“Jesus, man, it’s been a long flight, a hell of a long night, and I need to talk to her.”
“Fine, first a test.”
“You’re serious?”
“Are ju Lance?”
“Yes.”
“Then jes, a test.”
“Come on with it, man.”
“How did ju find her?”
“The internet. I follow you, and her sister,” I shrug, “easy to piece together.”
“So ju stalked?”
“I guess so, yeah. I mean, I’ve kept up with her because I care about her.”
“But, ju were not invited.”
“No. We’ve established that.”
“So, hot man, what makes ju tink che wants ju to come now after all dis time?”
“Dude, I know you’re her best friend, and you’re trying to protect her, but I’ve never hurt her.”
“Why ju wait so long?”
“She left me.”
“No, che didn’t.”
“Jes, che did.”
“It’s not nice to make fun of my accent.”
“I apologize, but you’re pissing me off.”
“I am a ju S citizen.”
“I’m happy for you. We’re in the same club.”
“Are ju always this grumpy? Ju know it’s Christmas time, right?”
“Are you fucking serious?”
“About Christmas, jes.” He shakes his head. “Yeah, no, with dis…” he thrusts his hands my way, “disposition, dis is not good. Ju comes back when ju have a better attitude.”
The door opens behind him, and for the first time in two years, I get a look at her. My heart slams into my chest when her mouth parts. Seconds of silence stretch as we take the other in.
“Hey, Priss.” Despite my irritation and the obstacle between us, I can’t help my smile. René’s gaze ping-pongs between us before resting on Harper, who is still gaping at me, a mist in her eyes.
“Lance…W-what are you doing here?”
“Just thought I’d fly to New York to stand on your doorstep and get my nuts snipped by your roommate.”