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Nealeciawas born.

Lileciadied a slow, regrettable death.

Since Neal hung out with Wes and Leesh spent as much time as she could with Neal, she and I hung out less and less.

We didn’t talk about it, though. Neither one of us complained. I understood her need to be with Neal, and she understood my need to stay away from Wes.

We Facetimed a lot when I first moved to New York and then had text conversations every month or so as I’d gotten more and more caught up in the New York swing of things. Once she’d gotten married and started having babies, it was just the occasional text to check in, every couple of months. But I never stopped thinking about her. I always planned to get back in touch for real. I always wanted to be Aunt Lily to her kids eventually.

Maybe I should just call her and say that?

But then if she doesn’t answer, what the hell am I supposed to say in a voice mail?

I do what any self-respecting millennial would do—I lowkey text her and hope she won’t notice or care that it has been nearly half a year since the last time we exchanged messages.

ME: Hey, girl! How are the kiddos?! I’m in town and would love to see you! Xoxo

Three excruciating minutes later, I get a reply.

ALECIA: Um. Hey. Everything okay? Is it your dad?

My heart sinks. This is not the exclamation point and emoji-filled response I was hoping for.

ME: Yes! I mean yes everything’s okay and my dad is fine.

ME: I’ve missed you and I’m dying to see your pretty face.

ALECIA: Dude. You’re AWOL for years and you just text me when you get to town and expect me to drop everything for you?

My stomach drops as I watch the animated dots and await her next message, fully expecting the ass reaming that I deserve.

ALECIA: Totally kidding omg I’m so bored get over here asshole! I mean I still hate you a little but I have been missing you like crazy. #ihavenolife #bringwine#andgossip #andZacEfron

ALECIA: Okay wait, don’t come now though. Forgot for one second that I have kids who need a bath and to get into bed soon. Tomorrow, daytime?

ME: Um. I have to work during the day.

ALECIA: Are you shooting a movie here or something?

ME: Uh. No. Long story short, I’m working for my dad. Maybe I can come for a quick visit on my lunch break?

ALECIA: DO IT!!!

ALECIA: But also WTF?! Dying to hear what’s up.

ME: Lol don’t get too excited. You good?

ALECIA: Oh sure. I’m wearing a stained t-shirt that says World’s Okayest Mom and I have dried ketchup in my hair. Could not be better.

ME: Lol. Sounds good to me.

ME: We good?

ALECIA: Yeah, girl. We good.

ALECIA: Oh shit I just realized Wes works for your dad too!!!!!!!

ALECIA: