Chapter 11

I use the spare key and let myself into Kate's apartment, sliding a bottle of wine into the refrigerator. I take off my shoes and blazer, drop my purse on the living room floor, and throw myself onto her couch. I hold one of the throw pillows to my face and let out a scream. After releasing my frustrations, I lay on my side, pull my knees up to my chest, and mindlessly look around Kate's studio apartment. Though small, the room is surprisingly spacious. A large TV is mounted on the faded brick wall, surrounded by pictures of us as children and up through our college graduation. Her full size bed is nestled in the back corner and I have half a mind to crawl into it and fall asleep, though I doubt my racing mind would let me. I dig my phone out of the pocket of my blazer and I notice a missed call from my mom. I unlock the screen and dial her number.

"Hey, Kris." My mother's cheery voice greets me after the second ring.

"Hi Mom, I saw you called. What's going on?" I sigh, rubbing my