Page 48 of Ever's Last
“I’d like that,” Anne says as she sits back down at the table.
“Well, thank you, Anne, for breakfast, but we have to get back. We have a finale date to prepare for.”
“That’s today?” I didn’t realize they were wrapping up so soon.
“Yeah.” But my dad doesn’t elaborate.
“Some of the girls weren’t happy with him or Skye. Some dropped out, some stayed because of contracts.”
Thank you, Ivy.
“Well, I hope he finds happiness.” And a little piece of me dies. Yes, I wasted years, but I still care about him. A little part of me wishes it was me, but I can’t. Not after the lies and betrayal. Skye came to my room, even after the fair and how she pushed me around. She came to apologize and Memphis didn’t.
I hug my dad and Ivy and sit on the porch, watching his car disappear around the bend.
“He loves you.”
“I know.”
“I think you’ll do well in college and with your new adventures.”
“Thank you for helping me and being a part of it.”
“If you’re going to apologize again, don’t.” Anne laughs. I probably was going to.
“Well we have a couple of months to prepare. And you can go back to your dad’s whenever you want.”
“I don’t think I can.”
“And you are welcome here as long as you want. I made sure that was okay with your dad. I know he worries about you.”
“I appreciate this. I do need to go to the store. I need some new clothes and luggage.”
“Get ready, I’ll grab my purse.”
I guess it’s a day out for me. I hardly ever buy new clothes, but I have some money saved up that my dad wouldn’t take and I do need suitcases to pack. I think it will be a fun day and a way for me to forget.
Chapter Thirty
Memphis
“Today is the day we’ve been waiting for. Who will Memphis choose? It’s been a long road to love onChicken Fried Love, but Memphis, have you made a decision?” Carlton stares at me while I think about my life in thirty seconds and how far I’ve fallen down the rabbit hole.
“I have.”
“Let’s bring out Skye first.” I nearly laugh. We’ve talked a lot about the past and the choices we’ve made. I think we’re in a good place. As friends. I was surprised at how fast she turned around in favor of Ever. People really can change, Skye is proof.
I watch her walk up and need to put on my game face. The world still thinks I hate her.
“Skye, Memphis has made his decision. I’ll give you two your time.” Carlton walks off behind the camera.
“Satan, I mean Skye. I don’t need more than a few minutes to tell you that I have no idea how you made it to the end. We all know I’m not running the show. I’m not that into you.”
“Jerk.” She slaps me. Way to go all out in the performance.
“And cut.”
“Ouch.” I rub my cheek.
