Now, now," my father said. "Let's just get the bags." This was typical. My father, the lone male in our estrogen-heavy household, had always dealt with any kind of emotional situation or conflict by doing something concrete and specific. Discussion of cramps and heavy flow at the breakfast table? He was up and out the door to change oil on one of our cars. Coming home in tears for reasons you just didn't want to discuss? He'd go make you a grilled cheese, which he'd probably end up eating. Family crisis brewing in a public place? Bags. Get the bags.
Sarah DessenYes, it sucked getting dumped. But wasn't it better to just be brutally honest? To admit that your feeling for someone is never going to be powerful enough to justify taking up any more of their time? I was doing him a favor, really. Freeing him up for a better opportunity. In fact, I was a practically a saint, if you really thought about it. Exactly.
Sarah DessenWell, it's New Year's now but I don't feel that way anymore. I wonder if you do either. Something's happening to me. It's like I'm shrinking smaller and smaller and I can't stp it. There's just os much wrong that I can't imagine the shame in admitting even the tiniest part of it. When you left it was like there was this huge gap to fill, but instead of spreading wide enough to do it I just fell right in, and I'm still falling. Like I'm half-asleep, and I can't wake up, can't wake up.
Sarah DessenSo say Iโm your mom.' 'What?' I said. 'Iโm your mom,' he repeated. 'Now tell me you want to quit modeling.' I could feel myself blushing. 'I canโt do that,' I said. 'Why not?' he asked. 'Is it so hard to believe? You think Iโm not a good role-player?' 'No,' I said. 'Itโs justโ' 'Because I am. Everyone wanted me to be their mother in group.' I just looked at him. 'I justโฆ Itโs weird.' 'No, itโs hard. But not impossible. Just try it.' A week earlier, I hadnโt even known what color his eyes were. Now, we were family. At least temporarily.
Sarah Dessen