Page 21 of Thanks for the Friendship
I must say that louder than I intended because Diane hears me from their table. My parents explain that they’re ready to sell the house, while I remain silent.
My gaze moves over to Cal, who gives me a comforting smile. We just had this conversation when we saw each other at the market, so I know he understands.
“Oh, Lila, just think about the fabulous home you could find yourself,” Sara suggests. “That’s probably a nice perk of your job.”
I tighten my jaw. “Yes, you’re right about that.”
The subject switches back to my parents’ upcoming trip, and I force myself not to think about what’s to come.It’s just a house, Lila.
After we finish dinner, we say good-bye to the Hillards, Sara, and Cal. Once we’re safely outside, my mother revisits the subject of Cal.
“I haven’t thought about Cal Sims in years. Didn’t you two have a messy teenage breakup?”
I bite my lower lip. “Yes, that’s exactly what it was.”
I hold my arms out to give her a hug and then hug my father.
My mom says she will be in touch to make plans for me to join them in New York. Who knows when that will actually happen, especially now because I need to start looking for a place to live.
Ugh. The thought of it makes me nauseated.
I just have to pull myself together, because I can do this. I sell people’s homes every day, so why is it bothering me so much? Now I just have to figure out the best way to break the news to my roommates that change is coming.
Chapter Seven
The big day has arrived. It’s party time.
Never in all my wildest dreams did I ever think Theo’s birthday would turn into such a big production and I’d be a part of it. Our house is decorated with all the party trimmings—streamers, balloons, and confetti. I actually despise confetti, but I didn’t tell Gabby that. There’s a DJ on the back patio, as well as loads of delicious catered food. Guests have begun to arrive, and so far I don’t know a single person other than my roommates and the birthday boy. I greet a few guests and then escape out to one of the hammocks in the corner of the backyard. I can’t remember the last time I sat in one, so I stretch out and stare up at the night sky. I remember when my parents had these installed. My mother was on a home renovation kick and one of her projects was the backyard. She thought of everything to enhance the area around the pool, from the outdoor kitchen to artificial turf. Her backyard design drew quite a bit of attention and was even featured in lifestyle and home decor magazines. She was over the moon, and the Barlow backyard became famous.
It’s the perfect time to relax for a few minutes while the party is gearing up. My plan is go out of my way and be present for Gabby throughout the night. I haven’t told my roommates about the dinner with my parents yet. I figured I’d at least get through this party before delivering the bad news.
“Lila?” Reagan calls.
“Out here,” I say, holding up my hand but not moving from the hammock.
“Hey, girl,” a voice says. I lift my head up to see Sara sauntering over to me. She’s wearing a short, pink baby doll dress. Her blonde waves brush the tops of her shoulders.
“I was about to ask what you’re doing out here, but I totally get it. This is absolutely magical.”
I smile. “Thanks. I figured I’d use this time to relax for a few minutes before the rager starts.”
I motion to the other hammock, inviting her to sit down.
“I was about to ask, but I didn’t want to interrupt your relaxation,” she says, carefully sitting down in it. Her dress is a bit short, but she carefully lies down, keeping all areas covered. “Cal is already busy with Theo and all his friends.”
I tighten my jaw. I don’t know if Theo keeps in touch with a lot of people from high school other than Cal, but there’s a good chance I might know a few of them.
“Your house is stunning by the way,” she says. “I’m sure you won’t have any issues selling it.”
Crap. I almost forgot that she knows about it. I hope neither she nor Cal say anything to Theo or Gabby about the impending sale.
“Probably not.” I pause. “Anyway, how’s good ol’ Diane? I haven’t heard from her lately.”
She laughs. “She’s fine. Definitely making herself right at home in Miami.”
“I don’t doubt it.”
The music starts to get louder, and I hear a few cheers.
