Page 113 of Small Town Swoo
Then I flopped back, frustrated and scowling. How long was this going to go on?
I lasted a few more minutes and gave in. If she wanted to ignore me, she could, but on the off chance she was willing to talk, I needed to check in with her.
Hey. Has it been long enough?
Long enough?
For me to reach out. I know I’m supposed to give you time. It’s harder than I thought. You’re on my mind constantly.
You’re on mine too.
How is your dad?
He’s improving. I’m at the hospital right now. He says hello.
Say hi for me.
Did you make it back home?
Yes. I’m sitting here eating dinner (not as good as your cooking) and watching a romantic movie. What have you done to me?
Haha. What’s the movie?
I don’t know the name but it reminds me of something you’d like.
Who’s in it? What are they doing?
Sandra Bullock is pretending to be the fiancée of someone in a coma but she’s spending a suspicious amount of time with his brother.
OMG I LOVE THAT MOVIE SO MUCH
I smiled, because I could hear her saying that and I knew just what expression was on her face as she’d typed. I wished she was on the couch next to me so badly.
My thumbs hovered over the screen, wondering what to do with the things I was feeling. I had no experience with this. I missed my walls.
Guess what?
What?
My agency says my meeting tomorrow isn’t an audition. Apparently I already have the role.
WHAT?!
Gray dots faded in and out, then disappeared. Five seconds later, she was calling me.
“Hello?”
“Dash! Hang on, I’m going in the hall. Be right back, Dad!” A couple seconds later, she was back. “What the heck? You’ve got the role inAll We’ve Lost? The one you wanted?”
God, I loved the sound of her voice. “That’s what the message said. I’ll know more tomorrow.”
“I can’t believe it!”
“Me neither.”
“But also, Icanbelieve it. You’re that good, Dash. Never doubt yourself.”
“Thanks. Tell me what’s new with your dad.” As she filled me in, I wandered aimlessly around my house. I’d bought the one-story Spanish style home with white stucco walls and terra-cotta roof last year. It had two bedrooms and baths, plus a beautiful kitchen I couldn’t help picturing Ari in as I crossed through it. I’d have given anything to have her there right now and not on the phone.
