Page 49 of I Don't Need Your Love

“Thanks. I just got a memory of my brother and sister. I barely remember them because I was only three when they died, but sometimes I’m hit with a memory out of nowhere and…I don’t know, it’s jarring. And painful.”

“What was the memory about?” I ask softly.

“Adam and Gina coming home with their licenses.” She smiles sadly. “They both wanted to get it on their birthday and were worried one of them would get it and the other wouldn’t. The memory is hazy, but I remember Adam throwing me on his shoulders and telling me that twin telepathy worked for them that day and that we were all going out for ice cream to celebrate.” Her chest heaves and she lowers her eyes. “I wish Iremembered what flavor of ice cream I had, or what flavor they had.” She raises her eyes, and I see tears in them. “I wish I remembered them more. I’m glad Gina was obsessed with taking photos and videos. Sometimes I wonder if my memories are my memories or just their videos.”

Addie slides her hand into Sophie’s and squeezes it. “I’m worried I’ll forget my parents, too.”

Sophie nods with an appreciative smile. Raven and I can’t understand what they’re going through. I’m glad they have each other to rely on.

Sophie laughs lightly. “Sorry for downing the mood. I guess talking about cars jarred that memory from the recesses of my mind. Brains work in funny ways.”

“Never apologize for the way you feel,” I tell her. “Like Raven said, we’re always here for you. You don’t have to try to hide or be brave. You can let us know if you’re feeling crappy.”

“Agreed,” Raven and Addie say.

Sophie nods. “Thanks. The same for you guys.”

My phone beeps with a text. I nearly drop my phone when I scan the screen. Why is he texting me?

“Your parents?” Raven asks.

I shake my head. “It’s Ryder.”

They gape at me, and Addie says, “Ooh.”

I give her a face before reading the text.

Ryder: Evenin’ Cap’n. Why are you not in your room?

Carly: Are you spying on me?

Ryder: Yep.

Carly: Creep.

Ryder: But a hot creep, right?

Carly: A creep is a creep, no matter what he looks like.

Ryder: Gasp! Did you just admit that I’m hot?

Carly: No, Ryder Bennett. You’re the one who admitted that you’re hot.

Ryder: You admitted it, too.

Carly: You’re such a pest. I’m blocking you.

Ryder: Hey, it’s fun texting with you!

Carly: I wish the feeling was mutual.

Ryder: Well, you just broke my heart.

“Oh my gosh,” Sophie gasps. “Are my eyes playing tricks on me, or is Carly smiling?”

My eyes snap to her and the others, who are watching me with intrigue. My lips do feel lifted…

“He’s irritating me,” I tell them.