Page 36 of Love and Other Chances

“I know you’re not going to figure it all out right now,” Amaya says. “But we’re in your corner no matter what. However the pieces come together, we’re with you. You don’t have to hide from us, okay?”

I give a grateful nod. “If I’d had you two back in high school, maybe I wouldn’t have floundered so much. Maybe I would have had a better way to cope. But I’m glad I have you now.”

“You have us always, Teegs,” Lana says. “Beefs for life.”

Chapter fourteen

Homecoming week gives me the perfect excuse to skip small group and avoid seeing Brooks the Wednesday after my sick weekend. I throw myself into the contagious energy of the events, attempting to brush off the weight of last weekend’s emotions.

Lana and Amaya text me often, checking in and offering encouragement. Each time, I’m grateful all over again that God led me to them our freshman year. Their constant friendship stops me from shutting down inside myself.

On Saturday, I send a triumphant text message to our Beefs chat.

AOPi came out on top! Homecoming winners!

LANA

Even though I know you’re supposed to be neutral now, I hope you’re inwardly celebrating

Like I could hide my enthusiasm

AMAYA

YES. It was a crap week at work, and this is exactly the good news I needed

LANA

Aw, I’m sorry, Beef. The real world sucks sometimes

AMAYA

Truth

Need anything? I’ve heard we have some muscle available to rough people up as needed

LANA

AMAYA

Nah, I’m fine. Just an annoying coworker not pulling their weight

Not everyone can be as amazing as you

I’m smiling down at my phone when I hear Bailey’s voice. She’s talking to a group of TriAlphas, so I head over to say hi.

“Hey, Bailey! I should have figured you would be here!” I say.

She smiles at me. “Congrats to AOPi! They did a great job this week.” Her praise seems genuine.I guess that goes to show that anyone can change their ways.

“Are you going to the soccer game?” I ask.

“Nah, I don’t think so,” Bailey responds as the TriAlphas leave to join their group. “You?”

“I was thinking about it, but I’m worn out. Want to go grab an early dinner?” I ask.

Bailey’s eyes momentarily widen with surprise. “Yeah, I would. Thanks, Teegan.”

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