Page 87 of Keep My Heart
‘Fine. I’m over at Diane’s place. She had to run an errand so I’m watching the kids.’
‘Oh. Do you need to go?’
‘No, they’re fine. They’re in the other room watching a movie. I’m in the kitchen, but I can see them from here, so we’re good. So how are you?’
‘Busy. Work’s been crazy.’
‘Sounds like it’s always that way.’
‘Yeah. Unfortunately.’
‘You sound tired.’
‘I am. I haven’t slept much this week.’
‘Because of work?’
‘Yeah,’ I lie, not wanting to tell her my lack of sleep is because I can’t stop thinking about her. ‘I’ve been staying late at the office.’
We’re both silent a moment.
‘So I have some news,’ I say, trying to sound excited.
Seriously, why am I not more excited about this? Am I in shock? Do I just need some time to let it sink in?
‘What is it?’ she asks.
‘I made partner. I just found out.’
‘Nick, that’s great! Congratulations!’
‘Thanks. It’s sooner than I thought. I was thinking it wouldn’t happen for a few months or maybe not until next year.’
‘Your parents must be thrilled! They’re so proud of you.’
‘My parents don’t know yet. You’re the first person I told.’
‘Really?’
‘Yeah. So anyway, I just wanted you to know.’
‘It’s really great, Nick. I’m proud of you.’
Just hearing her voice again makes my heart ache to be with her, to hold her in my arms, kiss her. God, I miss her. I miss her so fucking bad.
‘I should probably let you go,’ I say.
‘Oh. Yeah, okay. It was nice talking to you, Nick.’
‘You too.’ I pause. ‘Lyndsay, wait. Before you go .?.?.’
‘Yeah?’
‘Are you still planning on going to the reunion?’
‘I am. How’d you know I was going?’
‘Matt mentioned it. He said Diane told him when he ran into her at the store.’
