Before you knew

18. One night.

We arrive at home, my phone ringing in the big hoodie pocket as Clay unlocks the front door.

'Hello?'
'It's me.'
'Hey Kim.'
'Hi. So mom and I can both go to America. Can you fly us out sometime soon?'
'Of course! I already told you to send me a date, right?'
'Yeah, just wanted to check again, I'll pay my own ticket back.'
'Alright, just send me some dates and I'll get it done.'
'Thanks. Mom and I wanted to stay in a hotel near where you live.'
'That's-'

I stop my words as I look at Clay who walks into the living room, already having taken off his jacket. 'Clay!' I say as I hold the phone to my chest to quiet my words over the phone. He turns to look at me. I walk up to him 'would it be okay if my sister and mom stayed here for a week?' I ask. I know a week is a lot to ask, and I see he doesn't really want to say yes as he stays quiet. 'Sure.' He answers.

I pull the phone up to my ear.

'Stay at mine the first night.'

Clay looks at me in confusion.

'Alright, so just the five nights at the hotel?'
'Yeah.'
'Okay, I'll get that done.'
'I'll get the tickets and send them to you.'
'Thank you! I'm so exited.'
'Me too.'

I smile softly as the idea of beging with my mom and sister again.

'I'll see you soon.'
'You will. Bye bye.'
'Bye!'

I hang up, Clay still standing in front of me.
'I thought I said yes.' He says as he folds his arms. 'You did but it's a lot to ask and I saw you'd rather not. So one night is okay right?' I ask. He lets out a sigh and he smiles softly. 'Thank you. Yes it is.' He says. 'Okay!' I say as I turn to head upstairs and get their tickets. 'Amelia.' I turn around. 'I'm offering a hug.' He says as he opens his arms. This time it's not for me, I know it isn't. I walk over and stand close to him, laying my forehead against his chest as he hugs me like he did before. I hold my arms against my sides. After a minute I move my head up, making him let go of me. I give him a smile before walking off.