Page 189 of Treacherous
On the back of the photo is Willow’s handwriting.
I printed this photo out as a reminder that the right person for me was out in the world. You were one of the reasons I officially dumped my ex-boyfriend. Our time at the beach caused an epiphany. It was also the first time I admitted to myself that I would like to kiss you again.
I inhale sharply. After Willow and I left the beach, I hibernated in my room for days. Guilt consumed me. My girlfriend had only been buried for three months and here I was, wanting to kiss Willow.
It was betrayal to Allison, especially when the person we fought most about was Willow.
I pin the photograph to my corkboard before lying in bed. Melting into the mattress, I flick my eyes shut, hoping to dream of a future where Willow and I are together.
30th March
I leave my own note the day before the Frozen Four.
The first part is written on a sticky note. It is three words but those are the only ones I want Willow to hear.
I love you.
I stick it onto her matcha powder and head back into my room.
The second part of the note I spent yesterday making. I scoured my music app, finding every song that reminds me of Willow. Some are about her fearless nature, while others are about my love for her. Many of the songs have been on repeat over the past month because it was the closest I could be to her.
After the notes she gave me, I wanted to do something for her. Our relationship is important to me, and I need Willow to know that she will always come first.
I sent her a text message with the link minutes ago, my knuckles turning white from my grip on the phone.
I don’t look away when bubbles appear on the screen. My shoulders bunch, reaching my ears, and every muscle in my body is tense.
Willow:
I’m glad I’m not home right now because I would break your door down and jump into bed with you.
Me:
Feel free to do it at any time, Sweetheart.
I’ll be waiting.
Willow:
I’m listening to it and I think I might cry in the library.
The bubbles return for an eternity.
Willow:
I miss you
Me:
I miss you too
I drop my phone on the bed, placing it face down. After tomorrow, Willow and I will be have a long conversation. One that is severely overdue. But first, the Frozen Four.
Chapter 35
Jayden Allen
“Listen up, everyone!” I say, my voice bouncing off the locker room walls.
