Chapter 13
Chapter Thirteen
SAM
Day One
I’m surprised at Will’s choice of hotel.
The Laurel Hotel is popular with a certain kind of tourist, and I’m not sure that he’s one of them.
But maybe he is. Maybe that shy exterior is discarded at places like The Laurel.
Maybe that’s where he can shine, excel, be his true authentic self.
Whatever it is, I don’t judge. It’s a reminder, though, of how much we’ve changed since we last saw each other.
I can’t believe Will is here. I’ve been looking for a chance to feel like I have a friend again. Now here’s an old one. It might only be for twenty-five days, but it’s something, at least.
He’s come for a wedding.
Maybe I’ll find out more about it tonight.
My stomach flutters at the thought of seeing Will again later.
I head to my bedroom, rooting through my clothes, deciding what I should wear.
I haven’t felt the need to dress up in forever.
Running a hand over my bare chest, I’m aware that I should wear a shirt tonight, even though the evening will no doubt be warm. What would he like?
I pick out a linen shirt, dark blue. I pause.
Why am I considering Will’s taste? I guess I’m excited to have someone to talk to again.
All the memories of our friendship from boyhood came rushing back.
I’ve often thought about Will, wondering how he was getting on, but I never bothered to find him online.
We were kids, I’ve told myself. He wouldn’t even remember me.
Well, turns out he does. Should have reached out after all.
I give up choosing an outfit – I’m not much of a planner – and instead take stock of my apartment.
My Nintendo Switch is beneath my TV, and I think about inviting Will over to play Pokémon.
Like old times. I open my phone, finding the Pokémon Go app.
I bet Will plays. If he does, how I can add him?
What level is he? This childish glee makes me rock on my feet, as I scroll through all the Pokémon I’ve caught on this game since it launched.
Maybe Will’s not into it anymore, but I feel like he should be.
If he’s not, I’ll remind him of what he’s missing.
I almost skip on my way to the bathroom, ready for the evening ahead. God, I’ve missed having a friend.