spend time in there anymore, which means you probably haven’t seen it. But it’s there. I had it cut weeks ago.
Take it. Keep it. It’s yours.
ROSE - April 4, 12:17pm
I miss you.
That’s it. That’s all I wantedto say.
Your house is beautiful, Ollie. But only when you’re in it. The rest of the time, it’s cold and lonely and makes me want to stick myself with the fire poker.
