Page 80 of Now That We Don't Talk

“No—and yes.” I sigh, rubbing my eyes. “I don’t know.”

And that’s the truth. I don’t know. This whole situation has left me feeling uncertain and confused. I never expected my feelings for Mac to develop so quickly, and maybe that’s part of the problem. Maybe I got swept up in the excitement, in the thrill of falling for someone I never thought possible. Honestly, it would make a great romcom movie.

But this isn’t a movie. This is my life. And in real life, there isn’t always a happily ever after.

“Anyway, I just wanted to let you know,” I say after a pause. “But can you do something for me?”

“Of course. Anything.”

“Please talk to Kyle. Tell him to stop fighting with Mac.”

“I was already planning on it,” she assures me. “I told Mac the same thing.”

“Good. Thank you.”

“Everything will be fine,” she assures me.

“I know,” I reply unconvincingly. “Anyway, I need to get ready for work. I’ll talk to you later.”

As I hang up, I feel a bit better. If anyone can fix things, it’s Katie.

One way or another everything will work out the way it’s supposed to.

As soon as I step through the front door, my phone starts buzzing. I set my bag down on the counter and check the screen. It’s my mother, so I take a deep breath before answering.

"Hi, Mom," I say, turning on the speaker.

"Hi, honey. How are you?"

"I’m good. Just got home from work. How’s it going there?

"Very busy," she replies. "Your father and I are running bingo night here in the building. It’s been a lot of work but so much fun."

I smile as I collapse onto the couch. The thought of my parents in charge of bingo night is interesting. Retirement really suits them.

"Wow," I say. "You two are really living your best life, huh?"

She laughs. "I guess we are."

I start to take off my shoes as she continues talking.

"Apparently, you’re doing the same," she says, her voice suddenly full of knowing amusement. "Jaclyn told me your news."

I sit up straight.My news?

A slow, sinking feeling settles in my stomach as I realize what she’s talking about. My sister must’ve told her about Mac.

"Honestly, I wasn’t that surprised," Mom continues. "It makes complete sense for you and Mac to get together—you’ve been in each other’s orbit for years. And let’s be real, he’s very good-looking. Your children will be gorgeous."

Oh no. Make it stop.

I drop my head into my hand and groan. I need to shut this down before she starts talking about mother of the bride dresses.

"Mom—Mac and I have decided to just be friends." I say it quickly, like ripping off a Band-Aid.

She’s silent for a few seconds. "Why?"

"Because he’s going back to Tennessee. His life is hectic and non-stop, and it just wasn’t going to work."

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