Page 32 of How You See Me
“You’re right. I take it back.”
“No. You don’t get to do that.” She jabs at the space between us. “If you want me to keep shining, I want you to speak your mind. This trip will be a lot easier if you tell me what you’re thinking. Open line of communication.”
Not going to happen. There are some thoughts that should never be voiced, but I can be myself, which is what she’s asking. I think.
“Okay.”
Satisfied with her victory, she grins. “Are you sure? No take backs.”
“I can handle your full glow.”
“You say that now.”
???
Josie is MIA. I’ve already loaded her suitcase, supplies, and easel into the van, and I’ve been leaning against the van long enough for my leg to cramp.
With nothing else to do, I text Jordan.
Me:Leaving soon.
Jordan:I heard. Also heard she wasn’t ready when you got there. Sorry. She’s never on time.
Me:No problem. She told me she’d be out in 5 minutes. How long is that in Josie time?
Jordan:20 easy.
Me:Great.
Jordan:I’ll call her and light a fire.
Me:Not necessary. I can be patient.
Jordan:Since when?
Me:Shut up.
Jordan:Calling her. Hang tight.
Me:Goes along with being patient,which I can do.
Jordan:Ha.
My blood pressure ticks up a notch with every passing minute, despite my desire to go with the flow. The sun may be on the descent, but it’s still roasting my back and adding to my mounting irritation.
This entire trip will be a constant test of control. Mine. Hers. Whatever the hell sparked between us that we’ve silently agreed to ignore.
“I’m coming. I’m coming,” Josie shouts, barreling out the door with a large, colorful bag draped over her shoulder.
Locating me in the parking lot, she stops in the middle of the road.
“What are you doing?”
She points at the van behind me. “That’s yours?”
“Is there a problem?”
Her head shakes slowly, eyes glassy. Is she crying? I swear. She’s going to give me a heart attack. I’m only thirty-three. That’s too young.
