"Is that Zeke?" Sarah asks, noticing my expression.
"Yeah. He's just- checking in."
"That's sweet."
"Yeah." I force a smile. "Sweet."
We talk for another hour, and it's good. Really good. I laugh more than I have in weeks, feel more like myself. But the whole time, I'm aware of my silenced phone, of the texts probably piling up, of Zeke waiting for me to tell him I'm ready to be picked up.
When Sarah and I finally hug goodbye, I pull out my phone to find seven missed texts.
*Just checking in.*
*You've been quiet. Everything okay?*
*Kota, can you just let me know you're alright?*
*I'm starting to worry.*
*Please answer.*
*I'm coming to get you.*
*On my way.*
The last text was sent three minutes ago.
Frustration flares hot in my chest. I text back quickly: *I'm fine. Was just t
