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If I were to take a chance on Preston and it didn’t work out, would I risk losing my new friends? I mean, they were his friends first. I probably shouldn’t think of Preston in that way. I should keep looking. But really, what’s out there for me? I’m the girl that guys pretend to like when they’re with someone else. I’m the girl who gets used by shady guys who aren’t actually attracted to me. If I hear “you have a really pretty face, it’s just...” one more time…
My mom said to look for the guy who gives me peace. I guess I’ll just wait for that guy.
15. preston
Over My Head
I open my eyes,unsure of where I am, then remember I’m on the couch at Evan and Beth’s cottage. I’ve stayed in their guest room before, but it’s been turned into a nursery. Theo’s on the floor next to me. He stretches and looks up at me lazily.
My thoughts turn to Paige. Last night, she was all dressed up to go out, and I didn’t like it. Was she going out on a date? I have no business being in her business, but I can’t help it. I want to know what she’s doing. And I miss her, if I’m being honest. I feel like I am missing someone I have no right to miss. It’s hard when she’s friends with all my friends. All my friends who have their special someone, and I want that, too. But I don’t know how to make that work.
I shower and shave and get ready for my standing breakfast burrito date with Evelyn and Harry. I am relieved to find Janice at the front desk. “Morning, Janice. How are you?”
“Better now that you’re here. How are you?” she asks with a big smile.
“Can’t complain. How’s Evelyn? Has she been behaving?”
She snorts. “No, but what else is new?”
I shake my head and give a small laugh. “Thanks for taking good care of her. I always appreciate your kindness.”
“Of course. Get back there before the burritos get cold.” She nods toward the hall.
I look at her in confusion. “What burritos?”
She smiles knowingly at me, then looks back down at her computer.
I knock and open the door slowly. “Everyone decent?” I tease.
Evelyn looks at Harry and says, “I don’t know about this old man, but I’m all set.”
Harry laughs. “I’m always decent.”
Harry sets down the bird he’s whittling. Something’s familiar about that bird. Paige has several of these on her desk in various colors and types. They have to be his birds. But how does Paige know Harry?
Evelyn takes a deep breath, then looks at me hesitantly. “You don’t have to go, you know. It’s not right,” she says warmly, her eyes on mine.
I have shared my horror stories with Evelyn, as she’s shared hers with me. She doesn’t know my family, but she knows what I’m up against. She, more than anyone else, understands my struggle. “I know. But I’ll never hear the end of it if I don’t.” I feel defeated.
“Is this about the bad child?” Harry calls.
“Yeah, my brother,” I say. “He’s marrying my ex-girlfriend.”
Harry scoffs. “Go to the wedding and pee on the cake. All over it,” he motions with his hand as he eats his burrito.
I laugh, nearly choking on mine. I wipe my mouth. “Gross,” I say. “There will be no peeing on cakes, Harry.”
“What?” He shrugs. “They deserve it.”
“They’re all miserable,” Evelyn says. “They are living the life they deserve.”
“That they are. I’m thankful for you, Evelyn. I’m glad I have you.”
“You’re here where you belong, son. Don’t you forget that.” She shakes her head, her eyes sad. “You’re a kind and good boy.”
“Thanks,” I say quietly, reaching out and laying my hand on hers.
“I still think you should pee on the cake,” Harry offers.
