Page 49 of Protecting Bianca

“Bye, babe.”

He left, and I stayed for a few minutes, just smiling at the ceiling like a fool. Funny enough, his words made me want totext Ruby. I turned and grabbed my phone and noticed the six missed calls from my brother and three from Lizzie.

Crap.

I called Lizzie first.

“Oh, thank God, you’re alive.”

“Why wouldn’t I be alive?

“Bianca, we’ve been calling you since you left the wedding upset last night and didn’t come home. We were worried about you.”

“Shit. You’re right. I’m sorry.”

There was a pause. “I was really scared. I’ve never seen you like that.”

“I know. I try to hide what I feel most times, but it’s hard around her. It’s just so overwhelming and I can’t control my emotions.”

“Are you better today? Are you all right now?”

“Lizzie, I’m more than all right. I am fabulous.”

“Wait…what…uh…what happened after you left with Jager?”

I waited, not saying a word, and smiled as I heard Lizzie piece it together.

“Did you and Jager…did you guys…?”

“Yes.”

She squealed, and I pulled the phone away from my ear. “Well, I didn’t think you’d take it that well.”

“If you and Jager had a fabulous night, then I couldn’t be happier for you. You deserve some fun, girl.”

“I do. It’s been a while for sure.”

“So, what are you guys doing today? Are you staying at his place?”

“No, we stayed at a hotel last night.”

“Oh, that’s romantic.”

“It was.”

“Hold up.” There was a muffled sound on the other end of the line. “Yes, I’m talking to Bianca. She’s fine. Well, I’d say better than fine.”

I chuckled.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Lizzie admonished.

“What did River say?”

“That it was irresponsible of you…blah, blah, blah. It’s fine. You’re fine. That’s all that matters.”

“I should have answered my phone. But no, I don’t regret leaving. I couldn’t take it anymore.”

“I’m sorry. I feel like it’s not my place to say anything to your mom.”

---