Page 48 of Frozen Hearts

“Well, since I’m going to be staying in WaterColor for a while I thought I could volunteer here,” Angela explained.

“That’s wonderful. Jordan, the manager, is always looking for volunteers,” Mel smiled.

“Then I guess I’m in the right place,” Angela teased.

“You definitely are.”

Mel checked her cell and cursed silently. She was running late to catch up with Brianna. When she finally pulled into her driveway Brianna was sitting on the porch. Her friend didn’t say anything, but Mel could tell Brianna was perturbed. Shit.

“I’m so sorry. I ran into Willow’s mom,” Mel explained. She watched as Brianna’s eyebrows lifted, her frustration suddenly replaced by interest. Mel smiled as she opened the door.

“How did that come about?” Brianna asked with a smirk.

“I was rounding the corner and ran right into her. Which seems to be a bit of a theme for me lately,” Mel groaned.

Brianna laughed as she took her usual spot on Mel’s couch. For the first time, Mel noticed that there was a Brianna-sized indentation in the couch cushion where her friend usually sat. She felt an unexpected warmth radiate from her heart. That spot represented hours worth of her and Brianna hanging out.

“Are you okay?” Brianna asked.

“Yeah. I was just thinking about your spot on my couch,” Mel explained.

“Okay. Why do you look like you want to cry?”

“Because there’s a you-sized indent in my couch. And it’s because you and I have spent so many hours talking on this couch,” Mel said with a warm smile.

“Oh, my goodness. You’re equal parts weird and sweet,” Brianna laughed. She threw an arm around Mel and pulled her in for a hug.

“Now, tell me about running into Angela,” Brianna smiled.

“Well, she told me that Willow wanted me and not Amy.”

“That’s something at least.”

“Maybe,” Mel admitted.

“What do you mean, maybe?”

“It’s very reliant on Angela knowing what is going on inside Willow’s head. And I’m not sure about that.”

“I would say for her to have such a dramatic about-face, there has to be a reason,” Brianna offered.

“I guess we’ll find out tonight.”

“Everything will work out. Even if you and Willow go your separate ways it’ll all work out.”

“I know. It’s just the anticipation that gets to me,” Mel admitted.

“That’s understandable. But you’ve got this. And whatever happens I’m happy to sink your couch in more whenever you need it,” Brianna laughed. Mel rolled her eyes but smiled.

“I should get going. I want to give you time to prepare for your talk with Willow.”

“Thanks for coming over, friend. I appreciate the pep talk.”

“Anytime,” Brianna laughed. She gave Mel one last hug and headed for the door. Before she stepped out Brianna turned back to her.

“You’ve got this, buddy,” Brianna said. Mel gave her a smile and watched as Brianna closed the door behind her.

It was strange being left here alone and waiting. Mel couldn’t help but wish the time would pass quicker. In an hourWillow would be there and Mel would have her answers one way or another.

---