Love you too. Now enjoy this movie with me, we gotta go for dinner soon. Jess shushed me and I finally complied.
I sunk back into the couch and started watching the movie, smiling softly to myself. Today had been nice, and it was about to get a whole lot better. I couldn’t wait to try that pasta Derek and Tyler kept complimenting. And I couldn’t wait to be surrounded by the people I loved and cared for. Despite one certain person not being there, I was happy. But then I thought of our phone call two days ago and I frowned. I had been trying to keep my mind off of it, but it was a lot. Obviously I was filled with concern for him, especially after he had told me that he was with his father. How he was in Europe and for what reason was beyond me, and I knew I wouldn’t be getting any explanations any time soon. It mainly concerned me when he’d told me how he was being forced to stay there against his will.
But these past three months had only consisted of me worrying over him to no avail. He wouldn’t open up to me, he wouldn’t tell me if he was okay, and he hadn’t bothered trying to message me again. At this point, I was a little hurt and upset with it. I could only care so much for him, but if he was choosing to keep me blocked out of whatever was going on, then there was nothing I could really do about it.
The concern still washed over me as I let my mind get lost in thought over him yet again. So deciding to brush aside the hurt and frustration I felt towards him for pushing me away and keeping me out, time and time again, I decided to send a short message. I dropped my worries and anxieties over his safety as I knew it would lead nowhere except for a darker and deeper hole of helplessness and misery, and instead decided to send him the three words which were unchanging and above everything else.
S I love you.
I quickly hit send and tucked my phone back in my pocket. If he really wasn’t okay, at least now he knew I was there for him. Hopefully it made him feel better, even if it was a small fleeting smile, I hoped it made a difference.
Jess and I ended up watching two movies before Tyler got back, and then we left for the restaurant to celebrate his new job.
The restaurant was simply amazing. The night had been filled with laughter, smiles and good memories. I had a blast with Tyler and all the guys, and they did too. By the time we left the restaurant, it was already nearing midnight.
Goodnight girls. Tyler called as Jess and I made our way towards the stairs.
We’re ladies, not girls. Jess corrected, giggling as Tyler rolled his eyes.
I laughed and followed Jess up the steps, before pausing. I’ll be up in two seconds. I told her, before turning to walk back down the steps and towards the kitchen where Tyler was.
Hey, I hope you enjoyed your night. I’m so proud of you big bro. I spoke with a big smile.
It was amazing. The guys’ really surprised me with those football tickets and the game was unforgettable. Tyler grinned. And the dinner was super nice too, it was really sweet of you to do that for me. He smiled down at me, ruffling my hair with his hand.
Hey ! I ducked away from him, before laughing. You deserve it. You worked so hard and put your best effort into everything you do. I’m really lucky and proud to have you as my brother. I smiled.
Thanks Sky. Now go paint your nails with Jess or whatever. She’s waiting for you. Tyler rushed me out.
I laughed, skipping out of the kitchen and turning back once more to face him. I love you. I called out.
Love you too brat. Now shoo. Tyler chuckled at me.
I stuck my tongue out, before meeting Jess in my room.
We actually did end up painting our nails, and then we played some music and danced around my room until we dropped dead onto our pillows from exhaustion. It was truly a euphoric night for me, it felt good to be carefree and laugh that much.
The fact that Nathan hadn’t replied to my earlier text didn’t bother me in the least. I was happy that finally, I could stop letting those annoying pangs of hurt become rocky bumps in my day. I was too lucky and too happy to care. I still loved and cared for him just as much as I had the day he’d left, the only difference was that I was stronger. And I couldn’t have done it without my wonderfully amazing friends.
–
The next morning I woke up to the sound of rustling around, coming from my closet. I sat up and looked over at Jess’ sleeping bag on the ground to see it was empty. I looked towards my closet but the door was closed.
What on earth was that girl up to now ?
Jess ? I called out, yawning after and stretching out my limbs. I had really gotten a good sleep last night, which was rare because my nights usually consisted of me staying awake, thinking of a certain boy.
The rustling stopped and then silence followed.
Jess, is that you ? I asked, more alert now.
Yeah. She answered, causing me to relax.
What are you doing in my closet ? I asked her, stepping out of bed now.
I was just going through your clothes you know, since you have an awesome taste in fashion. She chuckled nervously.
I stepped towards the door and was about to open it when she pulled it open slightly and slipped out, closing it behind her.
Oh don’t tell me you were playing dress up in there. I rolled my eyes.
Yes ! That’s exactly what I was doing ! Jess exclaimed, sounding too happy.
I narrowed my eyes at her suspiciously, something was up.
Anyways, Tyler made breakfast so let’s go sleepyhead ! Jess exclaimed, taking my arm and dragging me away.
I sighed and decided to let it go. Knowing Jess, I’d find out sooner or later.
Once I had washed up and eaten a lavish breakfast made by my chef of a brother, Jess quickly threw some clothes at me and told me we were going to the zoo.
Why ? I had no clue.
I decided I’d better listen to her and so here I was now, standing in front of the ring-tails that were hiding in their cool, shady cave. It was quite a hot day after all. Ella and Landon had decided to join us too.
Why aren’t they coming out ? Jess whined like a little five year old. I wanna see them. She pouted.
I know how we can get them out. Landon said with a smirk now.
Oh no.
How ? Jess asked eagerly as Landon smirked at all of us.
By singing ! Landon exclaimed, causing me to face-palm.
Before any of us could question his sanity, Landon jumped in front of the ring-tails and started doing some weird dance. I like to move it move it ! I like to move it move it ! I like to move it move it ! You like to, move it ! Landon sung at the top of his lungs, causing people to stop and stare at my unique best friend.