Hope for the Hopeless [Jemily]

Strangers at Last

July 18, 1995
— Emily's POV
I've gotten dressed and undressed and redressed at least three times already this morning. I gave Jennifer my address and she was coming over today at noon, conveniently right after my mom would be leaving for the Embassy. A black graphic tee and cuffed jeans won my dressing battle. I tucked my shirt into my waistband and secured it with a belt before pulling on my Doc Martens.

I looked myself over in the mirror and nodded with confidence— I looked cool. But was still nervous as hell. Deep breaths, Emily. Deep breaths. I calmed myself down a little more before walking to Mother's office to say goodbye before she left. "Mother?"

She busily packed up her briefcase, "Yes, Emily?"

"Did you need anything from me before you left?"

She looked up at me, "I don't think so... Why?"

"No reason."

"You never ask me that. What's going on?"

"Nothing. Just seeing if you needed anything is all."

"All right, well I don't. Just the usual rules: no parties, no sneaking out without Joseph or Gregory, no binge eating—"

"Yeah I got it."

"Okay then. I'll see you when I get back." She flung her bag over her shoulder and headed out the door. I happily shut it behind her and waited for Jennifer to get here. At 11:56, the doorbell rang. I shook out some of my stress and then opened it up.

Jennifer smiled, "Hi."

"Hi to you too." My eyes roamed all over her adorable figure, taking in her intoxicating aura. She had on a striped shirt and light washed jeans, paired with white sneakers.

She raised an eyebrow and giggled, "Aren't you gonna let me in?"

"Oh uh, r-right right." I stepped to the side and let her pass by me.

She gasped when she entered the foyer, "Woah! You live here?"

"Seems to be that way, yes."