Page 17

Just because he cares doesn’t mean he likes me in that way.
True. His drive to look after me goes against my hyperindependence, yet I can’t help but secretly like it.
About fifteen minutes later, I arrive at the Italian restaurant Josie said to meet at. The night, despite being cold, is rather calm.
I walk through the front door of the crowded restaurant. The warmth of the place rushes over my body instantly despite being in the cold just moments ago.
I should have taken a warmer coat when I had the chance.
I walk to the hostess stand. “Hi, I’m meeting someone. She should already be seated. I think the party is under Jocelyn.”
“Are you Mia Knight?” the hostess asks.
“Yes.”
“We were told to be expecting you. Right this way.”
I follow the older woman through the restaurant. We pass table after table of people. Some with families. Some on dates.
We enter a large private room, secluded from the rest of the restaurant by doors.
As she opens them, I’m greeted by four women. I scan their faces until my gaze locks on a familiar one.
“Mia!” Josie squeals, standing from her chair and all but running to me.
I meet her halfway, embracing her. “Josie! How are you?”
She has her bright blond hair styled in a cute high pony. She wears a short, pink, sequined, spaghetti-strapped minidress.The garment compliments her small waist and large bust. Her shoes are a bright hot pink.
“I’m good. I’m so glad to finally see your face. Oh my god, it’s been too long.”
“I know, right?”
Breaking from our hug, we walk over to the table.
“Everyone, this is my high school friend, Mia. Mia, this is Hannah, Emily, and Ashlyn. They were my roommates and besties in college. I don’t think I would have survived without them,” Josie introduces me to the three other women I don’t recognize.
They all greet me with a smile.
Taking a seat beside Jocelyn at the rectangular table, we enjoy appetizers and pasta dishes. From jobs to exes, we spend a good hour talking about anything and everything.
“So are you dating anyone?” I ask my bestie when the other girls are in the middle of another conversation.
She blushes. “Unfortunately, I’ve had no luck in the dating department. All duds, I’m afraid.”
“I get you on that,” I sympathize. “How long are you in Dallas?”
“Honestly? I haven’t decided. I’ve been looking for a fresh start. Not sure where that is yet, but I figured I could go back to my roots for now until I do.”
She’s here indefinitely? “That’s awesome! Where are you staying?”
“With my parents for now until I can get a job.”
I have an idea. “If you want, I can talk to my brother about getting you a job interview. He’s been looking to hire more hands since his company has been expanding.”
“You’d do that for me?” She seems shocked.
“Absolutely.” There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for the people I love and care about.