Chapter 56

Staring into the tree-lined edge of our property as I balance on the swing I have perched my ass on, I’m not swaying but focused on the sunny parts in the distance, even though I am in the concealed shade to get some thinking time. It’s been here as long as I can remember and used to be the spot Dane and I would come to when we had something to say to one another. Secluded and pretty, with no direct view from our house. Not that it’s why I am here today. I just needed head space and have no idea where he is. My mood is weird, and coming home from the few days I spent with Elisa to do schoolwork before we go back on Monday didn’t help me focus.

I needed time out of this situation to ensure I didn’t see Dane then.

I sigh, resting my temple against the cold chain to my left, tucking one leg under me and leaving the other to dangle while I pick at the cuff of my sweater. Lost in a nothing trance of not thinking but deflated and depressed with a foggy mind. I had a lot of time the