Page 328 of Glass (Crank 2)

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break, so even though it’s very late, a lot of

people flow along the main avenues. Strangers.

They’re strangers, but I don’t care. I want to be

among them. Flow with them. Bodies. Faces.

Most from any place but here. I like looking

at the faces. All races. Expressions. Joyful (winners).

Hateful (losers). Confused (users). Suddenly

a single face falls into focus. Familiar. Loved.

“Chase!” I run toward him, parting the crowd.

He sees me. Smiles. Frowns. Half-waves.

I see now he’s walking with someone. Holding her

hand. She’s prettier than me. And she’s pregnant.

What Do I Do Now?

I want to turn. Flee.

Act cowardly. But we’re

practically touching.

[Play the game.] “Hey,

Chase. Long time, no see.”

He drops the girl’s hand,

dares to reach out and hug

me. God, it’s good to see

you. He backs away. Oh,

this is my wife, Amanda.

Wife? Yep. Matching

gold bands. [Don’t you

dare cry. Suck it up.]

“Hi, Amanda. I’m Kristina.

Chase and I…are friends.”

Amanda tosses her long

blond hair. Smiles. Good

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