Page 42 of Coastal Runaway

As much as I resented her for that, I understand she needed to get out from under Sean Cavan’s thumb with a clean break.

I stood, my chair scraping against the floor loudly, “you have no idea what you’re talking about. Don’t act like you know a single thing about me, my life, or my plans. I didn’t need you when I was a child, and I don't need you now. This lunch is over.” I turned and stormed out of the club. My skin was on fire from the mix of whiskey and rage.

I started walking down the long winding driveway of the golf course, unsure of where to go. My adrenaline was flowing through my veins and I needed to calm down. Pulling out my phone, I sent a text that I hadn't in three years.

I need you.

Tig

Tell me where to go.

Keegan and I were standing at the edge of the Santa Monica pier, looking out over the ocean. I sent her my location and she picked me up in Baby Blue. When she asked me where I wanted to go I told her to just drive. We drove the Pacific Coast Highway and let the relaxing melody of Tame Impala fill the car. Eventually Keegan pulled into the pier parking lot and dragged me out here.

“This is where I go when I’m sad and need space,” she said, still not looking at me, “my mom used to take us here when we’d visit my dad in LA. I don’t remember it but I’ve seen the pictures. I like to watch the rides and think about what we would’ve looked like on them.”

“My dad thinks I’m a disappointment.” I blurted out.

“No offense, but I have always hated your dad,” she laughed.

Something about her laugh broke the tension that I was holding in my shoulders, “yeah, me too,” I confessed, glancing over at her.

“You’re not a disappointment, Luke,” she rested her hand on top of my arm as I leaned on the railing, “you’re one of the strongest people I have ever met. Anyone who doesn’t see how great you are doesn't deserve to be in your life.”

My heart melted from the impact of her words. I pushed away from the railing and looped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her in a hug; her head rested against my shoulder and her hands came up to my chest.

“Thanks for always being there when I need you, Tig.” I kissed her forehead and she sighed into my body.

Both of our phones went off; Keegan pulled hers out of her pocket.

Nolan changed the name of the “You’re All Paying For My Therapy, and Luke” chat to “Why am I alone in the house on a Friday Night? And Luke”

Nolan

Where is everyone?

I heard there’s a good party at sigma tonight.

Maeve

ooo frat boys, I’m in!

Aiden

Maeve, if you bring a frat boy into our house I will chase him around with a belt.

Maeve

That actually sounds so fun.

Aiden

Nolan

We pregame at 9 so get home losers.

Tig