Page 10 of Sure, Pal

Suddenly the smell of Ava’s Black Opium perfume was making me feel nauseated.

“Let’s do a selfie.” Ava pulled her phone from her back pocket and held it out in front of our faces.

“Aves, seriously? I literally almost died today! I do not want to be featured on your Instagram page!”

“I’ll use a filter, Si! Just smile because we’re so happy that you’re still alive!” Ava snapped the picture before I was ready. “One more. Smile, Sienna!” I knew I wouldn’t sway Ava, so I sighed and gave her a tiny, fake smile. “Aw, so cute!” Ava typed a quick caption and posted the photo.

Great.

Ava wrapped her arms around me again and asked, “How long do you have to stay here?”

“Um, I’d normally be able to go home in a few hours, but the swelling spread up my leg, and it hasn’t gone down yet, so they want to watch me overnight to be safe.”

“Did your parents come yet?”

“My dad just left.” My voice sounded as flat as I felt.

Ava pursed her lips. “You know my parents will adopt you, right?”

I laughed and nodded. I spent more time at Ava’s house lately than my own. “Love you.”

“Love you, too.”

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