Page 137 of Relationship Goals

Abigail

The Atlanta airportis, bar none, one of the worst places I have ever been. There are so many freaking people, and I’m grateful for the anonymity afforded by my oversize sweatshirt (thank you, midnight insomnia purchase) and my oldest pair of Levis.

No one is looking twice at me.

I text Jean quickly.

Abigail:I’m here

Abigail:No problems at all, other than Atlanta’s humidity which might actually kill me

Jean:Enjoy it

Jean:This is probably one of the last times you’ll be able to travel commercial without people bothering you

I swallow around the anxious lump in my throat at that. My hands shake, and I cross one over my chest to hold steady as I keep an eye out for my luggage.

Jean:You’re going to do great, hon. I’m proud of you

I blink back surprise at that.

Abigail:Thanks, Jean. I wouldn’t be here without you

Jean:You would. But I’m glad you chose me to be a part of it with you

Abigail:Do not make me start crying in the airport

Abigail:Wait, am I sure this is Jean? You didn’t sign your texts. Is this an imposter?

Jean sends a string of wind emojis.

Abigail:I literally have no idea what that means

Jean:I’m blowing you

Jean:Kisses

I decide not to touch that one with a ten-foot pole.

Luckily for me, my bag is finally making it around on the luggage conveyor belt. The bag’s overpacked, and I grit my teeth as I lug it off, trying my best not to hit the people reaching for their bags next to me.

My phone buzzes in my back pocket, and my first thought—the way it has been for weeks now—is of Luke.

Is it him? Finally reaching out and apologizing?

The disappointment hasn’t gotten easier, and it’s not this time, either, though I’m happy to see Michelle’s name on my screen.

Michelle:Did you make it okay? Miss you already! My office is so boring without you

Abigail:Just landed, about to find my driver

Michelle:Love this for you SO. MUCH

Abigail:I’m excited to impress everyone with how much you taught me

Abigail:And I’m glad I can count you as a friend

It’s a little squishy, a little too earnest, even for me…but I mean it. Sure, Luke and I didn’t work out, but at least I’m lucky enough to have walked away from the Aces with a new friend.

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