Found in Us (Lost 2)

“Why didn’t he tell Dani any of this?” I ask.

“I believe she’s been ignoring his calls. Girl solidarity and all that.”

I love this girl.

“So...can you postpone the girl’s night? Parker will get in touch with you as soon as possible, and I think he wants to talk to you.”

I stiffen. “I can’t bail on Dani.”

“I’ll go out with her. Haven’t had a wild night myself in a while.”

“But...” I’m at a loss as to what to say. I am...terrified. Okay, so maybe Parker hadn’t wanted to break up silently, but what if he wants to meet to break up? I really don’t want to face that.

I bite my lip then make my decision. I’m going to be brave. Whatever happens tonight, I’m going to face it head-on, like an adult. Even if it hurts. Especially if it hurts.

“Okay. I’ll tell Dani that you’re going out with her.”

“Perfect.”

Dani crosses her arms over her chest when I tell her, tapping her foot. “Are you sure this is a good idea? I can stick around and kick Parker’s ass.”

“He’s your cousin,” I remind her.

“So? Girls have to stick together.”

“Go have fun, Dani. I promise I’ll be okay on my own.”

“Fine. But call me if you change your mind.”

Fifteen minutes after she leaves, as I’m pacing through the apartment, I feel a little foolish, and I’m still terrified. When the phone rings, my heart leaps in my throat. Parker is calling.

I ignore the light tremor in my fingers and take the call.

“Jessica, hi! Helen said she spoke with you—“

“She did.”

“Where are you?”

“At my apartment.”

“I’ll be there in twenty minutes.”

“Okay.” I want to ask why exactly he wants to meet... to make up or to break up? But I don’t have the courage, so I just disconnect the call, and pace some more. Cooking. That would help pass the time. I have twenty minutes. Pasta needs less time.

I force myself to focus on the process and not think about Parker, but pasta with tomato sauce is an easy dish. It doesn’t require concentration.

By the time I’m putting the finishing touches, rubbing parmigiana over the plated dish, the doorbell rings.

Here goes nothing.

I hurry to the door, feeling a little nauseous. Be brave, Jess.

When I open the door, I bite the inside of my cheek. Parker looks tired, but just as handsome as ever, wearing a tweed jacket over his suit. He steps inside, sniffing the air as we move from the foyer to the living room.

“You cooked?”

“Yes... I... it relaxes me.”