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“Sorry. I didn’t see—”
“No, it’s my fault—”
We each spoke at once then fell silent. A long, awkward moment elapsed as I searched his eyes. “Your mother looks well. I bet she’s so proud you’re valedictorian.”
He nodded, glancing away. “She’s been doing much better lately.”
“That’s good. I’m glad.”
“I need to get back to her.” He moved to leave but I gently touched his arm.
His eyes met mine. “What do you want, Darya?”
“To talk. It doesn’t feel right acting like strangers.”
Peter ran a hand through his hair. “I know, but I can’t be your friend. I’m not there yet.”
“Do you think you will be some day?” I asked hopefully.
He heaved a sigh as his focus wandered over me, taking me in. “Perhaps, but it’s going to take time.”
I swallowed thickly. “Okay, well, congratulations on graduating. Are you going to any parties?”
“Sophia’s parents are having a get together later. They invited me and Mum.”
“That’s great. I hope you have a good time.”
He nodded, giving me one last mournful look before he went. I stood there for a moment, watching him go. When I stepped back outside the school, I spotted him surrounded by a group of girls from our year. Being named valedictorian at St. Bastian’s was a big deal. It meant you were going to be somebody, and that was a big draw with the ladies. I had no business feeling sour, but I couldn’t help it. They ignored Peter for years and now suddenly they were interested. Then again, Peter could be aloof and unapproachable. Maybe some of them had always liked him but weren’t brave enough to break the ice.
I wasn’t much in the mood for a party but I put on a brave face for Grace’s sake. Her parents had put on a lovely spread and decorated the house with balloons and streamers.
Mum, Dad and Rebecca arrived, alongside some other friends of the family. There was my weapons teacher, Mr Roe and his wife, Allora, plus Rita, my aunt Delilah, and Granddad Martin. Lastly, there was Principal Wolf, who I did my best to avoid. Every time I saw him I was reminded of being in his office and getting told I wouldn’t graduate. I hated the feeling it gave me. The feeling of being a failure.
Needing some air, I wandered out into the back garden and sat down on a step. I enjoyed the quiet for a few minutes before a door opened above and someone stepped out onto the balcony that adjoined the upstairs study. I was sitting directly under the balcony, which meant whoever was up there couldn’t see me. I didn’t know who it was until I heard my sister say, “Congratulations, by the way. I don’t think I told you that yet.”
“Thanks,” Grace replied and my curiosity got the better of me. I twisted my neck to look up. They were standing side by side, resting their elbows on the railing as they peered out at the garden. “I didn’t want to have a party, especially since Darya wasn’t going to be graduating with me, but my parents insisted.”
“I’m sure Darya is fine with it,” Rebecca said. “She’s not the type to begrudge someone their own party just because she’s not having one.”
“It just feels weird. We’ve always done every together.”
“Well, life changes as we get older. Everyone has their own path to follow.”
“I guess you’re right.” A pause. “So, how have things been with Liberty?” Grace asked, and I could tell she was trying not to sound eager for information.
“Things are going great. I really like her,” Rebecca replied. “I probably have you to thank for it. You’re the one who encouraged me to start dating.”
“Yeah. Who would’ve guessed you’d find your soulmate on your very first try.” Okay, Grace, best keep some of that bitterness out of your tone.
Rebecca gave a soft laugh. “I’m not sure about soulmate, but we do get along very well. Perhaps with time—”
“You know I’m in love with you, right?” Grace blurted, cutting Rebecca off mid-sentence. I stilled, and though I was far below them I could feel my sister’s shock as though it were a physical thing.
“Grace, I’m not sure if—”
“You don’t have to say anything. I just needed you to know. I get that you’ll never feel the same way for me as I do for you, but at least now the secret is out and it might not eat away at me so much anymore.”
A long silence ensued. I knew I shouldn’t be eaves dropping but I was far too invested to leave.
“I should go,” Grace said and I looked up, seeing the moment when Rebecca placed her hand on Grace’s. My cousin stilled.
“You can’t just…” Rebecca trailed off, her voice breathy. “You can’t just drop a bombshell like that and leave, Grace.”
“Why not? I’m sure you already suspected I had a crush on you.”
