The Darkness that Follows Us by Lana Vargas

Author:Lana Vargas [Vargas, Lana]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Lana Vargas
Published: 2024-04-13T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 17

Kat

Landslide - Fleetwood Mac

Monday is usually the toughest day to get through. The kids are still tired and grumpy from the weekend, but I feel the same way today. I’m supposed to be grading the spelling test I gave last week, but instead, I’m using some time to call someone I’ve been meaning to for weeks.

“Look who finally remembered I exist.” She was never one to hide her sarcasm. Emory can be a hard pill to swallow at first, but she means well. Once you get to know her, she’ll do anything for you. She used to be a lot grouchier before she softened up with Elliot.

They were the epitome of love, the classic love story, except Emory didn’t get the happily ever after with Elliot, at least not in a literal sense. Witnessing their love story unfold made me believe that love still exists. She was beside him every waking minute until he died. She’s only twenty, but she’s stronger than most.

“Sorry I’ve been so busy with the two jobs. Then my car had some problems, so Andrew’s been helping out and⁠—”

“Pause. You’ve been hanging out with Andrew?” Her shock makes me regret opening my mouth.

“He’s helping fix my car.” I can’t give her the whole truth—she’d tell me I’m crazy for being his fake girlfriend. A month ago, I’d say she was right, but it works for us.

“And that’s it?” I can smell her insinuation even from three hundred miles away.

“Yes, nosey. It’s been nice hanging out with someone since you’re off at your fancy school, and besides, he likes the company now that…” I bite my lip to stop myself from speaking Elliot’s name. Last time I let it slip, I could hear her silent sobs on the other end.

“I’m glad he has you around. Elliot was really important to him. I imagine he needs someone to get him through this.” She speaks softly and shakily. While I’m glad I’m here for Andrew, I can’t help but wonder who’s there for her while she grieves. I can only do so much living in another state.

“How’s school?” I ask, attempting to change the subject.

“Hell. I underestimated how hard these classes were gonna be, but thankfully, I’ve met some smart people to copy notes from.” I want to believe she’s joking, but I know she isn’t.

“Good thing you only have four years to go.” I just know she’s flipping me off right now.

“I hate you,” she bites out in between lighthearted laughter.

“Are you coming back for winter break?” I know it’s a stupid thing to ask when her laughter dies off and I hear her breath hitch.

“I think I’m gonna stay here. I can’t be there—not yet.” It shatters my heart to hear her stumble for the words. Of course she wouldn’t want to come here. It’s only been two months since the love of her life died; why would she want to return to the place where he’s everywhere? Nice going, Kat.

“I get it. I’m sorry I….asked”

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