“John, finally!” I call out, stepping through the turnstile. “Are you ready? I’m

about to hop on the subway, on my way to your place. I’ll be there in ten

minutes, max.”

“Abby,” he croaks, and instantly, I know something’s not right. I freeze in my

tracks. The life and vibrancy in his voice are gone, replaced by something that

sounds a lot like misery.

“John? You sound awful. Are you okay?”

He coughs. “I… I was up all night, throwing up. I feel terrible, Abby.” His voice

sounds like a poker being raked over hot coals.

Enter title…

Instantly, the scolding mom in me surfaces. “Oh my God, John, did you drink too

last night? We talked about this—today

couple drinks

interrupts, his voice shaky. “I only had

I swear, Abby. It’s

is it, then?” I asked, my heart practically pounding

it’s food poisoning or something. Look, I’m

even have to go to the hospital

hand tightening around my

“Hospital? Are you

sure. Do you think

Especially today?”

despair in his voice cuts through me,

again and clears his throat, and I can

from the

cup so tight I might

it goes without

chef

flipping through a whole host of emotions—worry for

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255