Page 30 of Crash into me

“You and I aren’t so different.” She smiles; it’s small and careful. But then she looks away. “My father hurts me too.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I stutter.

She nods. “It’s okay, Skyler. Foster told me what happens to you. He opened up to me.”

And there it is. This bitch thinks I don’t remember her, so what’s the point of telling me this? Jealousy? I’m not sure.

Kate strides over. “Oh no you don’t.” She pulls me away from the little green psycho. “She doesn’t remember you, so leave her alone,” Kate warns with a short, clipped hiss.

“I didn’t mean to cause any trouble. Again, Skyler. I’m sorry.” She sounds remorseful, like she feels guilty for all she’s done.

Kate rolls her eyes, biting into a French fry. “She gets pregnant and now she’s mother fucking Theresa?”

I shrug. I want to agree, but I have to remember I don’t know Envy. And maybe she has changed, maybe the baby has made her a better version of herself.

I can only hope.

* * *

I’m alone nowand it’s dark out. I roll my windows down to let in the cool breeze on the way home, but I find myself passing my street and heading towards our spot.

So many things have changed, but the one unmoving symbol is the tree.

I get out, wanting a moment to think as I brush my palms against the rough bark.

I love the way it smells here, the salty brine of the ocean nearby. Tucked away under the hanging branches. It’s our little secret, my own little piece of paradise.

I walk into the forest, getting closer to the arch. The wildlife is going to sleep for the night, a blanket of stars comforting them. I hear the waves crashing on the shore, and the melodic strum of a guitar.

I hear his voice.

I must be going crazy.

My hands swipe the foliage, moving a banana leaf out of my way, and that’s when I feel the smooth metal of his bike that’s tucked into our walkway.

I sit down, leaning against it. I hear him better now, singing a sad tune that echoes off the water. He’s out here alone, coming to do exactly what I was.

I think I’ll just sit here for a while … listen to him.

13

Foster POV

It was the perfect night to come out here, to escape reality and go to our spot.

One thing about heartbreak is it makes for great song writing. I can barely sleep, so I’ve had plenty of time.

I wish this was my fault, that I broke her heart and she never wanted to see me again. That would be infinitely better than looking the woman I love in the eyes and her not knowing who the fuck I am.

I see her everywhere.

In my room, the bed, the fucking sky makes me think of her.

I have to block out thoughts of her playing in my mind.

I can’t quite get this song right, and I can’t keep my voice level. I stand, walking to the edge of the shoreline and tossing my guitar into the waves.

Madness will do that to you.