So I wait, and plan to very gently and unobtrusively comfort her when I see her. She must be around here somewhere.

But she never comes. I get angrier and angrier. She didnt bring a purse, so theres no indication if shes left altogether. I call her cell phone, but theres no answer.

Finally, I leave.

On the way home, tears run down my face, and I cant articulate why. I keep seeing her that way, hurt and angry, and her pain is mine. I love her dearly and loathe that Jaffee ***** for breaking her heart. I mean, ***** hate her.

But at the same time Shane just ditched me without a word, and Im pissed at her. Very pissed. Like, I want to take that dumb crystal award and hurl it through the Jaffees’ windshield kind of pissed.

Its early yet. Only about eight. I am pulling into my driveway when my cell rings. Its Shane.

What the *****? I snap.

Im sorry, D. I freaked. I had to bail.

Why didnt you just tell me, you *****, I woulda driven you home. I was ready to go myself.

I just…I had to leave there. Immediately.

Shane, I waited for like a ***** hour for you!

Im sorry, Dar. Really. I am.

Are you okay?

Im fine. God, after I saw her like that, she’s going to lie to me?

Bullshit!

I am.

Okay, whatever, youre fine.

I am. Jen and I are making margaritas. Come over. Please.

I dunno-

Ill make it up to you.

Oh, will you?

Yeah.

Fine. Be there in a few.

I hit “end” on my phone and throw it, suddenly furious. I bite my lip and then jerk the rearview mirror down so I can see my reflection. My face is red from crying, but only a little. I wipe my smeared makeup with my fingertips.

My phone is laying on the passenger’s seat floor. I think I killed it. I lean down to pick it up. Still alive. Tough little *****.

I sniffle, check my hair in the mirror and sigh. I don’t know why I’m going over there.

Yes I do.

It feels later than it is when I park on Shane and Jennys block. I pull the clips from my hair and turn up the walk, seeing Jen and Shane lit by the porch light.