Another One

Anne

“Hi Anne,” she greeted, rather forced.

“Hi, Arya,” I replied excitedly. I was glad to see a familiar face. Somehow, I felt her presence would create a less awkward ambiance for Vincent and me. “Is Rebecca here?” I asked, looking over her shoulder into the house.

“No, Anne,” came her clipped reply.

“Thank God! Umm… where is he?” I asked eagerly, smiling from ear to ear.

Finally!

“You can’t be here, Anne,” she stated, never returning my smile or my excitement.

“Why not?” I asked with a small frown, oblivious to her foul mood that must have begun the minute she saw me.

I thought the answer she would give would be that Rebecca could show up anytime and cause a scene. That was why I said, “Don’t worry. I’ll be quick. I know he still doesn’t remember me. If he did, he would have come straight to see me. But it’s not an issue. I just want to see him. I can introduce myself as your friend,” I rushed, gasping for air when I finished.

“That won’t be possible,” she stated unsmilingl