Page 68 of Love in the Lab
Not really. Why? Isn’t she with you this weekend?
Molly:
Yes, but she’s not acting like herself
Nicole:
What do you mean?
Molly:
I don’t know. She always acts so unshakable, but now…
Nicole:
??
Molly:
She’s shook
Nicole:
Hmm. Let’s talk to her together when we’re home for Thanksgiving
Molly:
Good idea
Molly:
You’re bringing Adam, right?
Nicole:
Yes! He’s excited
I answer with a thumbs-up then busy myself setting up the air mattress for Olivia. I’m not sure who won the coin toss between the love seat and the air mattress, but one of my guests will need it.
Then I change into my pajamas while I wait for my turn in the bathroom. Before long, Olivia slips out, avoiding eye contact. It’s best to give her time and space when she’s upset, so I go to the bathroom and brush my teeth.
When I’m done, Olivia is sitting on the couch in the dark living room.
“Goodnight, Livvy,” I call out.
I hear the smallest sigh, and then she answers. “Night, sissy.”
I’ve just gotten comfortable under the covers when Olivia quietly climbs into bed next to me.
“Can I sleep with you?” she whispers.
“Of course,” I whisper back.
As we settle in, I’m again transported into my memories of Olivia as a child and the many nights she would sneak into bed with me after lights out. Though brave and bold in the daylight,even as a child, Olivia always seemed her most vulnerable at night. I’m not sure Nicole, or even our parents, knew how often she would snuggle up with me like this. She’s never been great about sharing her feelings, but if I can support her through this simple comfort, I’ll take it.
I don’t know what happened tonight to upset Olivia. Maybe Nicole and I can get to the bottom of it when we’re home for Thanksgiving in a few weeks.
After the weekend, when Olivia and Annie go home, I still don’t know why my sister was so upset. It’s a busy week at work, though, and I have to put it out of my mind.
