Happy Together

The wind is strong today, my skin prickles in response. I stand on the porch after helping George’s parents bring their bags out. They’re dressed in comfortable clothes for the long drive, but they’re still dressed formally. Mary taps my shoulder before getting in the front seat. Ethan steps forward as if he’s going to hug me but stops. He looks awkward than just tells me to have a good holiday. Then they’re gone and I’m alone. I go back inside and feel slightly warmer. I sneak over to the thermostat and turn it up a few degrees. I’m all alone, but I still feel like there’s other people in the house.