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I’m tempted to say never mind, we’ll take one room after all. But I don't let my impulsive thoughts win.
We stand outside the two doors, staring at one another.
“Okay, I know were not supposed to sleep because of jet lag, but can we take a nap? I’m so tired.”
“Thank goodness, so am I,” he heaves out, relieved.
“Perfect, meet me in my room at what—like six o’clock for dinner?”
“Sounds good.”
The keycard takes a couple of tries, but now that I’m in my room, I realize just how exhausted I am. I was up at four, which is far too early to get up for a flight in my opinion. I couldn’t sleep on the plane, though I did try. I texted Maggie when we landed, but I didn’t look to see if she replied until now.
YAY! I can’t wait to see you and the infamous SEAN. BTW don’t be mad, but you might or might not be getting a phone call from Mabel…she found out you were coming to visit and wants to see you. LOVE YOU! 2:12pm
This isn’t anything unexpected. Maggie sees her everyday. I was just hoping that I could avoid it. Turns out I can’t.
◆◆◆
As I finish brushing the knots out of my hair, my phone rings from the bedroom. My gut tells me it’s Mabel, but for some reason I pick up the phone anyway.
“Billie?” Mabel asks, startled.
She clearly didn’t think I would answer.
“Mabel, hi.”
“Finally, I can reach you! I didn’t know you’d changed your number.”
“I got a new phone.” I swallow.
“I know what you must be thinking,” she snorts. “It’s weird that your ex-husband’s mother is calling you.”
“Not that it isn’t good to hear from you…but kind of.” I try to laugh, but it comes out sarcastic.
“We used to always speak on the phone. It just hasn’t felt the same without our chats. I wanted to check in on you.”
“That’s very sweet of you. I’m doing well.”
“I know this is super last minute, but I know you’re here in the city. A little birdie told me. Don’t be upset with Mags, I always pressure her to tell me what’s going on with you. I’d love to get together, but tonight is the only night I’m available.”
It’s so hard to say no to her. She’s too good a person to just blow off, no matter how strange it is. I grew up without a loving mother, but she was so giving and kind. She really took me in.
“You know that would be great, but I’m visiting Maggie and—” I wince as I speak. I hate disappointing her.
The joining door jiggles, and Sean steps into my room.
I instantly regret unlocking it for him earlier. I pull my finger to my lips in a hush motion, so she doesn’t hear him.
“Where are we going for dinner? I’m starving,” Sean asks loudly, no doubt trying to be funny.
“Who’s that?” Mabel asks, curiosity striking her voice.
I throw my hand against my forehead. Sean’s head tilts in confusion.
He doesn’t know how to take a hint.
“It’s my friend Sean…that’s what I was getting to. I have a friend with me, so…” I say, piercing my eyes at Sean, trying to give him the memo—Shut up!
