Page 93 of One Night

"Why? What happened?"

"During dessert, we were talking about school and Lark said something about how I'm really good in art and then he put his arm around me and it totally set dad off. He told Lark to leave."

"So did he leave?"

"No. Mom told Dad he was overreacting and then..." She sighs.

"They got in a fight."

"Yes. With Lark there. It was so embarrassing. You told me they wouldn't fight in front of him."

"I didn't think they would. So what did you do?"

"I told Lark we're leaving."

"And did you?"

"We went outside but I didn't leave. If I did, it would've just made Mom and Dad fight even more. I apologized to Lark and then he left."

"Britt, I'm sorry. I figured Dad would question the guy but not tell him to leave. So have you talked to Lark since he left?"

"Yeah, and he was cool with everything. But I doubt he'll come over here again. Hey, Mom wants to say hi. I'm handing you over."

My mom's voice comes through the phone. "Hi, honey. How was dinner?"

"Good." I glance over at Dylan. "Dylan's family was really nice. And they made sure I left there completely stuffed."

"You'll have to give me their address. I'd like to send them a thank-you note."

"Mom, you don't have to do that. I already thanked them."

"I know, but as your mother I'd like to thank them for inviting you. It always upsets me when you're alone on Thanksgiving."

I wouldn't be alone if you and Dad would stop fighting. I'd be home, where I should be. I think that but I don't say it.

"So Britt said she had a friend over."

My mom sighs. "Yes, but your father overreacted when Lark put his arm around Britt. Scared the poor boy away, which I suppose was your father's intention but it wasn't called for. Lark seemed like a very nice young man. Speaking of young men, how are you and Dylan doing?"

"Fine."

"Is it getting serious?"

"No. We're just dating." I feel Dylan looking at me and change the subject. "So anything else new?"

"Not really. I have to put away all the leftovers and then I'm going to take a nap. What are you doing the rest of the night?"

"Dylan's coming over to watch TV."

"Do you two have plans for this weekend?"

"No. I have to catch up on homework."

"Honey, you need to relax. Just take this weekend off. Spend time with Dylan."

"I'll think about it. Well, I should go. Tell Dad I said hi."

"I will. Bye, honey."

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