Page 21 of Love You Madly

As I close my eyes, I can’t help but smile. Despite everything—Adam’s betrayal, the stress of figuring out my life—there’s a part of me that’s ready for this new beginning. Maybe it’s time to embrace it. Time for Taylor and me to start our own tradition, just like Mom and her sisters had their “Sisters’ Weekends” when we were kids. Maybe this trip is exactly what I need to clear my head and move forward.

ten

THE CROSSROADS - BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY

OWEN - MAY 18, 2013

The morning after my turnout party, sunlight filters through the blinds, casting a soft glow across the room. I stretch, the dull throb of a slight hangover reminding me of last night’s celebration. It’s a small price to pay for the overwhelming sense of accomplishment and the camaraderie that filled the air.

I shuffle to the kitchen, making a cup of my favorite coffee from BB Coffee Co., letting the rich aroma wake me up as I settle at the table. As the hot liquid slides down my throat, I scroll through my phone, catching up on the flood of messages from friends and family congratulating me on completing my apprenticeship.

I shoot off a quick text to Mom, letting her know I’ll come get Barrett in about an hour, giving him some extra playtime before we meet for lunch. I take another sip of coffee, savoring the quiet before the day starts. Then, my phone buzzes with a message from the group chat.

Luke:

Hey, fuckers! Sorry I had to bail out before you could buy me breakfast. Got called to an outage in Davenport around 7:30 this morning. They had some pretty rough storms last night so it’s all hands on deck.

Me:

I’m shocked you were able to get up this morning. Were you even sober when you woke up?

Will:

Your dumbass better not have gotten on that motorcycle still drunk.

Luke:

Chill out, Daddy Dearest. Gotta make that money!

Vince:

PREACH! Wish I could’ve been there last night, but kids aren’t cheap, and I can’t pass up doubles. Sorry I missed it, Owen.

Luke:

And, for the record, I was good to go after I downed some water and ibuprofen before I took off. Sooo, Owen… what about Heather? Are you going to text her or what?

Will:

For fuck’s sake, Luke. Leave the man alone.

Luke:

Fuck you, Will.

Vince:

Wait! Who’s Heather?!

Luke:

A fucking dime piece that slipped Owen her number at the bar last night.

Me:

Luke, don’t you dare text her. I know how you are with numbers and I guarantee no matter how drunk you were last night, you remember the phone number on that fucking napkin.

Vince:

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