Megan replied sheepishly,“2:00 a.m.”
“So, you randomly call me at 2:00 a.m. but you’re not sure why?”
Megan laughed. “It’s not 2:00 a.m. where you are.”
“That’s true.”
“I just felt likesaying hi.”
“Well, hi.”
“And congratulations, of course. I read the article yesterday, three times over, actually. It’s reallygreat, Ash.”
Ashley couldn’t help but think the abbreviation of her name sounded so much better coming from Megan’s lips.
“Thank you. I hope I didit justice.”
“You did, I knewyou would.”
Ashley sat on the black metal chair closest to the door. She felt arms suddenly wrap around her shoulders—it was Georgina.
“What are you doing out here?”
“I’ll be back inside in a minute, I’m just onthe phone.”
“Who to?” Georgina asked suspiciously.
“Just anold friend.”
“Okay, well hurry,I miss you.”
“I will.” Ashley watched Georgina walk away and then placed the phone back to her ear. “Sorryabout that.”
“Who was that?”
Ashley was hesitant, but saw no reason to lie.“Georgina.”
“The Georgina?”
“Yes.”
“Oh, are you two athing now?”
“Not really a thing as such. I don’t know, it’s hardto explain.”
“I’ll take that as a yes.” Megan chuckled.
“Well, I couldn’t wait around for you forever, could I?” Ashley joked.
“I guess not. Anyway, I will let you go back to your friends, you’re out celebrating. I shouldn’t have called.”
Ashley didn’t want the conversation to end. “You can call anytime you like.”
“That’s good to know, old friends really should keep in touch.” The emphasis put on‘old friends’was intentional—a jibe.
“Are youmocking me?”
“Not at all.” Ashley could sense Megan smiling through the phone. It easedthe tension.
