Page 44 of Love Not Qualified

It’s fine. what happened?

Me

I got drunk. Said some things I shouldn’t have said to my brother. Him and his wife screamed at me. I’m telling you, I fucked it up badly.

Haelyn Ross

well. did you say those things just because you were drunk, or because you truly felt them

Me

I said what I felt, but now I know I was wrong.

Haelyn Ross

I think apologizing would be better than any other grand gesture. just be honest and test the waters first to see if they are still angry in the morning. maybe make them breakfast or something.

I could make banana bread.That wasn’t a bad idea.

Me

Thank you.

Haelyn Ross

you’re welcome.

Me

And I’m sorry for ghosting you.

Haelyn Ross

It’s okay. life gets in the way, just make sure that next time at least tell me you’re still alive *red heart emoji*

Me

Noted.

Haelyn Ross

now go sleep. I’ll talk to you in the morning

I lockedmy phone and got to my feet, then cleaned up the table and washed the dishes.

Somehow, I found myself on the first floor, swinging from side to side on the stairs until I got to Lacey’s room. I slowly entered and was met by complete silence and darkness.

I took my shoes off and sat down next to Lacey.

“Tristan? You smell like you drank a whole tavern,” she croaked out from her sleep.

I chuckled and raised her head and put it on my chest. She was still burning.

“I’m not going to fall asleep like that. I’m not five anymore.”

But then, three minutes later, she was already buried deeply in a dream.

FIFTEEN

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