Page 56 of June

“What did you learn on your road trip?”

“Oh, God. So much. I had to change my own flat tire because I got one in the middle of nowhere, and there was no internet, so I had to just guess and hope I got it right until I got to the first mechanic I could find in the desert. I learned that I can be on my own and like myself and that I really liked art more than I thought I did or could. I learned a few things about sex, too, if I’m being honest. There’s more, but–”

Viv laughed and said, “See? I can’t change a flat tire.”

“It’s just changing a flat tire. It’s not that hard.”

“But you learned things about yourself, too. You went out by yourself on the open road and explored the world.” Viv held out the book she’d put down when Caroline had first looked down at her and added, “I’ve learned about the world through books. I don’t know what Las Vegas looks like in person. I’ve never gambled illegally there.”

“I did that once, and I didn’t win anything.”

“But you’ve done it, and you risked getting into trouble just to do it. I’ve never had the courage or guts todoanything. I have plans, and I’m happy with who I am, so that’s fine with me, and I’m young, so I’m still learning, but you’re wise, too, Caroline. It’s just different.”

“You’re even wise for recognizing that.”

Caroline’s phone pinged, so instantly, she shot back into her bed and grabbed it.

“God, you’re going to pull a muscle if you keep doing that,” Viv said, laughing.

Enid Becker: I had a great time, too. What are you doing right now?

“She wants to know what I’m doing right now.”

“Tell her you’re interrupting your roommate, who just wants to read her book and go to sleep,” Viv said.

Caroline laughed and replied, “It’s not even late.”

“I didn’t say I was going to read apageand fall asleep,” Viv countered.

Caroline thought about what to say to Enid. Then, she typed.

Enid Becker: I’m watching a movie with my family.

Caroline smiled and typed back.

Caroline Timothy: What movie?

Enid Becker:The Goonies.

Caroline Timothy: Never seen it.

Enid Becker: What?!

“Viv, have you ever seenThe Goonies?”

“Once. It was on TV. Why?”

“Enid’s watching it right now.”

Enid Becker: How have you never seenThe Goonies? My parents love it, and my brother and I have watched it at least a hundred times.

“I guess they watch it a lot. Should I see this movie?”

“It’s a classic,” Viv said.

“That’s not an answer.”

“Find it online and watch it right now, if you want. Just use headphones,” Viv suggested.

---