“I don’t know what to say, Lucie.”
“You’re welcome,” Lucie smirked, her good humor returning as she shifted into action mode. She picked up the duffel bag and raced around the small apartment, stuffing in clothing from the dresser drawers, toiletries from the bathroom and even Mr. Calabash, knowing how important he was. She was a whirlwind, inspiring Lily to stiffly get up.
Lily grabbed her go-bag, with the few photos that she couldn’t leave behind. Lucie appeared by her side.
“Time’s a-wasting. I wish I had plastic for you—” They both knew that Lucie was currently maxed out, and not carrying credit or debit cards to help curb her spending.
“It’s ok. It’s already more than enough.” Lily’s voice was shaking. “I’ll pay you back—”
“Whatever.” Lucie’s voice was gruff. Goodbyes were hard. “Let’s get you on the road.”
Lily allowed her friend to frog-march her to her POS car, a crappy Ford Fiesta from another decade, already with a billion miles on it when she got it to drive her mother back and forth to her chemo treatments.
They were silent, both fighting back tears as Lily slid behind the wheel.
“Bye, girl.” Lucie said, in a thick voice.
“Bye.” Lily whispered, and tears finally fell from Lucie’s eyes.
“Just go already, will ya?”
Lily nodded, turning on the ignition. And then she was off, knowing full well that Lucie was watching her, and would continue to do so until she was out of sight.
