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SECOND BEST
Is everything okay?
SECOND BEST
Stop screwing around and answer me.
His last text makes my entire chest ache.
SECOND BEST
Tell me what’s wrong and I’ll fix it.
I’m afraid not even Julian, the ultimate fixer, can repair the damage that’s been done to my career, self-esteem, and confidence.
But look at all the progress you’ve made.
Sure, I’ve improved somewhat thanks to therapy, meds, and taking on a new project with Julian, but the darkness is creeping back in, threatening to destroy all my hard work.
Having one bad day doesn’t discount ten good ones.
Then why do I feel like a failure for running away from my fears and drowning my sadness with alcohol?
Maybe because youarea failure, the toxic thought strikes out like a venomous cobra.
I hold my glass out for Henry. “Another one, please.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
Julian
Ipull my mom aside. “Have you seen Dahlia?”
She shakes her head. “Check with Rosa.”
“I already did.”
It’s been two hours since Dahlia took off to answer a phone call. I have tried my best to ignore the churning sensation in my gut, yet it has only grown stronger with time.
I message the family group chat again.
ME
Has anyone seen Dahlia?
LILY
Since the last time you asked five minutes ago? No.
LILY
Try Cisco’s tent?
I already did twice, along with all her other favorite local food stands. I’m about to reply, but then my phone buzzes from an unknown number.
“Dahlia?” I ask before the other person has a chance to speak.
“Nope.”
