Page 45 of Butter My Biscuit

“Julia moved out while I was gone. What am I going to do? I just renewed for another six months.”

Her emotions bubble, and I open my arms.

“I can’t afford to live here without a roommate.”

“I’ll do whatever I can to help. Got it?”

“I feel so stupid for signing that lease. I should’ve just moved back in with my mom and stepdad. And if not, I guess I’ll have to move in with you. Sleep on your couch or something.”

It honestly wouldn’t be the worst suggestion she’s had.

“If it comes to that, deal. Colt won’t mind.”

We’ve lived together for five years and he’s used to my shenanigans. Plus, he likes Grace’s company. Everyone in my family does.

She sniffles. “You mean it?”

I draw an X over my heart. It’s how we’ve made unbreakable promises to each other since we were kids, and we only pull them out in serious situations.

9

GRACE

Harrison gives me a hug. “Do you need me to stay with you?”

“No.” I shake my head. “I know you gotta get home. I’ll be fine. I promise.”

“If you need me, call me, okay? You can fall asleep with me on the phone, like old times.”

“I will.” I walk him to the door and watch him climb into his truck. He gives me a wave before backing out and leaving.

Once I’m inside, I lock the dead bolt, then lean against the hardwood as I look around. The artwork that Julia had on the wall, two of the chairs from our unmatching dining room table, and the recliner are gone.

I make my way toward my room and notice her door is cracked. All that’s left are the indents of where her bed and dresser once were, along with thumbtack holes of different photos she had hung. We weren’t super close, but I at least considered her a friend. Probably didn’t see the red flags in her either. Maybe I’ll learn that some people just suck.

As I stand in the space, tears fall in drops on the floor. It feels like everything in my life is falling apart.

I walk to my room, flick off the light, and crawl into bed. I think about Joey. I think about Harrison and Stephanie. That stupid kiss. And Landon.

Just as he comes to mind, my phone buzzes.

Landon

Did you make it home okay?

Grace

Yeah, about an hour ago. Thanks for asking. Did you?

He told me he was flying back to Fort Worth today.

Landon

I did. Thought about you.

Grace

Aww. That’s sweet.

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