Page 45 of All Your Firsts Without Me

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

Westin ~ Present

I’ve been playing that day in the bar over and over again. Why does it feel so important? I mean, yeah, she’s opening up to me, letting me in and I felt honored that she shared one of her few good childhood memories with me. That in itself is huge, but something about that toast to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich feels bigger, monumental even.

I stare at her photo, trying to make sense of it all.

My phone pings. When I pull it out, I see it’s from an unknown number.

Someone sent me a photo.

I sit up straight on my bed, dropping the polaroid in my hand because I have something much better. It’s not a stolen picture but a freely given one. And holy hell, it’s beautiful. It’s a selfie of her and Lucky, the sun setting behind them. The caption reads,I’m tossing you a pebble… I love sunsets.

Me: Do you and David always speak in cryptic messages.

Her: Lol. Yes. And I love that you referred to him in present tense.

Me: Because I know he will always be present in your life.

Her: ….

Her: ….

Her: I think I kinda like you.

Me: Well, that’s good because I kinda like you too.

Her: We’re getting a little cheesy now.

Me: I like cheese.

Her: Would you like to go on a double date with me next Friday night?

Me: Yes.

Her: No hesitation?

Me: No hesitation.

Her: Thank you for today.

Me: Thank you for the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Her: You’re welcome. Good night, Westin.

Me: Sweet dreams, April.

Tonight, I don’t feel as lonely, knowing her number is now stored safely in my phone, along with her sweet, smiling face.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

April

So, this is already a disaster. Tears are streaming down my face as I stare at the grill. I don’t even know how to turn the damn thing on. Why did I think I could entertain guests without David?

They’re going to be here soon, and I haven’t even gotten the grill started. A few car doors slam, but it doesn’t deter my stare off with my glaring failure... stupid thing.

“April, what’s wrong?” Giles and his wife, Bev, rush towards me.