AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Aren’t we supposed to have coffee for the talking part?”
He laughs. “Your house. You get the coffee.”
I roll my eyes a little then head downstairs. I grab two cups of coffee with way too much creamer, just how Joel and I like it, and head back upstairs. I slide one into his hand and sit back down next to him. I take a long sip and let out anahh.
“Okay, I’m ready now.”
He smiles at me. “So, how did it happen?”
I laugh out loud. “Sounds more like you’re asking me how I lost my virginity.”
He rolls his eyes. “I already know about that.”
“Technically, youdon’t. You only know the bits and pieces you put together. But that’s not a particularly interesting story, anyway.”
He looks at me seriously. “What made you decide to tell them?”
I explain everything that happened from my date with Matt to telling my parents to Aaron waiting for me after.
“Wow.”
“Yeah. I didn’t realize how much it was hurting me to keep it in. Between the support group, telling my parents, and finally letting those emotions out, I feel better than I have in months.”
He smiles at me. “I’m glad. We’ve all been worried—Aaron more than anyone.”
“Yeah, I know. We talked more after I texted you last night.”
“What’s the deal with all that?”
I inhale deeply, then take a big gulp of my coffee. “Uh…”
“I know about your conversation on Saturday night.”
My eyes go wide. “You do?”
He nods. “Yeah, he walked in like a zombie afterward, still processing it all. I’m happy to say I was right. You werealwayshis first choice.”
I roll my eyes a little, but also smile. “Well, nothing is happening in that area…yet.”A girl can hope, right? “We’re enjoying feeling close again. This year has been rocky.”
He chuckles at that. “Understatement.” He sips his coffee and gives me a sly grin.
“You’re such a pain in the ass,” I say, giving his shoulder a shove. But then I look at him seriously. “Thank you for always showing up for me. These last few days I’ve been reminded of the true depth of our friendships. Just because we are always here for each other doesn’t mean we should take it for granted. I’m so thankful for all of you. I love you, buddy.”
He lets out a long sigh. “Don’t make me cry, okay? I love you, too. Come here.”
He pulls me into his arms and hugs me tightly.
I let out a long exhale as I pull away.
There’s a knock at the door and Sarah sticks her head in. “Hey.”
“Hey, baby. Wanna join us?” I ask.
She opens the door and steps in. “Uh, actually, Mom asked me to get you.”
My brow furrows and my chest tightens. “What’s wrong?”
“I don’t know… probably nothing, but Katie is here, too.”
