Forever Mine

“No shit.” I mop it up with a napkin, but the red has splattered everywhere.

“Let me get you a t-shirt.” She sits up and smiles at Steve, who looks rather smug.

Priya comes down with an old faded ‘I love Hanson’ t-shirt.

I take one look at it. “Really?”

She smirks. “It’s all I could find.”

“Don’t you have another period shirt for me?”

“Just put it on and stop being a baby.”

Liv giggles as I reluctantly pull it over my head, and Priya smiles. “Suits you.”

I glance at Steve, still wearing his smug grin, then carry on eating my dinner.

Priya sways to her own hums and clicks her fingers, singing the words, “MMMBop.”

Livvie rolls her eyes. “Mum, that’s so cringe.” But Priya giggles and knocks my arm with her shoulder, making me chuckle along with her until Steve joins in.

After filling up on her delicious food, I stand and carry my plate to the sink. “Thanks for dinner.”

“Do you want to stay for dessert?”

“Nah, I think I've tormented you enough for one night. Come on, girls. I’ll call and get us an ice cream on the way home.”

“Yay.” Beth runs to grab her bag and shoes.

“Good to meet you, mate.” I hold out my hand to Steve and stifle the laugh as he stands in his tampon t-shirt.

“And you, Cal. I hope to see you in Australia.”

Priya walks out to the car with us and kisses the girls as she buckles Beth’s seatbelt. “What do you think of him?”

“He seems decent enough. Look, I’m happy if he makes you happy and treats the girls with respect.”

“Thank you.” She throws her arms around me and kisses my cheek. I haven't hugged her in a long time. It feels strange hugging her after all this time, and I feel nothing but love for her. Not the same love as I have for Steph, but more of the love you have for a sister or friend. I'd do anything for Priya, but I couldn't stay with her. We’re better apart than we ever were together.