Page 44 of Serenade Me

“There’s nothing to know, Jezzy. Remember? It’s all over.” I feel myself tip over, and I cuddle up with a pillow. In the fuzzy background, I hear Jez sigh and feel him gently pull my shoes off.

“I don’t know if this was a good idea, Anca.”

“It was. Thank you. I had a wonderful night. My big brother.” I sigh and a blanket is pulled over me.

“Okay, then. Good night, baby girl. You did good tonight.” He whispers and kisses me gently on the forehead.

“Marius is nice, isn’t he?” I say, slowly feeling my body grow heavy and light at once as I fight sleep.

“What?” Jez asks.

“I mean, Marius is nice, for offering to help. With my problem”

“Um, yeah. Yes, he is. Don’t forget to thank him.”

“I won’t. Night, Jezzy.”

“Night, Anca.”

I think I’m asleep even before he leaves the room.