Page 98 of Before We're More Than Friends
That was it. Nothing else.
I let out a breath, not sure if it was a gasp or a sigh of relief.
Chloe
Where the hell have you freaking been?
What happened to make you fall off the face of the earth and not even check our messages for almost three weeks?
Were you sick for that long?
Why did you leave me?
It was harsh, but I also had the right to be upset that he ghosted me. He’d never gone more than a few days without messaging me, except for the time when he went on a cruise without internet or cell signal. Something was wrong, and it wasn’t in my head this time.
Alex
I’m sorry I haven’t reached out since I moved here. Everything caught up to me and I kind of . . . blanked. I’m a terrible friend. But I freaking missed you the entire time. And I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you when your dad was arrested—and I’m sorry that happened. I’m sorry for all of it, but I know that word can’t make up for ghosting you.
Hope filled my chest. But I wasn’tcompletely sold.
Chloe
You’ve been acting weird ever since the whole name incident, and I know it’s not in my head. My entire life has changed, and for the first time, you weren’t there for me. There’s something you aren’t telling me.
Alex
What makes you think I’m hiding something?
Because I’m not. I’ve had issues with my family and making friends and didn’t have any energy left in me.
Guilty. Guilty as charged.
Chloe
I don’t know what to believe.
Alex
So I’m lying to you?
Chloe
No! But you haven’t been yourself since I mentioned meeting each other in real life and sharing our names. I’m sorry I’m coming off strong, but can you please just tell me what’s wrong? I’m not trying to be selfish.
Alex
You already know what’s wrong—I’m going through a hard time. And you are too. I wanted to give us space.
The hope inside me deflated.
Chloe
Space? Why would we need space? We’ve been through hard times before. What you’re saying isn’t lining up.
Alex
So I am lying?
