Chapter 53

Maybe I had too much coffee…it’s better if I go out before I decide to start painting my apartment again.

So I leave, walking without a precise destination in mind, until the moment I reach the windows of Sean’s tattoo parlor. I want to kick myself.

What the hell am I doing here?

Yes, let’s pretend you don’t know why, says my dear, sweet, internal voice. It’s as welcome as an attack of herpes.

When I realize I’m standing in front of the door, I quickly turn on my heel to leave, but the sound of a little bell followed by “Hey!” makes me stop in my tracks. I close my eyes and grind my teeth, damning what’s inside me that first pushes me toward Sean, then forces me away. I’m sure the accident damaged my brain. There’s no doubt about it.

I turn again towards the tattoo parlor and there, with his usual smile, is Sean, greeting me with a wave.

I pull my hand from my pocket and answer with a wave of my own. I’m a little stooped and don’t look him in the eyes.