Page 7 of Faking Forever 1
I ordered two yogurts—one lime-flavored with mango chunks and sea salt flakes and the other plain banana-flavored.
I never understood her yogurt order. I always thought it was disgusting. That says a lot since I’ll consume anything on most days. Despite my judgment, she’s gotten the same thing since wewere kids. At some point, you have to respect the commitment. Regardless, the stinker still attempts to steal 22
HEY LOVER
some of mine every single time.
We both took a board from the store and walked down to the beach to eat before surfing. Although I was more than thrilled to have her in my presence again, I was dreading the questions about my college decisions. I never bothered to create an excuse. So, with that in mind, this should be interesting.
“I got your favorite…” I glance at her, taking a bite of mine.
I hope it’s still your favorite. Otherwise, I’m in trouble,” I admit, cracking a half smile.
“Josh, it’s fine. I don’t care,” she assures me, “But itisstill my favorite.” She then elbows me.
I hum, watching her.
“I can’t believe I’m really back in Jersey. It’s been way too long.” she continues, shaking her head.
“Youcan’t? For a moment there, I thought you weren’t coming back at all.” I shrug, responding.
“Let’s just say the year ended up being a lot longer than I expected.” her voice simmers down.
The enthusiasm didn’t seem to be anywhere in that sentence.
“Hey, well,” I elbow her, flashing a warm smile, “You’re here now, right? Y’know, things were getting a little too quiet around here without you loud-mouthing me all day.”
“Eh, I mean, IguessI missed you too.” she gloats.
She’s literally glowing. Not in a beach tan kind of way. Just in a healthy way.Eitherway, it didn’t matter because she was stunning. I can’t help but watch her exist.
“So, you gonna tell me why you’re being so secretive?” she makes a swift effort to pry at my thoughts.
Here we go.
“I uh—I went to surfing camp.”
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FAKING FOREVER
“Surfing camp.”
“Yeah.”
She stares at me.
“Well?” she asks.
“Well, when I came back, I guess Denver felt like it was too much for me,” I say tightly.
“Since when was cooking too much for you?” she quietly presses me.
Since I have no other excuse.
“I don’t know.” I allow myself to let it all out, “At the time, it seemed like a big move. Now, you could say I’m just too comfortable.” I shrug, taking another bite.
She rests her cup on her lap, still staring at me. I was sure to keep my eyes on anything, but her, now.
