Page 22

Story: Having Henley

Yeah, for you to stop being a bitchy little asshole. You told Ryan you’d take care of her so nut the fuck up and do your goddamn job.
Unknown: Ryan said he spoke
with you… did he tell you I’m
coming to Boston to see my
dad?
Me: Yup. You know when?
Unknown: I’m taking the train.
I’ll be there Friday morning.
Friday. Tomorrow. Enough time to get my shit together. Figure out how to be around her again without bitching out.
Me: Need a ride from the
station?
If my dad found out I knew she was coming and I didn’t offer to pick her up, he’d break my neck. That’s why I make to offer. Because, despite my daily display to the contrary, I was raised right. That’s it. The only reason I offer.
Unknown: No thank you,
I have a ride.
A ride? From who? My gut clenches and I suddenly want to know where she’s staying. With who. How long she’ll be here.
Stop. You don’t know this girl. Not anymore. So, just fucking stop.
Instead of going all Neanderthal, I lock it down. Why? Because I don’t give a shit. That’s why.
I don’t.
I really don’t.
Me: Alright. Meet me for
Lunch?
Unknown: That sounds good.
Me: Great. Gilroy’s @ noon.
Unknown: Okay. See you then.
Before I can force my brain to come up with a reply, another message comes through.
Unknown: It’ll be nice to see
you again, Conner.
I don’t respond. I just jam my phone back into my pocket and go home.