Page 13 of Ours to Lose
The rocks that had filled my stomach compressed into one massive lump between my ribs, even as my mouth watered. Dad’s French toast was the best. His sandwiches and eggs too. Anything he cooked.
Here he was, wanting to cook forme, to spoil and take care of me. To treat me like I hadn’t been MIA for two years. Like I hadn’t abandoned him. Like I still deserved his love despite the holidays I’d missed and excuses I’d made.
Like loving me was as easy for him as it had always been.
Of all the ways tonight had been painful, that might have been the worst.
Chapter Three
Tuesday, Jan 9 · 8:21 p.m.
Gabe
Just landed
Aubrey liked a message.
Aubrey
How’s the altitude? Dizzy yet?
Gabe
No, but I could put it to the test. Maybe go for a run, hit the booze?
Aubrey
Definitely the run. If you end up puking, you don’t want to waste all that good Colorado beer.
Gabe
See, these are the important considerations I count on you for
Aubrey
You’re welcome
Friday, Jan 12 · 6:31 p.m.
Gabe
Noah’s completely in his element. He’s going to crush this selection
Aubrey
Woo-hoo! He’s doing well so far?
Gabe
The best I’ve seen him
Aubrey
I’m wishing him luck
Thursday, Jan 18 · 4:12 p.m.
Aubrey
