House Rules
At the end of the day you decide to go straight to bed, when your phone buzzes.
You almost don't look. You've had enough of this week. You want to lie down, stare at the ceiling, and let unconsciousness take you before your brain can replay anything else.
But you look. It's Riley.
*Hey. I know I have absolutely no right to ask this. What happened yesterday was not fair to you and I'm more sorry than I can say. I was blinded by my own frustration and did not consider how much this would have hurt you.*
*But if you're willing... I'd really like to stay in touch. Not because Alina told me to. Because I think we're actually going through something similar, you and me. And it helps, sometimes, to have someone who actually gets it.*
*You don't have to answer. I just wanted you to know.*
You sit on the edge of your bed and read it twice.
She's right that it wasn't fair, but she's also right that she's the only person in your life right now who genuinely understands what you are going through.
You type back.
*I'll think about it.*
You put the phone down. It's not forgiveness...yet, but it's not a no either.
You lie back and close your eyes.