Page 6 of Until We Break

“I’m sorry,” Margot whispered. “They really aren’t that nosey, but I think we surprised them or something.”

I shrugged. “It’s ok.”

“Is it?” she asked.

I knew what she meant. That moment had been jerked away from us. I wasn’t stupid enough to try to kiss her now, knowing her mom and uncle were on the other side of the door.

“Yeah. I get it. But you know what I didn’t get?”

Margot twisted her pretty lips together. “What’s that?” There was a hint of defeat in her voice.

“Your number.”

The frown turned into a gentle smile. “Even with the awkward family porch crash, you want my number?”

“Maybe I like awkward,” I teased. I didn’t like it. For some reason, I was already lying for this girl.

She pulled her phone from her back pocket. “Ok, if you like awkward then you can have it, but only if you promise to use it.”

I chuckled. It was cute. “Hit me.” I recited my number to her, and she sent a quick text.

We smiled when my phone buzzed. “At least I know it’s your real number.”

“You think I’d give you the wrong number in front of you? Come on.” I winked and damn if she didn’t blush.

The porch light flickered again and there was an audible groan.

“I’m sorry. I better go in. I don’t know why but Uncle Walt is standing there.” She pointed at him through the small circle window next to the door.

I reached for a cigarette and cupped my hand around the lighter.

“You know those things will kill you, don’t you?”

I stopped and looked at her. “I guess you’re right.” I shoved the lighter and unlit cigarette into my back pocket. “Everyone has a vice.”

“I don’t know that I do.” She said it plainly and matter-of-factly.

Suddenly, I was even more intrigued. Who didn’t have something they were drawn to? Something they knew they shouldn’t do or drink or consume? There wasn’t anyone on Marshoak who could say that.

“Hang out on this island long enough and that will change, Margot.”

She shook her head. “Not a chance.”

I cleared my throat. “All right. I’ll text you later. You better get in there. Goodnight.”

I knew better than to try for a kiss again. I had given up. Walt Shepherd had killed the moment.

“Goodnight, Caleb.” She pulled on the handle of the squeaky screen door.

I jumped off the porch, gravel crunching under my shoes, and headed for the dark path that would take me back to the main road. I retrieved the cigarette and the lighter. The end glowed orange as soon as I took my first inhale. The cicadas were loud, nearly deafening along the path. I looked over my shoulder before I turned the corner, but Margot had gone inside and left the porch light on.

I didn’t believe in vibes or shit like that, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that this girl was going to change my life.

THREE

Margot

SEVEN YEARS LATER

---