The next few weeks

You and Emily don't see each other for a few weeks. You are busy with school and your part-time job, but there is also this deep seated guilt that you fucked everything up. Emily still texts you, and you dutifully reply but there is this feeling that you are both unsure what do.

Finally, you break down and write a long and honest message:

Hey, I am sorry I haven't seen you, I fucked everything up. I got so carried away with what I was doing, and, well, fuck. I am so sorry. I am not sure I can face ever seeing your dad and mom again. I hope I haven't messed things up between you either. This is my fault.

It is with a heavy heart that you see the message go to read, and then nothing. Distraught you go to bed but find it impossible to sleep as your mind shoots through all the possible things that your best friend is thinking and feeling, but not saying. Finally, you drift off to sleep to restless dreams.

In the morning you feel terrible but there is some hope when you see a couple of messages from Emily:

No, it is not your fault, I wanted to blame you but the truth is I did it of my own accord. Life in the house has been weird as fuck. Dad doesn't even look me in the eye but I don't think my mom knows. We should hang out, I miss you.

And then:

Okay, so, um, scratch that. I think my mom knows. Message me when you wake up!

You are flooded with relief and text her back telling her to come over. She messages back that she is on her way.

You get out of bed and quickly clean up any obvious mess.

Your doorbell goes off just after you get out of the shower and your roommate Rainie answers for you. You can tell it is Rainie because her loud, welcoming voice can be heard through the house.

You rush to greet your friend and give her a massive hug.

You pull away and for a second the dumbest thought in your head pops up.

You should kiss her.

The two of you pause in that embrace, looking at each other. Then Rainie makes a noise and breaks the moment.

The sparkle in her eye, your roommate walks off.

"Shall we just go hang out?" Emily suggests a little self-consciously.

"Sure." You smile.