Page 63 of Holding Penalty

I didn’t give her a single sign of appreciation, but I still drank my coffee from that mug just about every morning that semester.

No wonder I’ve been on her shit list ever since. I was such a dick back then. It didn’t help that the next time I spoke with her, I was telling her to keep the volume down when she threw a party on that Friday night.

ME

No, I liked it. It’s a good mug

PIPER

Maybe that’s why you were such a jerk back then

PIPER

You had a crush on me but didn’t know how to process it since you’re an emotionally stunted athlete who spent too much time in all-male locker rooms

PIPER

But you treasured the first thing I ever gave you

My stomach clenches. Something about my wife’s little joke hits too close to home.

ME

No one could accuse you of having an inactive imagination

PIPER

It’s so cute that you still have it

ME

It’s just a mug

PIPER

Suuuuuurrree

Texting with my wife late at night after an away game … it’s a nice feeling. Cozy.

I’m hit with the urge to start a FaceTime call with her, but I think that might be a line it would be wiser not to blur. Disappointment pinches me as I decide to yield to my better judgment.

PIPER

Do you normally hear noises outside the house? At night?

I sit up, concern winding through me.

ME

What kind of noises?

I’m starting to wish I didn’t let Piper talk me into watching that true crime documentary with her the other night. Immediately, the worst possibilities rush into my mind, even though the noises Piper’s hearing could easily be the wind or some animal rustling around.

PIPER

I dunno, kinda sounds like something’s moving around outside the house … maybe I’m being paranoid

ME