The pillow felt a bit softer, and my bed felt a bit cozier with every second that passed. When Lyric finished her wellness check, I had every intention of revisiting the faraway place that I had in my dreams. I could sleep another few hours if she’d let me.
“You did, but you needed it. My brothers have invited us out to celebrate Luca’s homecoming,” she stated, standing against the door with her right hand clutching the edge.
“Maybe that’s something you guys want to celebrate among each other?” I wondered aloud.
“You’re a part of the crew, now, so you’re one of us by default. If you’re not there, he’s going to take it very personally.”
“It wouldn’t be the first time a man has taken something personally,” I reminded her with a shrug.
“Okay, maybe you have a point, but it’s too much testosterone when it’s just them and I. If you’re there, it’ll even the score. Even if it’s not to celebrate Luca’s homecoming, just come for me. We won’t be all night, either. I’ll have you back by eleven.”
“I’ve heard something like that before. Next thing you know, I’m hungover and praying for some shuteye.”
I stretched my limbs but refused to get up yet. The comfort I’d been laced with was hard to let go of. I wanted to lie in bed all day and night, but it didn’t seem like Lyric wanted to hear that.
“Right again, but this time I promise. I won’t even go past the two-drink limit. We’ll both keep it cute. Please.”
“Alright, Lyric. But if we’re out past eleven, you owe me.”
“Anything you want.”
“You’ll have to pick up the girls every day for a week straight.”
“I’d do that anyway, so it looks like midnight it is then.”
“Lyric.” I closed my eyes as I yawned again.
“Just kidding,” she rushed out.
“What time are we leaving?”
“Eight. And what about the girls?”
“My mom asked if she could keep them for a full week and have them back Sunday. I think I’ll go get them after work tomorrow, though.”
“No, you won’t, Ever. Let them stay. You haven’t had any time to yourself in six years. They can handle a week, and so can you.”
“I wish I had as much faith in myself as you, Lyric, but I don’t. When it comes to my children, everything is baby steps. Everything,” honestly, I admitted.
“It makes sense, Ever, but take this time. It’ll get easier.”
“I have nothing to wear. It’s really about time for me to grab a few decent pieces from the store, especially if you’re going to be dragging me out of the house every chance you get.”
I wouldn’t admit it, but I was happy to be dragged out of the house for once. Seeing Luca a second time in the same day was as close as I’d get to winning the lottery. Lyric didn’t have to convince me. When she mentioned his name, I knew I’d be in attendance.
“You definitely didn’t go through your entire overnight bag, huh?”
“No, I just picked up what was on top, really.”
“I know, because otherwise, you would’ve seen that there were three options. One of which you can wear tonight. The little black dress seems suiting. We’re going to Oat + Olive.”
“Never heard of it,” I shared with her, finally lifting the top half of my body from the bed. I missed the pillow the second my head left it.
“You’ll love it.”
“Sounds gorgeous. I’m sure I will.”
“If you need shoes, just holler or look in my closet. I have plenty, but the ones you wore last night match as well.”
