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“Of course. John could use some help unloading.” Mabel looks to me, her wise eyes probably seeing more than I’d like her to. I’m shocked when she steps forward and gives me a quick squeeze. “Safe travels. Those boots look good on you.”
I smile and thank her, then go back to hugging my midsection.
Anger has faded, leaving a host of other emotions behind. I’m nervous now that he’s home. Here. Right in front of me.
“I’m so sorry. I fell asleep and—”
“It’s fine,” I say quickly. Allowing him to elaborate makes it seem like I’m entitled to an explanation. I’m not. “I’m just glad you’re…okay. Considered calling the police.” I try for humor and fall spectacularly short.
Kyle’s expression twists with fresh guilt. “Iamsorry. Especially about worrying you.”
“It’s fine,” I say again even though it feels anything but.
He exhales, glancing at the loaded car and then back to me. “You’re leaving?”
“Yeah. Label called.” I lift a shoulder, then let it drop. “I need to be back in the office today. Took a lot longer than I’d thought it would.”
“Must be a relief to be headed back home.”
Kyle studies me closely, like he’s testing my reaction to that statement.
I bite the inside of my cheek and nod.
He exhales, rubbing a hand against the back of his neck.
My phone vibrates in my pocket. I pull it out, glancing at the screen. A text from my mom, celebrating I’ll be home soon. I don’t reply, but I do note the time.
“I’ve gotta go. Or I’ll miss my flight.”
Kyle takes a step closer. “Look, Piper. I—”
I cut him off, “Did you change your mind?”
“What?”
“Did. You. Change. Your. Mind?”
His hand drops, and his jaw sets as he registers my meaning. Suddenly, our position feels less intimate and more like squaring off. It feels exactly like when we stood in this yard and he told me I should leave.
“No,” he finally answers.
“There’s nothing left to discuss then.”
He sucks in his bottom lip, nodding slowly and then looking down. The step he took is followed by one back. “I guess not.”
I wanted to create distance, but now that it’s there, I sort of regret it.
“If you’re ever in New York…” My voice trails off after I leave an open invitation. For what, I don’t really know.
“Unlikely,” Kyle says. Not in a rude way. Just…matter-of-fact. Resolved.
I nod, having expected that answer. “Right. Good luck with…everything.”
“Text me when you land, okay?”
Like you texted me last night?I think. I spent most of the night lying awake in his bed like a fool, waiting to hear his steps on the stairs.
I say, “Okay,” because it’s easier.
