“Case, what’s with all these snacks?”Sandy asks.“It’s likeyou’re traveling with a bunch of kids.”
“I’m drowning my sorrow in junk food, okay?Don’t judge me.”
“Well, at least you’re eating now.I thought I’d have toforce-feed you when I got here.”
“I’m glad you’re here, Sandy.”
We haven’t even gotten home from the airport yet, and I’mfeeling so much better already.I wish I hadn’t moved so far away from her.
“You need me.Where else would I be?”
“Thanks.Now be a good friend and pass me the chips.”
“How’s the ankle?”
“Better.I can put a little weight on it.You and I aregonna hit the bar tonight if you’re not too tired.”
“I’m good.Ready to see what this town has to offer.”
“Great!Oh, I can’t wait for you to see Daddy.He’s donelike a total one-eighty.That’s probably the best thing to come out of thismove.”
“And Ethan?”
Ethan is the sun, the moon, and the stars.Without him,my days and nights are cold, dark, and lonely.
“Ethan was great… while he lasted.”
“You’re still not gonna tell me what happened?”
“Nope.”
“I’m sure I’ll get to meet him, though, being a small townand all.”
“Probably.”I shrug.
I don’t know who I’m trying to fool with this nonchalantact.Sandy knows exactly how much I’m hurting.
“What about you?Please tell me there’s a hot guy waitingfor you to come home.I can live vicariously through you.”
“Oh, God, I wish!The prospects are grim, Case… horriblygrim.”
“Well, with all the hotties around here, who knows?Youmight find your Mr.Right.”
“Like you did?”
“Yeah, like I did.”
“What happened, Case?Why won’t you talk to me?”
“I… can’t.”
“Okay, but when you’re ready, I’m here.”
“Thanks.”
When we arrive home, Daddy rushes forward to hug Sandy.“Sandy,sweetheart!Good to see you.”
“Dad!Wow, you look amazing!”
