“Always.” I don’t hesitate because it’s true. I’m safest when I’m with them.
She shakes her head and looks at her hands. “I want to trust your judgement about them, Harper, but I’m also worried things might go too far.”
I swallow. We’re in deep now. I’m in love with them. They have feelings for me. I don’t know how to reassure her when I’m not even sure if I’m safe or how far others will go to get back at them through me.
“David also asked me out on a date.” Mom’s words are quiet.
My eyes widen. “My teacher asked you out on a date? Can he do that?”
It’s her turn to shrug. “I don’t have work on Friday night. You’ll be at the football game and whatever party afterward. It might be nice to go out and reminisce about high school days.”
“You’re going on a date with my teacher?” My brain is practically exploding.
She chuckles and shakes her head as she looks at me. “At least it’s not five teachers.”
“You’re just not thinking big enough, Mom.” I smile, because she’s right. I also know she hasn’t dated in all this time since Dad’s been gone. Maybe this is just the beginning of her dating. Mr. Wick isn’t a bad guy. He did try to help me.
She laughs. “I don’t know how you handle all those boys.”
Her cheeks flame red and she holds up her hands. “Not like that. And also, please don’t tell me. I really don’t want to know.”
I laugh and stand. “Do you need to get an outfit for your date?”
Her eyes widen. “Oh god, I don’t have anything to wear. Guess we’ll get dinner out and do some shopping.”
“I’m in.” If my mom is going out, then she should do it right. Even if it is with my teacher. Besides, it’s not like she’ll keep dating him.
Nico
It’s late when I sneak out of my house and into Harper’s. We made sure to talk in the locker room to see if we could get anyone to bite on the hook. We’re not sure if anyone is aware we’re still sleeping over since Luke and Caden are both busy at home.
Caden came over earlier to watch the house until I could get there. I sit on the edge of Harper’s bed and open my phone.
Me:
I’m in
Caden:
K. I’m off
Text before you leave in the morning
Me:
Will do
Caden:
Enjoy your night
I will. Harper is curled up on her side, facing away from me. I always enjoy my time with Harper. I run my hand through my hair and set my phone on the nightstand next to hers.
Tonight was rough. My parents were arguing.
Mom knows Dad’s having an affair and he keeps denying it. He’s never home, but he claims he has to work late. It’s just the job. Both Mom and I know it’s bullshit. Hell, he probably realizes we know it’s bullshit.
I can’t do much except be there for her. He makes me so fucking angry and makes me feel impotent to do anything as I watch her struggle.
