Page 63 of Four Weekends and a Funeral

10:23 PM

Adam:

Just so you know, I told Sam’s parents we’ll be done this weekend after we paint. They want the keys back when we’re done.

10:25 PM

Alison:

I know. His mom texted me.

10:26 PM

Adam:

Oh.

10:27 PM

Alison:

Can I ask you a personal question?

10:28 PM

Adam:

Do I have a choice?

10:29 PM

Alison:

Before…the “lapse”…

10:29 PM

Adam:

Okay…

10:30 PM

Alison:

You said I was your friend.

Seconds later, Adam’s name glows on my screen. Vibrations buzz against my palm, and I anxiously accept the call.

“What are you fishing for over there, Ali?”

My insides turn to goo at the sound of a nickname in Adam’s gravelly voice.

“I’m not sure what I’m trying to ask.”

Glassware clinks on his end of the line. “So are you keeping me awake to not ask me personal questions?”

“It’s barely after ten! There’s no way you’re falling asleep any time soon. You’re probably drinking coffee right now.”

---