Page 17 of Where We Belong

Ben: Understandable. Heath’s my best friend and knowing that she manipulated him since he was a child upsets me. Though, he’s working on that, and maybe you should too.

Cory: How did we go from your sleepless nights to our criminal mother?

Ben: You asked me why I didn’t reach out for help.

Cory: Right. Well, now you know what to do the next time you knock up one of your one-night stands.

Ben: It wasn’t intentional.

Cory: Accidents happen, obviously. I remember Dad used to say that actions always had consequences. Or was it, there’s always a price to pay for your mistakes?

Cory: :thinking-face: emoji

Cory: The point is that when you have sex, there’s always the possibility of… babies, STIs, and more.

Ben: So, you don’t mind if you and Mr. Perfect end up having children?

Cory: We’re being cautious.

Ben: I was cautious.

Cory: Well, I don’t think it’ll happen.

Ben: But what if it does?

Cory: I’m sure he’ll be happy. The guy adores his children.

Ben: How many does he have?

Cory: Three. The youngest is five or six.

Ben: Do you get along with them?

Cory: I haven’t met them yet. I’m pretty sure we already went through this.

Ben: :shrug: emoji

Ben: It’s possible, I do recall discussing his bratty daughter. I just don’t understand why he’ll take you to Paris, but won’t introduce you to his children. It’s weird.

Cory: There’s nothing wrong with that.

Ben: Unless he’s married and pretending he’s divorced.

Cory: He’s divorced. What is your problem with him?

Ben: I just want to make sure you don’t end up with a douche that’s living a double life.

Cory: :raised-eyebrow: emoji

Cory: Have I mentioned that you have to stay in your lane?

Ben: What does that mean?

Cory: As I keep reminding you, we’re not friends. You have to stay out of my life. If you’re bored and need someone to text, try Heath.

Ben: He just left for Mexico and won’t return until next month. Something about Atzi’s family and several celebrations. He invited me to join him in a few weeks. You should join me.

Cory: So, you’re bored, and I’m your Heath replacement?

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