Page 48 of If We Meet Again

“You feel like your whole career choice has been built on a lie?”

“I guess so. My years spent at college, my move into the city—it was all to follow in his footsteps. Since I found out the truth, I lost the inspiration. All I think about now when I open my laptop is all the times he sold me a pipe dream, made out as though writing was this amazing career and that we would one day write stories together. It was amazing for him because he got to be with them, that’s the only reason.”

“What if he believed it was amazing? What if the writing was never a lie, but instead the only genuine thing he could discuss with you?”

Ashley considered that theory. “I never looked at it like that.” It was a new take on an old situation.

“I’m not defending him, but if he was keeping all those secrets and lying to you and your mom, maybe the bond he had with you over writing was his saving grace. It probably made him feel less guilty, knowing that he was having a positive impact on your life despite his wrongdoings.”

“Is that the only reason, though?The guilt?”

“Have you everasked him?”

“No.”

Megan reached to hold Ashley’s hand, playing with the tips of her fingers intricately, as if she would hold them for the last time. “Well, maybe you should. Itmight help.”

“Maybe.”

“I think regardless of what happened, if writing is a passion of yours, then pursue it. You’ll only regret it in ten years’ time when you look back at what could’ve been.”

“I know.”

“So, promise me then.”

“What?”

“That you’ll write the best version possible of Nancy’s story and publish it for the world to see.”

“I can’t make that promise. It’s notthat easy.”

“I believe you can.”

Ashley smiled—just hearing the words made her emotional. The belief she had lost was in the heart of a girl she barely knew, only two physical meetings, yet spiritually, it felt like many more. Ashley felt even closer to Megan now, knowing they would soon be physically apart. They connected on a level that was beyond anything she had experienced before. Through their body language, their eyes, their voice, the slightest touch. The opportunity presented itself, Ashley leaned in, her lips brushing softly, delicately against Megan’s. The warmth of her skin and the scent of her perfume lingered as the cart came to a stop, neither wanting to pull away too soon.

“I’m sorry.”

Megan inhaled, catching her breath. “Don’t be.” She whispered.

“Not a great start to ourfriendship.”

“We can always start tomorrow.” Megan smiled.

They hopped off the ride and headed towards the fairground exit. Ashley had a habit of biting her lip when she felt nervous, her gaze fell to the floor.

“What’s wrong? You’ve gone quiet.” Megan observed.

“Can I come and visit you? In England? Only if you wanted me to of course, no pressure.”

“Of course. I would love to show you around.” Megan seemed genuinely excited.

“I’d love to seeit one day.”

Ashley reached her arm around Megan. She had to tip-toe slightly to make it work in her favour. “Thank you for the best second date I’ve ever had.”

“I should be thanking you. It was allyour idea.”

“That’s true, actually. I take it back.” They laughed uncontrollably, a common theme in their short time together. The sun had fully set on a day that Ashley hoped they would one day repeat. The timeline was unknown, but one thing was for sure, she would never forget their time spent together.