How long can I go on like this? This pain, the constant state of missing him, is like a permanent fixture of my existence.
Lev settles on the sofa in the den with his book on constellations, headphones over his ears, humming softly under his breath as he turns a page. I take the couch across from him just as my phone buzzes in my hand. Mandy’s name flashes on the screen, and my stomach dips before I even read it. She’s probably already found out I’m not coming back to the diner, and I haven’t had a chance to tell her about my new job.
Mandy
Um, do you hate me or something?
Sloane
What? No, of course not.
Mandy
Then why in the hell did I just find out from MARK that you’re not working at the diner anymore? I mean, I thought as your BFF, I would at least receive this news from, you know, you? But what do I know…
Sloane
Don’t be dramatic. I still love you. It just happened so suddenly and I haven’t had time to tell you.
Mandy
What happened?
Sloane
I got another job.
Mandy
Okay, and that is?
If you tell me you have decided that climbing Kirill is your new permanent position, I MAY be able to forgive you. I will wait to see what you say before I decide.
Sloane
How generous of you. The job is with Kirill.
Mandy
Now we’re talking.
Sloane
I ran into Kirill and he was telling me how he needed a nanny for Lev and, well, I got the job.
Lying isn’t my proudest moment, but it’s not like I can tell her the truth.
Mandy
Holy. Shit. Wait, are you living with Mr. Russian Hottie? Or should I call him DILF? Nah, I think I prefer Russian Hottie. Has a better ring to it.
Sloane
Yeah, I’m living with Mr. Russian Hottie…
Mandy
OMG. Can I be you? Please?
