“Yeah, don’t do it.”
We laughed at the memory, but then my sister turned serious again when she suggested, “Maybe send one text to test the waters. See if he’s actually listening this time.”
I stared at the phone in my lap for a moment. Then I opened my messages and typed out the shortest reply I could manage before I could overthink my decision.
Me
I saw the interview.
Adrenaline coursed through my veins when I hit send. “There, done.”
Avery grinned. “There she is. My feisty big sister.”
I let out a watery laugh and leaned my head on her shoulder. “I’m not feeling very feisty right now. Too terrified that this flicker of hope is going to burn me again.”
“Then we’ll set first to all his crap together.” She poked me in the side. “And we can go on the run to Connecticut, where we caneat cake until we feel better, while also avoiding being arrested for pesky stuff like arson.”
Hudson’s reply came through while I was laughing at her ridiculous response. Although my humor dried up when I caught a serious gleam in her eyes that made me wonder how far she’d go to protect me. “No setting stuff on fire.”
“Fine, be a spoil sport,” she teased, peering over my shoulder at my phone. “But do it while checking your texts. I’m just about dying of curiosity over here.”
“What if he sends something you shouldn’t see?”
“Eww, please don’t roll immediately into sexting.” Her nose scrunched. “Or do I guess, if that’s what you want. But I’m going to take this as my cue to give you some privacy.”
We weren't going to sext, but I kept it to myself because her reaction was too funny. “Love you, Aves.”
“I love you too.” She kissed my cheek and grabbed her backpack to head into the bedroom she’d claimed as her own.
When the door shut behind her, I finally opened my texts.
Hudson
I meant every word.
Before I could overthink it, I typed back.
Me
It’s going to take more than words, but I appreciate you doing something outside your comfort zone to set the record straight publicly.
Hudson
I know. I’m not asking for forgiveness yet. I need to earn it first.
I wanted to believe him. So much.
Me
I hate that Maddie betrayed your trust, but I’m glad she’s gone. I refuse to be sorry about that.
Hudson
You have nothing to be sorry for. None of this mess is on you. It’s all me.
Me
And Maddie.
