Page 67 of Time To Live Again

“Okay, I’m ready. Welcome back!” His enthusiasm to see me brightens my mood. It’s nice to know you’re loved.

I flash a bright smile and fluff my hair. “What do you think? Do I look different?”

“You’re much happier than last time. Show me your back. Did you lose the shell?”

“I’m proud to report it’s gone, and it’s never coming back.”

He leans closer. “Wait a sec. Did you dye your hair?”

I pull my hair forward to show him the dyed ends. “I had a little makeover while I was there. Bought some new clothes and shoes too. You’re looking at the new, improved me. You’d be proud.”

“I want details because it’s obvious you were holding out on me with your ‘I’m fine’ texts. You’re more than fine, sis. So was it worth it?”

“Above and beyond. It was the best week of my life, Andy. I’m so thankful I went.” I sound lovesick. I might as well be throwing flowers in the air.

His eyes bug out of his head. “Holy shit! You met someone, didn’t you?” He snaps his fingers. “Oh, the guy in the picture, right? What was his name again?”

“Yes,” I squeal. “His name’s Leo, and he’s amazing.”

“Sounds like someone’s in luuurve. Your face is as bright as a lightbulb.”

I wiggle in my seat, finding it hard to contain my excitement.

“How? When? What? Give me the details. And again, does he have a sister?”

“You’re a freak. Yes, he does, and no, she’s not your type. She’d eat you alive.”

He growls. “I kinda like that.”

I grimace. “I don’t want to know.” He flashes me a shit-eating grin. “Anyway, there’s a lot to tell you, but I’ll wait until you have more time. Just know that I feel amazing, and the decision to run away has changed my life.”

“That’s what I wanted to hear.” He glances at his watch. “I hate living in San Fran sometimes. I’d love to show up at your apartment whenever I wanted. I’m going to have to wait to get the dirty details because I have to go back to the stupid meeting. I’m happy for you, Olive. I told you something amazing was going to happen. You deserve it.”

I twist a strand of hair around my finger. “Thanks. Call me when you can.”

“Quick question. Have you called Mom?”

“Not yet. I was waiting until I spoke to you. Any advice?” I ask, dreading his response.

He smooths out his hair and adjusts his navy blue paisley tie. “Umm…be honest with her and don’t let her bring you down. Personally, I think she needs therapy or some kind of support group, but what do I know? Maybe she’ll surprise us.”

“If you talk to her, don’t mention Leo unless she does. I’m not sure what I’m going to tell her yet. I think I should keep him a secret for now,” I say, nibbling on my thumb.

He picks up the phone and hurries to the door. “Nuh-uh. Back up. No secrets. This is yourlife. You’re happy, and you shouldn’t have to hold back your excitement. Moms should be uplifting and want to see their kids thriving and happy.” Marla said something similar.

“Listen to you! Have you been reading self-help books or something?”

His brows furrow. “I have no clue where that came from, but it’s true. Okay, I really gotta run. Talk soon. Love ya.”

“Love you too,” I say, too late. He’s already gone.

No secrets. Andy’s right. If Mom can’t be happy for me, then that’s her problem.

Maybe I’m being too hard on her.

I call her an hour later, but it’s the shortest call in history. Fifteen minutes later, my doorbell rings as I’m wiping down the kitchen counter. I take a deep breath and pray for help and patience…and then I swing open the door, a smile plastered on my face.

“Hey, Mom. How are?—”

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