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“Sounds like the title to a self-help book”

I eye him “Well, it’s true, isn’t it?”

“What’s true is you’re settling back into just accepting things the way they are I told you, if you don’t like so about your life, or your school, or some jock punk who props his feet up on you every day, do so about it”

I sigh and stab ht of which—at this particular time—reminds me far too much of that first day of school “I just think he’s lost”

Vann studies uy who oes for a chicken strip, then ends up just staring at it without taking a bite, eyes dark and frustrated

My gaze slips over his shoulder where I spot Kelsey and all of the theatre people at their usual table None of theht up in so that has Frankie nearly falling out of his seat busting a gut

“Sorry”

I lift my eyes to Vann “What?”

“I said sorry” He’s still conte fingers “You’re right Should’ve trusted your advice and shrugged it off I won’t confront hiain”

I wasn’t expecting this concession so soon “Thanks”

“It’s not even a jealousy thing Hi you It’s et aith … I guess I’ as you”

“I never said I forgave him”

Vannsettles in them Then he drops his chicken strip and reaches over the table forup into a soft smile I squeeze his hand back That little bit of reassurance is all I need

For now

16 | VANN

My mom stirs creamer into her coffee, and when she lifts her eyes to mine, they are cold “I really wish you wouldn’t interpreta very valid point”