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At the mention of R&R, I think of Layla. We haven't heard from her in a while again.
It's been a month since Dad last spoke to her. The other annoying and irritating thing is that she's answering his calls but not mine. That's infuriated me even more and pushed me to distance myself like I said I would. Even so, that hasn’t stopped me from caring.
“Not meaning to cast a downer on our excitement,” I state, “but have you heard from Layla?"
I direct the question at Dad. He sighs and shakes his head.
"Sorry, Luna. I've been calling, but she hasn't been picking up. I've decided to take a break and call her again in a week or so when I get back. I don't want to spoil the rapport we have going."
"No, that wouldn't be good."
Kimberly offers me a kind smile. "We're worried about her, too. I just hope she comes home soon. The only thing keeping me going is seeing that her Facebook page is active."
"Me too."
When I last checked, Layla had posted some more pictures of the beach and beautiful sunrises. I wanted to tell her about my own adventures with Hunter, but I didn't want to waste my breath.
Damn Layla. I still can’t wrap my head around her behavior. She really has abandoned me.
"She'll come back when she's ready." The lowliness in Dad’s voice breaks my heart, and I think of how worried he must be.
Layla is so wrong to do this to us, but what can any of us do?
"Typical Layla," I scuff.
“Something like that.”
"Let’s have dessert," Kimberly suggests, seeing that we need rescuing from the negative energy that’s come with the discussion of Layla. "I made my grandmother's famous apple pie."
“That sounds wonderful, sweetheart,” Dad replies, forcing a smile.
Kimberly stands and motions toward the kitchen. "I’ll be back in a sec."
When she saunters away, Dad takes my hand.
"I can see Layla's absence has really disturbed you. Please try not to worry about her.” That’s become the new mantra over the last few months. “This might sound harsh, but wherever Layla is, she's having fun. Don’t waste your time worrying about someone like that, even if she is your sister."
“I know, and I’ll try harder.”
"Good. Keep shining, principessa. It's an honor to see you blossom into the wonderful young woman you are." He brings my hand up to his mouth and kisses my knuckles, warming my heart.
"You're the best, Dad."
"I just want you to keep being happy.”
“I will."
He gives me another proud smile.
Kimberly returns with the pie and we enjoy it.
The evening wears on, and soon, it's time to head home.
Feeling drained, I step into the shower the moment I get in and allow the water to pour over me.
I've got it on a cool setting, so as it washes over my body, I savor the coolness seeping into my skin.
What I love even more is the warm hands that slip around my waist moments later.
