Chapter Seven:

Layla leads me out of the garage, up to the front door, and into the house. Once I've taken off my coat, I reach out and take Layla's jacket from her. I smile at the eye roll she gives me.

"There are hangers in the closet there, John. Thank you."

The entryway of the house has dozens of photos of what I assume to be Layla's family. Hannah's examining them, and I see her go completely still.

It looks like a prom photo, probably of Layla's parents - does Hannah know them?

There's a minor quiver in Hannah's voice when she says. "I need to go check a few things, John. Don't trust Layla's parents." And then Hannah wanders off before I can even try to stop her.

I don't think I'm in any danger. I'm not Deliah, but I have goosebumps. Hannah leaving me alone wasn't the plan, but something spooked Hannah.

That’s fine, though; Hannah can warn me if there's anything I need to worry about. It still feels like I'm playing a game without the instructions, though.

"Mom, Dad, we're here."

"We're in the lounge, Moonlight." A woman's voice says.

"Don't." Layla hisses at me before I can do anything more than grin. I guess Payton wasn't the only one with a secret nickname.

"I wouldn't dream of it."

The lounge is massive. There are several sofas and a few armchairs arranged around a fireplace that I doubt is ever used. It looks too clean, even from back here. None of that really matters; it's the people sitting there: Layla's parents. They’re on different sofas. I wonder why?

Her Dad is pretty unremarkable. There are hints of silver in his temples, and he's dressed nicely. Her mom is wearing a cocktail dress the same colour as my shirt, and she basically looks like an older copy of Layla.

They're both looking me over, and I think there's a hint of a smile from Layla's mom before she says.

"You must be, John."

"Good evening, Mr and Mrs Peters, and yes, I'm John Moore."

"My, aren't you polite." Mrs Peters says while gesturing to one of the sofas. "Please have a seat."

'Thank you, Ma'am, and for the invitation." 

Layla follows me to the sofa and sits a chaste distance away from me. Then, her Dad speaks for the first time. "Are you on any of the teams, John?"

"Traditionally, no, Layla recently recruited me for the cheerleading team, however."

Yay, sport. The girls haven't dragged me to a practice yet or given me a uniform. I'm honestly glad about that. I kind of like being on the team but not actually participating.

"Absolutely. John hasn't had a practice yet, but I snatched him up before someone else did."

Well, so much for that. Layla explicitly mentioned practice; I'm probably doomed —that's a future John's problem.

"In high demand, is he?" Layla's Mom says.

"Well, you know, good-looking and smart. John is tutoring Kristy and Caroline in history and joining us for lunch. People are interested. A lot of people are talking about him. Even Sonia made sure to grab him last night at the dance."

"Is that so?" Layla's Mom says before she's interrupted by her Dad.

"Have you given any thought to college, John?" Layla's Dad asks, and she looks frustrated.

I’m honestly thankful for the break.

Is Sonia going to be a problem? Layla just casually name-dropped her, and her Mom reacted to it like she was a familiar.

Of all the times for Hannah to not be here. I could really use her help right now; she might be able to explain this to me.

"I have early acceptance for Calarts, with a full scholarship. I'm still waiting for other grants and scholarships to come back, along with other possible colleges."

I'm all set for next year, and I was really looking forward to leaving high school and getting out of this town. Now, I'm not sure how I feel about it.

California's away from where all my friends are, and that wasn't something I had to worry about a month ago.

"It's good to keep your options open. You're an artist, then?"

"Yes, Sir."

"He's really good, Dad."

"John, I can't help but notice we match. Did you buy that shirt?" Layla's Mom says, and I really need to learn their first names.

"Kristy helped me; we did some shopping together before I took her to the dance; it suits my colouring."  Not that I need help with colour matching; that's such a basic skill.

She smiles. "Yes, it does. You and my daughter look almost picturesque right now. Come sit beside me for a moment; I want to see how we look together."

What? Even Layla looks startled.

"Yvonne, can't your little obsession with fashion wait a few hours?"

"Nonsense, Nathaniel, it will only take a moment. John, if you would."

Layla shrugs helplessly as her parents bicker, and I don't know what I should do here, but I don't lose anything by complying.

"Of course, Ma'am."

When I reach the sofa, I sit slightly further away from Yvonne than I did with Layla. Yvonne surprises me by immediately getting up and sitting close enough that her knee is pressing against mine.

"Layla, my Moonlight. Take a few photos of me and John together, would you?"

Don't freak out, John.

It feels like someone's replaced my spine with a steel rod. What is Yvonne up to here? I'm purposefully not looking at Nathaniel.

Layla takes out her phone and snaps a few photos, and then her mother motions for the phone.

Can I move now without causing a scene?

Apparently not, because Yvonne says. "Yes, I thought so. We'll have to consider this colour for your homecoming dress, Moonlight. John, where did you purchase that shirt?"

At least I know what store we were at today. "It's called A Slice of Life."

"Wonderful; I'll have to check out their inventory and see if there's anything suitable."

They stock dresses, but I didn't see anything that would work for Homecoming. I imagine that will change in the coming weeks.

Wait, am I taking Kristy to Homecoming?!

Fuck!

I wasn't even planning on going.

"John, do you play golf?" Nathaniel says suddenly, likely to get the topic onto something other than clothes. I'd honestly rather it continue.

"I haven't had the pleasure. Do you golf often?" That sounds like something I should say, right?

"Weather permitting, I'm out once a week. You should join me next time."

Okay, what is tonight, exactly?

I know Layla doesn't bring boys home, but this is really starting to feel like I'm meeting the parents of the girl I'm dating, and they're trying to get a feel for me.

It's weird.

"I wouldn't want to ruin your day by being an amateur."

"John," Yvonne says, neatly cutting off more golf talk and, more importantly, before I get roped into going. "Layla didn't mention any allergies. I wanted to confirm with you directly."

"That's correct, no allergies; your daughter is very thoughtful and wanted me to be comfortable tonight." Well, as comfortable as I can be right now.

I genuinely feel like I'm being used as some sort of cat paw here.

"I'm glad to see my lessons aren't going completely to waste," Yvonne says, and I can see Layla twitch.

"Layla has been an incredible friend to me; I'm thankful to have her in my life." Hmm, actually, with how things have gone so far, I shouldn't leave it at that. "I knew Kristy from class, but Layla's the reason we ever talked."

Payton and Hannah are my closest friends, but I'm comfortable with Kristy, and shockingly so, I'm becoming more comfortable by the day.

"Are you and Kristy dating, John?" Yvonne asks, and I suppress a wince.

"We aren't official; I like her, and we've gone on a few dates. I'd like her to be my girlfriend, though. I just need to figure out how to ask her."

"Trying to top the dance, John?" Layla says with a smile.

"John," Nathaniel says suddenly. "I'd like to show you something; let the girls gossip."

This feels like choosing between being burned to death or frozen. They both have the same result.

"What a wonderful idea, Nathaniel. You boys go talk."

Layla and I catch one another's eyes, and I'm pretty sure we're both trying to convey the same message. 'Save me. '

Unfortunately for both of us, Yvonne stands and all but pulls Layla out of the room.

"Come with me, John."

Nathaniel leads me through the house, and I'm really starting to think I should have asked Layla for more information about her parents. Everything here screams money, and a lot of it. We eventually come to a pair of wooden doors, and Nathaniel ushers me through them. It's an office, a serious one. The walls are lined with bookshelves, and there's a solid oak desk. Does Layla's Dad own a company or something?

This place makes me think CEO. There's even a large putting green in the corner.

"Drink, John?"

"Water would be appreciated." Of course, that's when Nathaniel gestures to a small bar that I hadn't seen when we entered. It's built into one of the bookshelves and usually hidden.

 I don't drink, I never have, and it's illegal besides.

"Water, I don't have unless you want it cubed. Whiskey?" Nathaniel says as he pours himself one

"No, thank you."

I'm not sure if this is a trap, but I'm genuinely not interested.

"So, Kristy. That girl is hot. How did you manage to score her?"

Oh my god, this is so gross. Is Layla's Dad actually trying to treat me like one of the boys?

"I have no idea, but she seems to like me, and I'm thankful."

“It’s just us men here, John. Locker room talk is fine.”

There are windows in here, and I could probably jump through one to escape. Anything would be better than being in this office right now. 

There's a knock on the door, and Layla comes in to save me. "Mom said dinner is ready and to come fetch you." She frowns at the glass. "Dad, are you drinking?"

If it was this close to dinner, why did we even separate?

"I was asking John if he wanted one."

Layla frowns again, thankfully at her Dad and not me. "We're underage, Dad."

"Let's not keep your mother waiting, dear."

I hope dinner is nice and without stress. The longer I'm here tonight, the more questions I have. Layla had mentioned that she and I would get to know one another tonight; that was the entire purpose of being here.

So why are we even having dinner with her parents? I hope I find out soon.

***

Still no sign of Hannah; I hope everything is okay with her. She seemed spooked once we arrived.

I've been keeping an eye out, but mostly, my attention is on my hosts. Layla's been on edge, and so have I. Thankfully, dinner is almost over.

"John, thank you for having dinner with us tonight; it was lovely to have you here."

Nathaniel's phone rang a few minutes ago, and he escaped, lucky him. Am I being dismissed? That would be great. Layla could take me home, and I could relax for a few hours before bed.

"Thank you for having me, Mrs Peters." She smiles at me. Honestly, she's been smiling a lot tonight, like she's genuinely pleased that I'm here.

"So, what are you kids up to the rest of tonight?"

Am I not going home?

Fuck!

"Oh, John and I are going to get to know one another better."

"Is that so?" Yvonne says, while looking at me, Why is she looking at me?

What did Layla say at the dance?

"Layla wants to make sure I'm good enough for Kristy," I force myself to laugh. "Your daughter has high standards, so to be honest, I just have to hope I can squeak by."

"Standards are important, John. Especially for a Captain, whether professionally or personally."

Yvonne nods. "Absolutely, helping your girlfriends find a suitable match is one of the joys of friendship. I'm delighted to hear Layla is helping Kristy." Yvonne gives Layla an almost sly smile. "I'm a little out of practice, but so far, I'm impressed."

"So far, so am I, but Mom, you shouldn't just tell him that. It removes some of my bargaining power."

Her what?

"Sorry, dear. I didn't mean to ruin your fun. I do hope your friend can return the favour soon."

As far as passive-aggressive comments go, that's in line with the rest I've heard tonight. Oh, Layla's parents have been lovely to me, too lovely, if I'm being honest. Given how tonight has gone, the sleaziness of Layla's dad, and Yvonne's attentiveness, I'm not going to be remotely surprised if I receive a future invitation or, worse, if Layla is encouraged to ask me out before Kristy officially does.

"I'm sure she will. Kristy's great like that." And she is. I don't think she knows anyone she could suggest, even if Layla weren't gay. 

"We'll be in my room, Mom."

Yvonne smiles at us both. "You kids have fun. John, don't be a stranger." And then she leaves.

"So..."

"We'll talk more in my room."

Layla leads me to another part of the house, and Hannah is already there, reading a magazine. She stands and joins us as we walk by. "It looks like you survived dinner without even a limp; good for you." Hannah is having a little too much fun at my expense. "When we get home, we need to talk."

Because that's something I wanted to hear from Hannah; she must have found something during her wandering that I need to know.

I can afford to relax right now; Hannah would tell me to leave now if there was any immediate danger.

"Through here, John," Layla says before ushering me through a door, and then I jump when it slams behind me. "Sorry, but I needed to do something. I'm sorry about my parents."

Maybe I've watched one too many movies, but I expected firm instructions to keep Layla's door open or something. Honestly, I'm glad Layla's parents haven't tried to intimidate me, but I'm not sure how I would have handled it. The food was nice, but everything else has been a lot.

Layla's bedroom is huge, like everything here, and I smile when Hannah takes a running leap and crashes onto Layla's bed.

What really catches my eye is how this space doesn't feel like Layla's, at least not the girl I'm still getting to know. There are posters of boys on the wall; I think I recognise some of them from recent movies.

All in all, this room looks like a stereotypical teenage girl's room, and that's intentional.

"Well, I managed to escape dinner without being officially invited to play golf with your Dad. I'll take the victory." 

Even if I'm actually more worried about Layla's Mom, there's something about how Yvonne talked to me that has me on edge. Maybe I'm imagining things, but maybe not. I'm leaning towards not, especially with Hannah wanting to tell me something.

How old are Layla's parents? They are in their mid-forties, for sure.

Hannah seemed to recognise their prom photo, and now she had something to talk to me about.

Did they go to school at the same time?

"I'll sneak you out the back or something."

I think we're on the second floor. "I don't suppose you have spare sheets we can turn into a rope ladder?" That works in real life, right?

Walking home from here sounds horrible, but if my options are to walk home or talk to Layla's parents again, I'll walk. Honestly, once I'm down the street, I could probably just call Kristy for a ride.

"We'll call that plan C; Dad's probably into his whiskey, especially since I interrupted him earlier, and Mom is probably talking to her country club friends about you. We can watch movies, hang out, and sneak you out later."

"I'll defer to you, oh Captain." Honestly, right now, it's easier to make a joke than to worry about just what Yvonne is saying about me.

That was clearly a mistake because Layla just turned her full attention to me. "Speaking of, how is your forfeit coming along?"

"I have no idea. I mean, Kristy said something about going easy on me, but we haven't discussed it."

I have been trying to avoid thinking about it. There's too much going on right now for me to worry about something that isn't immediate.

"But you were at the mall for a while together, right?"

What does the mall have to do with anything?

"Yeah, but I was mostly focused on her. Kristy showed up and said she was stressed at home. I was worried about her. I'm glad she's with Pay tonight." And honestly, I'm still trying to figure out a lot from last night.

I said too much, but even outside of that. Kristy implied a few things that I'm still working through.

Right now, I just want to be her friend.

Layla walks over to her bed and pats the spot beside her. "Come sit." Once I do, Layla says. "So what did you and Kristy do after the dance, exactly?"

"We waited in her car for the parking lot to empty, and then we went to Rita's and talked for a couple of hours. Get to know you sort of questions."

Last night was not only the most social interaction I've ever had, but it was also the longest. Sitting in the booth with Kristy at the end of the night was absolutely the icing on the cake.

"John, can I tell you something in confidence?" Layla says with a grin.

"I'll keep any secret you want." 

Hannah moves over until her head is resting on my shoulder, and I have to suppress a shiver. I really don't need Layla asking me why I'm shivering in her bedroom.

"We'll talk more when you get home tonight, John, but here's a word of advice. Stay away from the country club if you can. Even when I was alive, there were a lot of shady people there."

Good to know, and hopefully, avoiding it will be easy. My parents aren't members, and with any luck, I won't have to talk to Layla's parents again.

Wait, are Kristy's parents members? If it doesn't come up organically in conversation, I might need to ask her directly.

"Kristy likes you," Layla says, and I roll my eyes at Layla.

"We're becoming friends; I like her too." That's hardly a secret. "And now I need to figure out Homecoming, assuming she'll even want to go with me." And that's another issue I never expected to deal with.

Homecoming itself sounds fun for the first time; I'll have a date and good friends around me, and it honestly sounds wonderful.

What's the best way to ask Kristy to Homecoming? Yes, for the dance, it was a gesture in public, but maybe it should be something private, just for us.

The dance was part of the scheme; Kristy knew it was coming. She might not expect me to want to take her to Homecoming.

Why is this so complicated?

Layla looks at me and then bursts out laughing. "Ask her, she'll say yes."

"I know, it's part of the plan, but at the same time, it feels shitty." Dances happen pretty much once a month; they aren't a big deal, but Homecoming? "It's special, and Kristy is going to waste her Homecoming on me. She should have a real date, not me."

Kristy should be able to take a girl, whatever girl she likes, to Homecoming.

Layla reaches out and grabs my hand. "John." Her voice is soft and reassuring. "That isn't why Kristy will say yes."

Maybe Kristy just wants to have a date, so she has one? I guess that makes sense.

I'd still prefer that she take a nice girl with her, someone she could actually love.

"So, Kristy and I basically played twenty questions last night. Are you up for that, or do you have another way to get to know me?"

"Let me put on some movies, and we can do that at the same time. Any preferences?"

"I usually let Pay pick." Well, before, anyway. "Something fun; sorry if that doesn't narrow it down."

I'm shocked when Layla starts giggling. "She said you would do this; defer to me. That's a good way to get stuck with Chick flicks."

"Oh no, I'm being threatened by a good time." Movies don't have to be wall-to-wall explosions to be good.

"Careful, John. Who knows what I'll put on?"

"Something upbeat; I honestly just want to be able to relax right now." And I am; Layla's bed is incredibly soft. It's tempting to ask her for the brand, but it's probably well outside my budget.

I was worried about Kristy all day and stressed about dinner. Thankfully, that's done and over with now.

Tomorrow should be nice; it's just a day with Mom. Yes, she's going to have questions about this week, but she's overjoyed with how my life has changed recently; she just wants to check-in.

No power games, no pretending, I can just hang out with Mom. I'm looking forward to it.

Layla grins, and then, after a minute, Clueless starts to play. That's as good a place as any to start, but Layla seems inordinately amused. More importantly, I’m here, Hannah’s here, and I’m comfortable. 

This is the most relaxed I’ve been in ages.

***

 

"John, John. You need to wake up." Hannah's voice pulls me out of sleep, and there's a weight on me. That isn't too unusual, but Hannah usually just rolls off me, and this weight doesn't feel cold.

Honestly, it's pleasantly warm. Maybe I'll just lie here for a few more minutes.

"John!" Hannah says before I feel ice move down my spine, and I jolt awake.

Where am I?

Layla's room? We were watching movies, and I guess we fell asleep. She hasn’t moved.

Shit, what time is it?

"Someone's coming!" Hannah hisses; how does she know? Was she wandering around while I slept?

There's something on the TV, but I have no idea what it is, and I don't have time to think about it because Layla's door starts to open, and I close my eyes. That's really the best I can do right now. 

My heart is pounding in my chest; I'm surprised Layla is asleep; the thumping is all I can hear.

"My my Moonlight, moving in on your best friend's potential boyfriend. I'm impressed." Yvonne comes over to the bed, and I try to keep my breathing steady. "Layla, wake up. You too, John."

"Hmmm?"

Layla just pulls me closer, but I flutter my eyes a few times. "Who?"

"How was your nap, John? Did you wear yourself out?" I have never been as thankful to be dressed as I am right now. 

"Hi Mrs Peters, sorry. I guess we fell asleep."

"John, what are you doing in my room?" Layla says, bolting upright and staring at her Mom.

"It's almost midnight. I came to check on you both."

Shit, I told Mom I should be home by 10:00 PM; Maybe she didn't notice? Yeah, there's no way I'm that lucky. It's better to own up to it, so I send her a quick message that I'm on my way home.

"I should get home; thanks for waking us, Mrs Peters."

"Give me five minutes to wake up, John, and I'll run you home."

"Nonsense, dear. I'll take your friend home. We wouldn't want his parents to worry, and I wouldn't want you to get into an accident."

Oh no.

"No! Mom, that is super great of you to offer, but I'll take John home."

"Don't inconvenience yourself for me, Mrs Peters. I'll call for a ride."

Hannah’s scowling at Yvonne. There’s definitely some history there, and Hannah hasn’t moved on.

My parents are probably asleep, but Kristy might still be awake. Granted, she and Payton might have passed out the same way we did. I'll figure something out; I just don't want to be alone with Mrs Peters.

"Now, John, you're our guest. How could I ever face your family if something were to happen to you? No, I'll drive you home myself." Yvonne turns to Layla. "If you want to come for the drive, Moonlight, you may."

That's a better option than I expected to get; Yvonne seems used to getting her way.

Layla looks at me awkwardly before she disentangles herself from me, and I slip off the bed.

"Thank you, Mrs Peters. A ride is very kind of you."

"You're very welcome."

I follow Layla and her Mom out to the garage in silence; I don't have anything I want to say right now, especially when I'm half asleep.

"John, I know you're going to open Layla's door; use one of the rear ones. Trust me," Hannah says, as long as I don't end up beside Yvonne.

Yvonne stops at a silver car; it looks expensive, like the house. I'm not sure why I'm surprised. 

I take a half-step in front of Layla and open the rear passenger door. She rolls her eyes at me but steps inside, and then I close her door. Yvonne catches my eye and smiles at me. She seems pleased, and that feels like a bad thing.

There's nothing I can do right now, so I walk around the car and where Yvonne is, unfortunately, lingering.

"May I get your door, Mrs Peters?"

"That would be sweet of you, John." Okay then. Yvonne steps back a little so I can open her door, and once she's seated, I gently close her door and then get into the car myself. Hannah settles into my lap, and I breathe a sigh of relief.

This night is almost over. I can't wait to climb into bed.

Layla gives Yvonne my address, and it's incredibly tempting to rest my head on the window and just go back to sleep, but that would be rude.

"Thank you again for the dinner invitation, Layla. It was really nice of you, and I had a wonderful time. Mrs Peters, thank you for opening your home to me and for the ride."

"It was a genuine pleasure to have you."

This is the longest drive of my life, and honestly, Layla looks more tense than I feel. Then again, she isn't getting away from her Mom soon like I am.

Layla looks tense, and she's looking out her window and anywhere but at me. 

I don't think Layla will be in trouble, but from what I heard Yvonne say when she thought I was asleep, she may prefer that.

Yvonne seemed delighted that Layla might stab a friend in the back, and that's concerning. Oh, I don't think Layla's the type, but it's the expectation that worries me.

"John, you need to read through Payton's texts at a minimum before bed tonight, and you should message Kristy."

That hadn't even occurred to me, and honestly, it makes me feel worse. 

The car pulls into my driveway, and once it stops, Layla gives me a look. Maybe it's a mistake, maybe it's not, but I reach out and grab her hand.

"Thanks for tonight, I'll text you."

"See you Monday, John."

Hannah slides off my lap and out of the car as I open the door. "Thank you again for the ride, Mrs Peters."

"Have a good night, John. I'm sure I'll see you again before too long." I hope not. I can't think of any circumstance where that would happen.

Tonight was about us getting to know one another better. There's no reason Layla and I have to hang out at her place again, especially not if it means seeing her parents again.

"Drive safe, Mrs Peters, Layla. Please let me know once you're home." And I step out of the car.

"I will, thanks."

I'm just about to shut the door when Yvonne says. "Moonlight, come join me up front. It's lonely by myself."

"Sure, Mom," Layla says while sounding like she wants to do anything but. 

There isn't anything I can do to help but at the same time. I motion Layla toward me, and the door I haven't shut yet.

I smile at the eye-roll, but Layla scooches over and steps out of the door I'm holding open.

"Let me get the door for you, Layla." It's easy enough to slip my arm around her back and lead her the long way around the car.

We're just coming around the trunk when Layla pulls me into a hug, and I swear I can see Yvonne smiling through the glass.

"Thanks, John."

I need to keep my voice down, but it's easy to whisper into Layla's ear. "Take care of yourself. I told Kristy earlier today that the same offer is open to you. If you need a place, you're welcome here."

Layla clutches me tighter for just a minute before she steps back and pulls me forward.

I open the passenger side door for her, and Yvonne catches my eyes before smiling. Her smile is sharp and spiky. "You're such a gentleman, John. That's a rare thing these days."

"Bye, John. Thanks."

“Drive safe.”

Hannah starts shoving me toward the front door, and I wait on the doorstep until Yvonne starts backing out of our driveway before I head inside.

"That woman is a viper, don't trust her, John."

Well, that's a condemnation if there ever was one. During our entire friendship, I've never heard Hannah talk about someone like that. Mom and Dad are sleeping, and I don't want to wake them by talking in the hall, so I wait until we're in our bedroom.

"I don't, Hannah, but I appreciate the warning."

Hannah's pacing. "I can't believe Layla's their daughter." Well, that confirms they went to school together. "She's so sweet, poor girl. It was very nice of you to offer her a place here, John. Layla may need it sooner or later."

That isn't something I really wanted to hear, but I'd rather know now, when it isn't urgent, is better than later when it might be. Tomorrow. I glance at the time; later today, whenever I get home from my day with Mom, it might be worth tidying up the basement more, just in case.

Maybe I should sketch some layouts before I put up the string lights, but there's an important question I need to ask first.

"Hannah, if one of the girls needs to sleep here, we might need to figure out other sleeping arrangements. Shit, I should have thought of that before I offered."

I didn't even think to consult Hannah.

Stupid.

"Stop that, John. I can tell you're being mean to yourself." Hannah stops her pacing and hugs me. "Worse case, I'll grab an echo of your couch and use that." Hannah can echo something that big? It honestly never occurred to me to ask.

It just feels rude to pry into her existence.

"Sorry, I still should have asked first."

Hannah pulls out of our hug and radiates mischief when she says. "I guess you'll have to make it up to me." Before I can start to plan another mall trip, Hannah turns on some soft music and extends her hand.

I'm dancing more than I ever thought I would, but it's also really enjoyable.

Who knew?

Well, Hannah, obviously, but there's no real reason to tell her that she was right. I think she already knows, but why give her the satisfaction?

"I guess I will." 

Mom wants me up early, and I agreed, but at this point, staying up a bit longer won't hurt—especially since I have no idea how long I slept at Layla's.

For once, I started leading without prior agreement, and it's so peaceful to be just Hannah and me.

In some ways, I miss how simple things used to be, even just a week ago, but I know that's silly.

I'm happier and enjoying life more than I have in years. Yes, things are complicated, but my life is better in every possible way now.

After a few songs pass in silence, Hannah says. "You should read your texts and then get to sleep."

"You're right, but in a few minutes. I have another dance in me."

Maybe two.

After a few more songs, there's no reason actually to count; Hannah reluctantly pulls away. "Thanks, John. Now, go read your texts and get some sleep."

 

Lalalal:  I'm home. We'll talk tomorrow.

John: Sleep well.

Lalalal: And John, thanks

Layla needs to be careful with what she writes —that's obvious—but her thanks make me feel good. 

One down, two to go. 

I'll save Payton's for last. Kristy's messages have apparently been piling up all evening, and hopefully, they'll be lighter than Payton's.

 

Kristy: thanks for this morning. It meant a lot that you were there.

Kristy: you looked upset. Are you okay?

Kristy:  I know you're with Layla, but take care

Kristy: message deleted

Kristy: message deleted

Kristy: message deleted

Kristy: message deleted

Kristy: Hey, just ignore those

Kristy: they were for the girls.

Kristy: John, you didn't see those, right?

It's been about an hour since her last message; maybe I should have tried for a ride. Kristy driving me home would have been a lot better than Yvonne.

John: I'm home now; sorry I missed your messages.

John: don't worry, I didn't see anything you deleted.

John: sorry I missed you.

John: you're probably already asleep.

John: sleep well.

For a second, I swear my phone flashes with 'Kristy is typing,' but it's gone so quickly that I must have imagined it. It really would have been nice to talk to her. Payton's messages are painful to read through, and I'm pretty sure she maxed out her word count per message a dozen times over. A lot of it is what I expected: anger at herself and me and a ton of fear. Enough that I feel guilty. Payton shouldn't blame herself, and sure, that's hypocritical of me, but I'm allowed to be.

What really hits me is the joy, having it in clear text just how happy Payton is that we're talking again, that we're friends again.

Pay: I never knew how much I missed you before the other day.

Pay: It just became part of my life.

Pay: I know the distance was my fault. it's why I couldn't bridge it. I wasn't brave enough to talk to you. Not after what I did.

Pay: What if you rejected me?

Pay: You're the best thing in my life, Jay.

And she's the best thing in mine, even though the number of good things has been multiplying, and it's honestly a little funny how just mirrored our worries were.

Mr Brown still kind of sucks, but maybe I should cut him some slack; he's the one who paired me with Payton this semester. We might never have talked otherwise.

Pay: I know you're with Kristy, but I want to talk soon.

That's from earlier today when we were at the mall. I still feel bad about leaving Pay on unread for so long.

 

Pay: We should talk, but are you Okay?

Pay: message deleted.

Pay: message deleted.

Pay: Kristy said you're busy with Aunt Diane tomorrow.

Pay: I'm coming for dinner on Tuesday; we can wait until then.

Pay: You have a lot on your plate.

Pay: Love you, Jay, no matter what.

 

That reassurance from Payton means a lot to me; I don't have to worry. Well, okay, I can worry less.

Hannah gently pulls my phone out of my hands. "It's late, John. Get ready for bed. Send Payton a reply to her messages and sleep."

"Thanks, Hannah; I was really distracted."

"I know, shoo."

She's such a brat, but I love Hannah.

"Love you too."

Thankfully, getting ready for bed doesn't take long, and now I just need to respond to Pay.

John: I love you too, Pay. I never thought I would be thankful to Mr Brown, of all people, but we're together, and it's like coming home again.

John: I'm sorry I scared you and that I didn't try sooner. I wanted to, but I was so afraid.

John: Last night was fun until it wasn't, but I don't regret telling you how dark I got. You deserved to know, even if I was embarrassed originally.

John: I've been feeling moody swingy the last few days.

John: It's probably just everything weighing me down.

John: I just realised tonight I need to figure out how to ask Kristy to homecoming?!

John:  Maybe I shouldn't, though; Kristy should find a nice girl to take, someone she could be happy with.

John: I'm rambling, night Pay, love you,

That's enough, probably too much, but Payton's word count deserved some kind of response, not just a sentence or two. A face-to-face conversation would have been better, but this will do for now.

"Good night, Hannah."

"Get some sleep, Jay." Hannah smiles as she shakes out her new comforter. I don't know how I will explain to Mom why I have new pink bedding, but we bought it.

Something that is just Hannah's, something real and her smile makes any potential embarrassment worth it.