Page 22 of Embody

“Got it, just like I had it the last time you said it,” he laughs.

“Well, if you’re looking for asmartgirl, maybe you should try looking in a placenamedsomething smart. Just a thought.”

Bugs me every damn time—Rooster’s Nest. What dumbass names their bar that? Oh, I know who…but wouldn’t ever comment aloud. I like my dick attached to my body far too much.

But Fahrenheit is a great band, made up of five local college guys that I’ve seen a play a couple of times. Always a great show, so I agree to go with him.

And tonight, I don’t care if they’re smart. I fully intend to make nice with the first co-ed I meet who takes my mind off Bellamy.

“Hey,” Sutton hollers as I walk down the hall to my room. “Nine o’clock. You wanna do a cab?”

“No, I’ll DD.” I want to stay sober so I don’t wake up with anyone I didn’t intend to.

“Fuck that. I’m not taking a boring, sober, wingman. You’re drinking. I’ll call and set up the cab.”

“Whatever,” I agree just to shut him up, still planning to stay soberanddrive my own car. “I’m gonna grab a shower then sleep for a while. Wake me up by eight.”

“Yep,” he agrees and I shut the bathroom door.

I turn on the water and while I wait for it to really heat up, I like my showers hot, I send Brynn a text to check on her.

 

Me: The parentals set you down and grill you?

 

If they did question her, they must be done because she answers right away.

 

Brynn: They didn’t mention it again. Shocked. Think Mom pretty much put everything she wanted to say out there. I know you said we’re good, but are we really? What Mom said…is she right? Please tell me, JT.

 

Me: Yes, about some of it. I would do anything for you, but I’m not miserable. That's a stretch. I met her twice. Think I’ll recover.

 

Brynn: Okay, as long as you say so. But I’m starting to feel really guilty. I was being unfair. I’m really sorry about that.

 

Me: Yeah, you were, but you realize it and have now apologized. You’re forgiven, forget the whole thing. My decision was all my own, swear. I could’ve fought you on it, I am choosing not to. Now stop worrying, I gotta go. Big plans tonight, which will have her well forgotten.

 

Brynn: Have fun, be safe. Love you…very much.

 

Me: Love you too.

 

I strip and hop in the shower, praying that was the last conversation I ever have to have on the subject. I took my dog out of the fight, it’s done, over. And it’ll be a helluva lot easier to live with that decision if everyone will kindly shut the hell up about it.

 

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