Chapter 41. In Denial

**CHERYL**

“Cheryl!” Gwen's loud, shrill voice was what greeted me as I threw the door to our apartment open.

My eyes widened when I saw her rushing towards me at full speed and then throwing her arms around my neck, she pulled me into her chest.

“Oh, Cheryl! You are back!” she cried and tightened her arms.

I slapped her arm frantically. “You are…choking…me!” I choked out, my voice muffled against her chest.

“What? Oh!” she laughed, dropped her arms, and stepped back. “Sorry,” she murmured sheepishly.

I flashed her a look and rubbed my aching neck. “Are you that anxious to kill me just upon my arrival?” I quizzed her.

She reached out and smacked my arm. “How can you say that!” she exclaimed and pulled a face. “I missed you so much! This house felt so empty without you.”

I patted her hand affectionately. “You missed me that much, huh?” I teased her.

She just rolled her eyes in response and I grinned. “I should travel more often, y