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I still do it.
Because I always do.
Because I need to.
Because it feels right?—
even when it’s not simple.
We reach the athletic building.
She pauses, looks up at me.
“Text me later?”
“Yeah.”
She smiles, then heads inside.
I watch her go.
And the second she disappears?—
my chest tightens.
Because the noise comes back.
Stella.
Always Stella.
I pull out my phone.
It’s me. You okay?
Send.
Nothing.
I start walking.
Where are you?
Send.
Nothing.
My jaw tightens.
Stell.
Still nothing.
I exhale.
Don’t make me call my dad’s PI. I will find you.
A beat.
