Chapter 16

“Did you mean it? When you said you care about me?”

“Yes. Yes, my Angel, I do.”

“I’m not just a—”

“No. Don’t say that. Not ever.”

Did you even know what I was going to say? Probably. That I’m just a plaything? A quickie? A whore? That’s what she was saying no to. “Are we okay?” I ask.

“I think so.”

“Good.” I am pained by what I have to say next. “I have to go. My mom will be worried.”

“I know.”

We spend at least thirty minutes standing at the front door, saying our goodbyes. There’s a lot of hugging, a few tears, and plenty of reassurances. When I finally leave, I am exhausted, but optimistic.

A Special Night

We spend the rest of the week in a fog of lust, sneaking kisses while we can, and waiting for the weekend when I can claim to be staying with a friend again. I’ve chosen Friday night this time so I won’t lose Gabriela to early mass again.