They The Pretty Stars (Court High 1)

“Of course, Mr. Lindquist.” Royal’s nod was firm. “Definitely won’t.”

Dad bobbed his head twice in acknowledgment again before closing his robe tight and retreating up the stairs. He went about his business, leaving the pair of us.

“Do you need a ride to school?” Royal asked simply like he didn’t just shrink my father down to size. He gave me the keys to the guesthouse. “Hershey’s all settled and has breakfast.”

My lips parting, I shook my head. “I need to shower and eat.”

“Right. Well, I’ll see you at school, then.” He started to walk off, the front door this time like none of what just happened was a thing at all.

“What was all that about?” I touched his arm, making him turn. “Do you have the magic touch or something when it comes to my dad?” Yeah, he had a history with my dad and Paige being her friend, but that was too weird.

He shrugged. “He?

??s never had a problem with me.” I guess not and I released him, but not before he took hold of me. He brought me under one arm, pinching my chin. “I’ll see you at school, princess.”

He let me go with that, heading to the front door, and all I had left to do then, I guess, was shower.

To: [email protected]

From: [email protected]

Subject: Complications

So something happened with Royal, and I wouldn’t be a very good person unless I said something. Actually, I feel like a horrible person and terrible sister. I came down here for you and that’s still true, but like I said, something happened, so brace yourself…

I kissed him, okay? All right, I more than kissed him. We hooked up, and before you say what I think you’re going to say, this isn’t like it was before. Royal isn’t Dean, and I don’t think he’s using me. In fact, he didn’t want to do it at all. Neither of us did, and really, because of you. We care about you, but he did this thing at his cousin’s pumpkin patch. It was a really sweet thing with some dogs and dog toys, and it made me feel like he wasn’t so bad. Of course, that’s not the only reason I slept with him. I think he might secretly be a great person, which would explain a lot. It’d explain him and you. He told me about some of the things you used to do and the trouble you got into, and I think I’m starting to understand now. He was your person like you were mine, and I think you might have been his too for him. He said you were there for him, and why am I not surprised? He also told me the reason you left. That girl you mentioned the summer before last? P, why didn’t you tell me what was going on? Don’t worry. Royal didn’t go into details, but I wished you would have. We’re here for you, both Royal and I, and if you come back, just know you’re needed and you’re loved. I need you, P, and it’s okay to need others and not just be the backbone for me and your friends. It’s okay to be weak, and it’s okay to be vulnerable as long as you don’t let it get you down. You taught me that.

I’m going to do something you asked me to do when you stopped texting and returning my calls over the summer. I’ve learned a lot since coming here, and the one thing I haven’t done for you was the only thing you asked me. You said you needed space, and I never gave that to you. I came here, immersed myself in your life, and became a placeholder for you instead of just being there for you. I’m not going to leave town, but I’m not going to push you either. I’m staying here in Maywood Heights. I’m going to build a life here for now. I don’t think it’s as bad as you may think…

Let’s figure it out together?

Your Forever Love,

Em

June 30th

8:27 p.m.

December: Any updates? You feel like talking or anything? It’s been a while…

July 1st

3:13 p.m.

December: Come on, Paige. This isn’t cool. I’ve texted you. Called you. TEXT ME. I’m starting to worry.

July 1st

5:25 p.m.

December: Hello? Hello?! Anyone there?

July 3rd

1:56 p.m.

December: Okay, this is real fucked, Paige, and beyond immature. I called Dad and he said you just took off and didn’t come back one night. What’s going on? Please TALK TO ME.