MACEY

Samantha left my apartment as early as she could the next morning. My brother’s inability to chill for even a few hours forced her out sooner than I wanted. Mason had texted her that he was waiting outside, treating her like she was sneaking out of a college dorm instead of my apartment. I hugged her tight, soaking up every second before she slipped away.

“Text me when you get home,” I called. She waved from the hallway, her smile soft and warm, the sweet mom friend I had always ...