#Chapter 11: A Wanton Realization

Dylan’s number dialed, I pressed the phone to my ear. Nervous, I wrapped my free arm around my waist. Asher hovered nearby, close but not touching. At this distance, he would likely be able to hear everything said on both sides. Good. Then he would know I wasn’t lying. It took several rings for Dylan to answer. When he finally did, he sounded pleasant, but not quite his usual fully-chipper self. “It’s great to hear from you,” he said. “How is school going?” “Um, okay. How are you?” “I’m great. Well, sort of. It’s nice to hear your voice.” I swallowed, hoping he would still think so in the next five minutes. “Dylan, I really need to talk to you about something.” “Oh. Hold on a second.” Dylan covered the receiver. I heard mumbled noises but couldn’t make out what they were. “Sorry. Things are kind of hectic right now. Are you sure you’re okay?” “Yes, but…” “I’m sorry, Cynthia. I can’t really talk right now. If you’re okay, we’ll talk later, alright?” “Dylan,” I tr