Page 2 of Introvert

I wanted this.

Plus, technically, Freya was lead violin, and I'd just be backup. But I was good with that.Sogood. My super-talented, confident cousin would no doubt draw everyone's attention, and I could just do me in the background. I was the quiet Kent cousin, soit worked out perfectly.

I was reading the texts again when my phone rang.

"Hey, Mom," I said.

"Hi, baby," she said, "how's it going?"

"Good."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah."

"Okay, I just wanted to check in.Did you get my text?"

I bit my lip.

"It's not too late to change your mind.Ifyou want us to come back, it'sno problem.We'll just turn this car around and—"

"Mom, I see you," I said.

"Excuse me?"

"I can see you at the edge of the lot.You and Dad haven't even left yet."

"Oh," she said sheepishly. "Well, your father was a little nervous."

Dad scoffed.

"You know how he gets."

"I do," I said. "Mushy with goodbyes."

"The mushiest," she said back.

"Whatever," he said. "You're our kid, and we love you, Ror."

"You're also a brilliant violinist—the best ever—and that band is lucky to have you," Momsaid. "I just…want to make sure this isreally what you want and that you're okay."

"I am," I said again, willing myself to believe it.

"Hmmm.Hey, Aurora?"

"Yeah, Mom?"

"Why aren't you on the bus?"

"What?"

"You're still where we dropped you off," she said softly.

"I know." I swallowed. "I was waiting for Freya to get here."

"Have you heard from your cousin today?"

"No, but you guys can go. I'm sure she'll be here any minute."

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