As she considered Tanya’s words, the waiter returned with their meals. They moved to small talk as they ate. The normalcy went a long way. “What’s new with your life?”
“Nothing, that’s the problem,” Tanya replied sarcastically.
“What happened to Brian?”
“Ugh, he was boring, clingy and annoying.” Tanya rolled her eyes. “I’m thinking about just committing to being a lifelong bachelorette. If Clooney can do it, why can’t I?”
“You know I’m behind whatever decision you make.”
“I do know, that’s why you’re my favorite, Lark.” Tanya winked.
“I thought it was because I was pretty and witty.” Lark pouted.
“That too. But mainly, the support.”
They glanced at each other and burst into a fit of giggles.
“I’ve missed this,” Tanya said.
“Me too, let’s make it a weekly thing.”
“Done. I want to explain why I’ve been somewhat distant. I wanted to give you time to
figure things out on your own. I know if you need me, you’ll ask and I didn’t need to crowd you.
What happened to Robin must be beyond devastating? I won’t even pretend to understand how you feel. But I’m here anytime…night or day.”
“I love you for that, Tanya. Seriously. You’re the best friend I’ve ever had. You never told me to give up on my sister, or told me I was stupid for continuously bailing her out of trouble.
You were, no—you are the best and I don’t think I’ve told you that enough. “
“I love you too, girl. You never judge me for any of the things I try or find myself interested in. You hold my secrets, let me vent when I feel like losing it and you’re always in my corner. I can’t even imagine life without you.”
“And you’ll never have to,” Lark assured her.
They exchanged a knowing look.
“What did you tell Pan when you left?”
She shook her head and sighed. “I didn’t. He’s out of town right now.”
“Ouch, Lark.”
“I had to do it now. When he’s around, I can’t think straight. I would never be able to leave.”
“You ever stop to think that in itself is a sign?”
“Nope.” She popped her p and drained her margarita.
Tanya laughed. They spent the rest of their dinner catching up.
Filthy, tired and eager to see Lark, Pan steered his bike onto his street. The sight of an empty driveway made him frown. Where the hell would Lark be at twelve at night on a Sunday? He parked the bike and went in through the garage, hoping she’d parked inside. Worry set in. He pulled out his phone.
“Hello?” Her sleep worn voice answered.
“Lark? Where are you? Are you okay?”
“Pan? I’m so sorry. I lost track of time and passed out on my couch. Tanya and I did this whole girls’ weekend and it was phenomenal.”