Out.
It felt like a very important thing to keep track of. Because right now, it seemed as though I’d completely forgotten how to breathe.
The car stopped, and I looked around, realizing we were in the parking lot at home.
What was I supposed to do next?
“I’ll walk you up and come in with you if you want me to.” Jillian laid her hand on my shoulder. Her eyes were warm and so full of concern, I nearly started crying. “You let me know what you need from me. Deal?” She crooked her head to the side, and I nodded. “Whatever’s waiting for us up there, I’m here.”
Oh crap, now my eyes did start watering. I blinked back my tears, not ready—not willing to give into my emotions.
Yet.
“Deal. Thanks, Jillybean. You’re the best friend anyone could ask for.”
“Ditto, chickie. Ready?”
I shook my head and sniffed rather loudly. “No. But yeah.”
She nodded and tightened her grip on my shoulder. “Then let’s do this.”
I didn’t know where my courage came from.
Probably the same place I found it when we were down by eight with five minutes left. In a do or die semi-final. That we weren’t going to win. But we’d go down with our heads held high, knowing that we’d done every single thing possible.
My legs were surprisingly steady when I stepped out of her car. Jillian held my door as I got out, probably waiting to see if I could walk on my own. I looked into her kind face and drew on her formidable strength that hid beneath the surface.
Not many people knew how strong Jillian was. She had such fortitude and stamina behind her beautiful face. More than enough to share.
And that she did.
Her strength made you strong, just from being near her.
I pulled my bag out of the backseat, then followed my best friend to my door.