This time I really did smile. “It probably had to do with finally telling someone what happened and having someone there to support me and someone to trust in.”
“Devin?”
“Well, yes I guess it’s Devin, but that doesn’t mean what you’re making it out to be. Devin is my friend. That’s all.” Who just happens to be my pretend boyfriend for the time being. I didn’t tell him that, of course. “I’m also on my own this week. Emily is at cheerleading camp, and Mitch is with Megan in Las Vegas. So I am forging ahead on my own, and I guess that feels good. Not having to worry about Emily or about the family and what we are having for dinner. It’s just me,” and Devin , “and I’m relaxed, happy even.”
“Well, I’m glad to hear you have this time to think about yourself for a change and even to experience life on your own. All right, Christy, I think we’ve talked enough for today. Whatever the reason, I’m happy for this change.”
“Because I’m actually talking to you now?”
Dr. Stone laughed. “Goodbye. See you on Saturday.”
I grabbed my things then headed home. By the time I got back, it was already nearly seven. I was Dr. Stone’s last appointment, and he made an exception for me to stay later on Wednesday because of my work as well as school schedule. It was the only time I was really free during the week. Saturday was my follow-up appointment. Yes, he worked Saturday but only because he took Monday off. It was the same day his wife had off. How do I know this? Because many times I told Dr. Stone I’d only respond to a question if he answered one of mine first. So I’m pretty sure I know Dr. Stone at least as well as his secretary knows him, maybe even more.
Anyway, I got home and Devin was already in the living room watching TV. “Dinner’s on the stove!” Devin called as I shut the door.
“Thanks!” I set my stuff down and walked into the kitchen.
“How was your appointment?” Devin asked as he came into the kitchen.
“It went well. He liked my assignments,” I said as I loaded my plate with vegetables and pasta. “He told me to write about what led up to The Accident.”
“Are you ready to talk about it?”
I shook my head. “Not out loud. I want to write about it first. I seem to do better when I’m drunk or when I write things down. And I prefer not to feel horrible in the morning.” I sat down at the kitchen table.
Devin took the chair next to mine. “If you ever want to talk to someone, you know I’m here.”
I took a bite. “This is really good, Dev.”
“Thanks. It wasn’t too hard to throw together. I’m glad you like it.”
“We’re watching the show tonight, right?” I slurped up some of the noodles and Devin laughed.
“Yeah. I’m always over here watching it. The only thing missing is Mitch and Megan.”
“Speaking of which, you do realize if he pops the question this week I’ll have won the bet?”
“I didn’t think about it too much but it does seem like the perfect time to pop the question. I guess I’ll have to hand the victory over to you.”
“We’ll see. Now we just have to wait. They would call if it happened, wouldn’t they?”
“Maybe they want to surprise everyone when they get home or wait to tell everyone together.”
“Right, Em. I forgot about her briefly. Is it bad that I like that I’m here without anyone bothering me?”
“You mean is it bad that you’re glad Em isn’t here?” Devin shook his head. “No. You haven’t had a break since you and Mitch started doing this on your own. You deserve the break. I just hope I’m not barging in on your rest.”
I smiled. “At first I thought this would be difficult but I find it rather fun. I’m glad you’re here to bother me.”
“It’s good to hear it from your lips,” he said as I finished what was left on my plate just in time for the show to come on.
I stood up and put my plate away and held out my hand. “Come on, the show is about to start.”
Devin grabbed my hand and followed me to the living room. “You sitting in your chair again?” I asked.
“Always do, why, you want to join me?” he asked, sitting down on the oversized chair. He patted the place next to him, and I shrugged my shoulders like I didn’t care either way. I did though, I wanted to sit with him again. To have his arms wrapped around me. I grabbed the blanket and sat next to Devin, situating myself comfortably then throwing the blanket over the two of us.
“Do you have the remote?” I asked. Devin held up the remote and turned on the TV set and switched it to ABC. “It’s starting.” I tapped him excitedly on his arm.