Page 34 of Pretty Please Me
Trent
Hey Maggie. How’s it going? I haven’t heard from you, and I was just wondering if you’re still planning on coming to the reunion?
Hey Trent! It’s so good to hear from you! Sorry I haven’t texted. I kind of had a lot going on. Yes, I’m still planning to attend.
Trent
Great! I’m happy to hear it. Listen, I was wondering if you’d like to go with me? Like as my date? I know these things can be daunting if you’re alone, and I want to hang out with you while I’ve got the chance…
Of course, I’ll be your date. It would be nice to catch up with you
Trent
It’s settled, then. I can’t wait to see you. I’m actually counting down the days…
I’m excited, too. If you need any help with anything, I’m happy to pitch in however I can.
Trent
Seriously? That would be incredible
You have no idea how much I needed help! I’ll send you a list of caterers and the budget. Seriously, just pick what you think is best. I’m up to my eyeballs in decisions, and I trust your judgment.
P.S. You’re the best!
With a bubbling sense of excitement, I lace up my sneakers and pull my hair into a ponytail. It’s a beautiful day, and I want to spend it outside
* * *
Time seems to disappear as I take in the beautiful park surrounding me. There’s a slight chill in the air, enough to warrant pants and a long sleeve workout shirt, and the bright afternoon sun warms my skin. I love the changing of seasons. It’s like mother nature doesn’t know which way to lean, and you get a perfect mix, the best of each.
A light sheen of sweat coats the back of my neck as I do my final lap around the park. It’s busier than usual today. A group of bikers passes me on my left, and I laugh as I watch a man chasing a rogue dog who must’ve gotten off his leash. The frustrated man’s wearing a nice suit and shoes that can’t be comfortable to run in as he faces the dog in a standoff, both lunging to the opposite sides before the dog takes off again.
I shouldn’t be laughing, but the park is set far enough from the roads, and I’m sure the dog will eventually tire of the game. He looks like he’s having the time of his life and probably thinks his owner is playing along. It’s funny how moments can be frustrating or fun; the only difference is our perspective. The dog is clearly having a great time, while the man is annoyed for an endless list of human reasons the dog will never understand.
The thought surprises me, and I pull out my phone to write it down in my notes. Once I’m back in the studio and teaching, that could be a fun story to tell in class. I type out the thought and give a little backstory, so I don’t forget, then slide my phone back into my pocket.
I can’t wait for life to return to normal, to have my studio back in working order—and my apartment—but I must admit staying with Sam hasn’t been the worst. Other than my short time in college, I’ve never had a roommate, and I like not being alone in the evenings. Having someone to share a meal with and talk about our days is nice and just another reminder that I’m doing the right thing pursuing Trent.
He actually seems to like me, which is crazy.
Things with Sam may be unconventional, but I can already see my confidence starting to grow, and all we’ve done is kiss. The compliments help, too, of course, but I really think this will work out.
I make my way over to a large oak tree set off from the walking trail and curl up against the thick trunk. I pull my phone out of my pocket and set it beside me and grab my new book out of my bag.
After leaving Sam’s apartment, I walked around the city, did a little window shopping, and then stumbled across the cutest little bookstore. I had every intention of stopping by the studio today and probing the crew on their timeline but opted to take a day to relax instead. I feel like it’s what Sam would want me to do, and a part of me really wants to please him. I want to show him that I’m listening, so I think I’ll save the worrying for tomorrow and enjoy my little slice of peace today.
I open my book and let all my thoughts melt away as I disappear into the story…
“Hey, lady! Are you okay!?” A bright light shines brightly on my face, and I blink several times, shielding my eyes with my hands.
It’s pitch-black outside except for the blinding light that is currently burning a hole in my retinas.
I sit up slowly, my aching back sore from the knobby tree roots, as I try to see who’s talking to me.
“Yeah, I’m fine. I guess I just fell asleep.” I pat around the grass in search of my phone, but all I find is my book.
“Oh, good. Sawyer thought you were dead, and Devon thought you passed out because you were drunk… I thought maybe you were homeless. Are you homeless?” the kid asks, and I hold up my hand to block the light.
