Page 35 of The Heart You've Borrowed

“Really?” I ask, shocked.

“Yeah I mean I don’t have to go back right away and who knows, maybe something will be worth staying for. Other than you of course.” She nudges me with her shoulder.

“If you stay, I doubt it will be because of me.” I roll my eyes.

“I wouldn’t mind staying for you, making sure you’re okay.” She sighs.

“And I love you for that, but I’ll be okay, no matter what happens. I have Lio, Jackson and Brad. I’ll be okay.” I squeeze her leg.

“I know but just in case you’re not, I’d be here to help.” She leans her head on my shoulder.

“I appreciate that.” I rest my head on top of hers.

“Who would have thought we’d be sitting here together.” She laughs.

“Not me, when I first saw you I wasn’t your biggest fan.” I shake my head.

“I’m sure you weren’t.” She lets out a loud laugh.

“But thank you, for everything. I don’t think I would have gotten out without you.” I feel the tears stinging my eyes.

“It was all you, I just helped push you. You did this Charlie, you got out. You started over.”

“Thanks.” I whisper, trying to swallow the lump in my throat.

***

Lio starts the baked potatoes and corn while Kelly and I enjoy a glass of wine. Brad texted Lio that he was on his way and should be here in ten minutes. I can tell Kelly is nervous, which I didn’t expect.

“You good?” I eye her over my wine glass.

“Yeah, why?” She turns to face me.

“You’re pacing.”

“Oh yeah, no I’m good.” She nods.

“Don’t be nervous, this isn’t even a real date.” Lio adds.

“Yeah, but it could lead to a real one. What if he doesn’t like me?” She runs a hand down her face.

“Who wouldn’t like you?” I roll my eyes.

“I’m not good with dates.” She shrugs.

“What do you mean?” Lio laughs.

“I, I don’t do well with small talk. It makes me nervous and then I say stupid shit and I just like it better if we skip the date.” She blushes.

“Don’t be nervous, we're here and we will do most of the talking if you want.” Lio smiles at her.

“Thanks.” She mumbles.

“Kelly, just breathe. We can act as a buffer for you. You are smart, and kind, and funny and so fun to be around. You are more than a body. You have a heart of gold and Brad will see that. It will all be okay, and if it doesn’t then so be it. You got this.” I squeeze her shoulders.

“Yeah, you’re right. Okay, I’m back to being the bad bitch I am. Thanks for the pep talk guys.” She laughs, and Lio and I shake our heads holding back our laughs.

There’s a knock at the door and Kelly jumps up and down like a little kid on Christmas. Lio walks over and answers the door. Kelly and I are laughing together in the living room when we hear a thud.

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