Page 51 of Versions Of Us

“To get you a phone.”

Normally there’s nothing I loathe more than visiting the mall, but I welcome the distraction. Getting out might help clear my head.

“You’re infuriating.” She groans and her eyes roll so far back in her head I can only see the whites for a split second.

“Maybe I am. But it’s only because I care,” I say sincerely.

She looks up at me, her glare softening. “Yeah, I know,” she resigns.

“You want to come with me?”

“No, thanks,” she replies. “I’m beat. Going to see what’s new on Netflix.”

“Suit yourself,” I say.

I’m inwardly relieved that Mackenzie has chosen not to take me up on my offer. The town is surely swirling with rumours of my return by now and the last thing I need is to be seen in public with the new girl.

Mackenzie flicks the remote and the television screen comes to life. I shake my head, a slight grin forming on my lips when I notice she’s created her own profile on my Netflix account.

“Be careful,” she calls over her shoulder. “Looks like a storm’s about to roll in.”

Chapter 22

KRISTEN

“Hello. Earth to Kristen.” Chase’s voice permeates my thoughts and I look up at him, aware now that he’s been trying to get my attention. “What’s going on?”

“Huh?” I mumble. “Sorry. What were you saying?”

“I said that what Mr. Abbott said was really interesting in that last seminar. It kind of makes you think about the relationship between dissociative identity disorder and people with borderline personality…” I look up again when I hear him trail off. “Seriously. What is going on with you?”

“Nothing. I’m fine.”

“Really?” Chase arches an eyebrow. There’s no use in trying to disguise my mood from Chase. He’s always been able to read me. “Well, you’ve been pushing those salad leaves around with your fork for the last ten minutes without taking a bite. To be honest, I’m kind of offended that you find your leafy greens more exciting than the conversation I’m trying to have with you, but you know, whatever. I’ll save my tears for my pillow tonight.”

I manage a laugh at his witty attempt to humour me.

In all honesty, I hadn’t heard much of Mr. Abbott’s lecture. Mentally, I was still stuck on that rock by the river with Henley. Since then, I’ve been navigating my life on autopilot, unable to get him out of my head.

“I’m sorry,” I say apologetically. “I’ve got a lot on my mind, I guess.”

“Like…” Chase prompts me.

I sigh, combing a tendril of hair behind my ear. “I saw Henley.”

“Where?” he asks, confusion passing over his face.

“At the river. Well, I saw him at the tavern first. He’s living there.” I continue to absentmindedly stir my salad around in the plastic takeout container.

“He’s living in a bar?” Chase has lowered his burger to the table now, completely intrigued by what I’m telling him.

“No,” I say. “Well, yeah. I mean, there’s an apartment above the bar and he’s living there.”

“Wow.” He pauses, allowing what I’m telling him to sink in. “So, he’s back, huh?”

I nod, letting out a breath. “Looks like it.”

“How do you feel about it?” he asks.

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