Page 54 of David's Love

It’s so pretty, and now it’s crammed with one hundred bills. Ironic and metaphoric at the same time.

Maybe I should give it all back.

‘That is the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard. You can do better than that,’ the voice inside my head argues.

Sighing, I put it all back and slide the box under the bed. I’ve surely moved this box around the house a lot these past few weeks. I had it in the closet, under the sink––only spent a few days there since I was afraid it might get wet––and under the bed.

It’s practical to have it here, although Chloe almost gave me a heart attack when she picked it up and showed up with it in the kitchen.

Anyway… I won’t solve this problem tonight.

I run to the kitchen and collect my Viking hat before going back to the bedroom.

Just in time to notice David’s message.

David: I’m ready.

My heart beats faster. I'm ready, too.

ELIZABETH

Friday

On campus

Today must bemy lucky day.

I slide my stuff into my backpack and get ready to leave the lecture hall when my phone flashes a message from Chloe.

Chloe: Sorry. The party has been canceled.

I shouldn’t be tempted to do a happy dance, but I'm kind of doing it inwardly.

There must be a reason behind this change, and I'd love to hear more about it, but I can't do it now.

Holding my phone in one hand, I type a message and send it to her.

Me: Things all right?

She doesn’t answer.

I hope they are.

Eventually, her reply arrives.

Chloe: Yes. Everything’s fine. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.

Yes.

I would kiss her if she were here.

We’ll talk tomorrow. Or when I come back.

By then, I could tell her about my trip and fake interview, and this issue would no longer be an issue.

I shrug my jacket on, sling the strap of my backpack over my shoulder, and rush outside. I’m the last student to leave the room.

The front of the building is busy with students making plans for tonight.

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