I made a move to get up last night from where I was jammed in the corner of the couch between PJ and Lochlan. Duncan wanted to show me something and PJ actually barred me from getting up.
Tomorrow. PJ tells Duncan. It's late.
Lochlan keeps reading and didn't say a word.
I see. Duncan's face twists into a sly smile. Got your ride or die back, eh Bridge?
I'm busy staring at PJ, who has somehow claimed the night with confidence and it takes me a minute to reply. No, he's right. I'm on my way to dreamland in a minute anyway, if it's okay if it waits til tomorrow?
Of course. He leans in, is careful not to jostle Loch, elbows PJ hard in the ribs and kisses my cheek.
Oh, sorry, Padraig. Didn't see you there. So close. PJ laughs and rubs his side.
I talk quickly. Goodnight Dunk. Love you. I'll come down and wake you in the morning.
Holding you to that. He backs away, pointing to me. Don't be too late.
It's Wednesday tomorrow. I'm up before the moon disappears.
Love you too. He winks and is gone and I turn back.
PJ what was that?
I need some space to find my bearings again.
You don't have to shut Duncan down.
Maybe I do.
Not your job.
Lochlan looks up, sideways at me, then at PJ. Should I get out of the way so you too can fight to the death?
No, you can be the voice of reason though.
Lochlan sighs. Padraig. Leave her be. She's got her own mind.
I know. PJ sighs. It's just been a while since things have been normal.
Both Lochlan and I burst out laughing. Normal? Us? Here? PJ's face falls and I apologize quickly. We're not laughing at you, just the idea that we have any normalcy here at all.
You know what I mean.
Yeah. On that note. Goodnight, Padraig. I kiss his cheek and climb out from behind him on the couch. Tomorrow is an early day.
Lochlan snorts and kisses PJ's cheek too. She's right. And it's normal for you to go to bed alone. He mock-glares at PJ and PJ puts his hands up.
I tried.
You gave it your best.
Jesus, Bridge. Don't agree with me. It makes it worse.