Page 97 of Still Here Without You

“That’s…thank you, but I should go.” How do I explain that just seeing him is enough to hurt me? That it’s not really about him talking to me or leaving me be. It’s just being in his presence.

“I’m sorry, Delilah.”

“It’s okay; I promise. I don’t blame you.”

Summer’s shoulders lift, and she clenches her teeth, her nose wrinkling like she wants to say more, but she doesn’t. I’m about to walk away when a commotion draws my attention as everyone flocks to the yard.

“What’s that about?”

“The talent show is starting.”

“Talent show?” Okay, so maybe that has me curious. “Is Dylan performing?”

“Unfortunately, no. But he’s helping out. And trust me when I say it’s something you need to see.”

I huff out a breath with a small smile but then freeze when I see Joel among the competition. Now I’m torn. I hate the feelings I get when I see Joel, but at the same time,why is he up there?I need to know. Plus, I can’t let this thing with Joel affect me for the rest of my life.

“Okay, maybe I’ll stay for the talent show.”

The show is not at all what I expected. I’d assumed there’d be a stage and judges, but no, it’s some kind oftalent off.Meaning everyone stands in a circle and those with similar talents compete in the middle. It’s actually hilarious to watch. We’ve seen a dance off, a juggle off, a yo-yo off, and even two guys who could tie a knot in a candy snake using only their tongues. Gotta say, that was kind of hot. When the sing off is announced, Joel stands, and a thrill of excitement runs through me. After all the times he’s talked up his impressive singing skills, it must be his talent. I never thought I’d see this day…that I’d ever discover whether or not he could actually sing.

My heart thumps in my chest, and my pulse races as I rise up on my toes in anticipation, needing to see over the crowd. Joel cracks his neck, stretches his arms out in front of him, and bounces on the spot, like he’s preparing for a fight. His eyes flash my way and light up when he sees me staring.Shit.My traitorous heart flutters as I fight to keep a straight face.

Reaching into his pocket, Joel pulls out his phone and flicks through the screen. A few people laugh at his antics until Dylan elbows him in the ribs. “Okay, okay,” he yells. “Everyone ready? Let’s go.”

He presses a button, and the music changes over the speaker to some nineties hits. Luke and two other guys sing “Ice, Ice, Baby” by Vanilla Ice, and while it’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen, Joel never utters a word. He’s in control of the music, nothing more. My shoulders fall as my lips pull into a frown. I quickly school my features before anyone can see, then duck my head, shaking off my thoughts.Why does everything about Joel still hook me in?

When the song finishes, I look up to find Joel’s stare in my direction with a questioning look in his eyes. His lips curl up in the smallest of smiles, and he holds up his phone with a shrug. I can’t help the small laugh that breaks free at the fact he was the DJ instead of a singer, and I watch as his smile widens at my reaction.

“Told you it was really something,” Summer says from beside me.

“It really was. How did Dylan get out of participating?”

Summer laughs. “He donates extra cash so he doesn’t have to.”

“Smart. I’d do the same.”

My gaze travels toward where Joel was previously standing to find that he’s no longer there, and the fact that I’m disappointed proves that I need to leave.

“Thank you for convincing me to come. It was definitely worth it just for that. But now—”

“Now, you need to go. I get it. I do. I wish things were different, but I get it.”

“Thanks, Summer. Can we maybe have a coffee this week?” I don’t know why I’m nervous to ask. She’s repeatedly told me she’d love to meet up.

“Definitely. Let’s talk tomorrow and lock in the time. Do you want me to walk you out?”

Out of the corner of my eye, I see Dylan walking our way. “That’s okay. I think someone’s here for you.”

She looks over her shoulder and smiles softly. “As long as you’re sure? Dylan can wait.”

“I’m sure. Talk tomorrow?”

She nods, and with a quick wave and a smile, I walk away.

I say goodbye to Dylan on my way past, along with a few of the cheer girls, and am almost to the door when Joel steps in front of me.So close. I was so close.

“We need to talk.”

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