Page 38 of Forever

Macy comes with another round and looks at the three of us. “Anything else?”

Both Emma and J.D. turn to look at me. Great. Just what I needed. If I don’t invite her to stay I’ll be a complete douche and if I do there is no way I’ll leave like I planned.

“Why don’t you join us?” I smile weakly.

Please say no.

Please.

I wanted to catch up with my buddy over beers and burgers and then go home to talk to my girl on Skype before it gets too late and she goes to bed.

She smiles brightly at me, and I feel my hope burn down slowly.

Emma slides in the booth next to me and places her order.

For the next thirty minutes we talk about stupid shit. I try to concentrate on the moment and forget about the blinking light signaling a text message from Bel. I try not to look at the clock and count the time difference between Croatia and States, wondering if I’ll get to talk to her once I’m done here.

After some time, J.D.’s phone rings and he answers. The call is short, but I can see a different kind of shine in his green eyes. Sienna’s on the phone. He laughs at something she said, shaking his head.

“I’ll be there soon, babe,” he says finally and hangs up.

“What’s up with Si?”

“Hormones. She wants tacos.” He laughs quietly.

“What’s wrong with tacos?”

“She wants tacos, chocolate mint ice cream, cherry Pop-Tarts, and pineapple.”

“Only Sienna.” I chuckle.

“So, I have to go and feed my hungry wife and kid before she starts demolishing my house. I’ll see you later, kids.”

Would it be rude if I suggest we also go?

Probably.

I sigh and turn to Emma. “Want another drink?”

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