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I frown. “I think it’s important to give people the chance to get me. I don’t expect someone without depression to automatically understand everything I’ve been through.”
“Don’t you think it’d be easier to be with someone who does know?”
“I’m not going to hold out in the hopes of meeting a man who just so happens to have mental health issues like me.”
“Maybe you don’t have to hold out.” Drew pauses. “Maybe you already know someone like that.”
My lips part on a silent gasp. “Drew…”
“I was trying to wait until I got out of this place to tell you in person. I wanted to give you some time to get settled in your new house. I didn’t expect someone else to swoop in and beat me to it.”
My mind races. “I had no idea you were even into me like that. I… I thought we were friends.”
“Wearefriends. But somewhere along the line, I realized that I wanted more.” His voice lowers. “You’re beautiful, and smart, and kind. How could I not want more?”
“Did I lead you on? Did I give you the impression that I felt the same?”
“No, no. These feelings are my own. I guess I was just hoping that you’d realize how you felt about me during this time apart, and then we’d be together when I got out.”
My heart sinks. “I’m so sorry, but I don’t feel those kinds of feelings for you.”
“But you could. Maybe I could take you on a date, and we can see what happens. I’m just asking for a chance.”
“I can’t do that, Drew. I’m really sorry.”
He’s quiet on the other end of the line. “Is it the cop?”
“He’s part of it.” My feelings for James wouldn’t allow me to feel anything for anyone else, but I have to be honest with Drew so he doesn’t get a false sense of hope. “You’re my best friend. That’s all I want us to be.”
“It’s okay. It was a long shot anyway. Nobody wants to be with the crazy schizophrenic dude.”
“That’s not true. Don’t say that. And you’re not crazy. We’ll find you someone great when you get out. I’ll spend the summer helping you.”
“Don’t worry about me, Nix. Seriously, I’ll be fine.”
“Drew—”
“Hey, I’m gonna go, okay? Let me go with my tail between my legs and lick my wounds.”
“Please tell me we’re still friends.” My bottom lip trembles. “I don’t want to lose your friendship.”
“Of course, we’re still friends. Just promise me one thing.”
“Anything.”
“Promise you’ll put me in the book you’re writing and make me totally awesome.”
A smile spreads across my face. “Done.”
“Bye, Nix.”
“Bye.”
I drop my phone into my lap and replay each conversation I’ve ever had with Drew, trying to figure out why I didn’t pick up on any hints about his feelings for me.
I look down at Wilbur as I scratch behind his ears. “Oh, Wilbur. Life is so much simpler when you’re a dog.”
“Are you ready?”
