RIVER

Javier had insisted on my going with the cab to avoid the awkwardness that would linger if we stayed together. I agree and go in the cab. When I open the door, Taylor is standing in the kitchen, gulping down a bottle of juice. His eyes drop on me and make me a bit uncomfortable with his gaze.

I step in and drop, standing still as if I were waiting for his approval to go into the room.

"You are early," he said after he took the bottle from his mouth.

"I took a cab."

"I thought you were ...