Page 28 of Status Undefined
“No need. I’m going to Amit’s.” I turned my head toward him so suddenly that my neck clicked. Keren and Sean laughed.
“What did you say?” I wasn’t sure I’d heard right.
“I’m coming to your place. You said you want some meaningful interaction, so I’m ready.” Keren’s mouth dropped open.
“I think this evening has been meaningful enough, thank you very much.”
“I don’t think so, Amit.” Keren was serious and I prayed that Sean would take her as far away from me as possible.
“Neither do I,” said Sean.
I didn’t like that guy anymore. I’d have a talk with Naama about him.
“Fine. Do what you want. But I’m tired so don’t expect to be entertaining.”
Daniel looked pleased and I think he high-fived Keren and Sean behind my back.
December 26
(visa expires in 19 days)
When we got to my apartment I went straight to the bathroom and looked in the mirror. I didn’t like what I saw. I needed a shave and there was a zit coming out on my nose. I took off my glasses and rubbed my eyes. They were dry, and it stung. I’m usually good about putting in eyedrops but I’d forgotten that day. Daniel appeared behind me.
“Why didn’t you tell me I look stoned?”
“I’m still in the phase where you always look good to me. I wouldn’t care if you were wearing purple eyeshadow.”
“Ugh. What use are you if you wouldn’t tell me if I have something in my teeth.”
I pushed him out of the room before he could answer. I needed some alone time. I’m not stupid, I knew it was rude. But I was in my own home, at midnight. This was my safe space where I could usually shed all my inhibitions and dance naked or bawl loudly.
I brushed my teeth and went out. Daniel was sitting on the sofa smiling at me.
“Why are you smiling?”
“Why not?”
“You should be offended, demand an apology. Where’s the drama?”
“We don’t have time for drama. It was funny and I’m glad you’re not polite with me. It’s so rare to find directness like that in New York.”
I’d already turned out the lights and was ready to say goodnight and go to sleep. Daniel had other plans.
“Come here.”
I sat down beside him, my mind suddenly racing. Moonlight softened the darkness.
“Do you have music on your phone?”
“Yes, but not the club-vibe variety,” I admitted a little abashed.
He asked to see, and I reluctantly handed it over.
“Better, Stronger, Titanium the slow version – wow, a real anti-depressant playlist.”
“That’s how I cope. Got a problem with it?”
“Not at all. We can dance without music.”
