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anything in my life.

r /> Chapter 15

Adley

Tildy did eat most of her mac and cheese so, true to my word,

we did the board games. We did the ice cream, and then I

turned on a movie. I took the big chair and Steph and Tildy

took the couch. I think they were both asleep within the first

twenty minutes of the movie.

I click the movie off and debate about going for a

blanket. I’m pretty sure that upright for Steph and in a tight

little ball for Tildy isn’t a very comfortable or healthy way to

pass out for the night. I debate waking them up or carrying

Tildy to my bed, but I don’t do that either. Instead, I just watch

them.

They’re beautiful. Even in strange sleeping positions.

Even with Tildy’s mouth gaping open. Even though Steph

would probably be really embarrassed if she knew I was

watching.

I watch them for so long because I’m a little bit scared

that this evening wasn’t real. It was such a great evening. Just

like the other night with Steph. Just like every single time I’ve

been with her. I have fun. I feel good. I can just be myself.

Yes, I fight that, but it’s there. All that goodness. That’s why

it’s so scary. The more memories you build, the more real

something becomes.

I nearly leap out of my chair when my phone goes off

on the armrest. I have it turned down, but the sound still scares

me. It doesn’t wake up Steph or Tildy. I glance at the text from

Mandy.

She says that she’s feeling better and she’d like to