Chapter Forty-One
CHAPTER
FORTY-ONE
Jae
I walk up the stairs almost lightheaded. From Uncle Rowan’s apology. From his hug. From what feels like love. I lie down on the bed, sink into it with deep breaths, and stare at the ceiling. Maybe I could use some stars.
My phone buzzes.
Just checking on you.
You don’t have to respond if you don’t want to.
The house is so empty without you.
I stare at the messages that go way back, unanswered.
I picture her sitting at the kitchen table, only one chair occupied, the sunlight from the window illuminating dust and emptiness.
I wonder if she still watches our shows in front of the TV.
I wonder if she steps into my bedroom, seeing all the old treasures I left.
School trip photos and friendship bracelets.
I hear the quiet plod of her feet down the hall.
I put the phone on speaker, hear the ringing and my heartbeat.
“Jae!” she answers, almost breathless. “Oh, Jae.” She sighs into the receiver. “Jae.”