Page 86 of Unspoken Rules

There’s music playing over the speakers, but it isn’t loud yet. Enough that we can have conversations without yelling. Once the bands come on, I doubt we’ll be able to hear anything.

“I’m nervous about him being here,” I whisper to Mila.

She nods, glancing at the bar. “He’s a big boy,” she says, looking back at me. “He makes his own decisions.”

I swear, she keeps this mindset so she doesn’t get hurt. I know they both love one another. They’ve loved each other since they first set eyes on each other, but that isn’t enough for everyone. No one knows what goes on with them, or if anything ever has. Maybe though they have feelings for one another, they’re strong enough to admit they aren’t right for the other.

Like I should do with Cole.

Like I have to do with Cole.

I throw my arm around Mila, and she puts hers around my waist.

“You know, I only came because you were coming,” she says, looking up at me.

“Really?” I ask.

“Yeah, I don’t come to many of Mark’s shows anymore. I love supporting him, but it’s not my scene. I thought you may want the company.”

I kiss her head and squeeze her to me. “Love you, Mila.”

She giggles. “Love you too, Bry. Want a drink?”

“Soda maybe.”

She heads to the bar, and I mingle with the group of guys over here. I recognize a lot of them from high school and from Mark’s party but can’t remember most of their names. A few of them are with girls, but there aren’t any girls hanging out alone. Mila is the only one. I’ll stick by her side to make sure she doesn’t feel uncomfortable and to make sure no one gets handsy with her if they drink too much. I’m not a fighter, but I will not stand for someone groping someone who doesn’t want it.

Mila returns a moment later with a soda for each of us.

“Let’s sit over here.” I point to a table a few feet away that’s smaller and with a clear view of the stage. We sit on the same side so we can chat.

“I had an interview the other day.”

“You did?” Her eyes brighten. “That’s great. How did it go? Where was it? For what?”

“Same old Mila with the rapid-fire questions.” She slaps my chest playfully.

“I think it went well. I was supposed to hear from them this afternoon but haven’t yet.”

“I’m sure they’re just busy.”

I nod. “It’s a graphic design position at an ad agency.”

“That sounds fun.”

“Fun?” I laugh. “Sure.” I take a sip of my drink. “How’s work going for you?”

“It’s work. Thinking of going back to school.”

“All the way?”

She nods, fiddling with her straw. “I thought I’d be worried about having all the responsibility, but after being there, I realize I may like it.”

“Oh, come on. Did you really think you’d be able to get by in life without being in charge?”

She gasps and swats me again.

“Hey, it’s a compliment!” I laugh.

---