Chasing Daylight

Chapter Forty-Five

It's brighter now

-Taylor Swift

Mason

"I hate this," Max mumbled tugging on his tie.

"Suck it up, Maria wanted us all there and her Uncle is paying," I said rolling my eyes.

"Do you think she's okay?" Max asked as we walked up to the restaurant doors.

"I guess we're going to find out," I replied. I was so worried, but I had a feeling I didn't need to be; however when I saw Maria I could tell she was off. She was talking with Sophie, but she looked distant and tired. Luckily Sophie had left the seat next to Maria open, so I could slide in next to her.

"Hey boys," Mark said with a kind smile as Max plopped down next to Sophie and gave Mark a wave.

"Everything went alright?" I asked nervously.

"Perfectly," Mark nodded.

"Good," I smiled feeling slightly relieved. I turned to Maria and placed a hand on her thigh. "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

"I'll be fine," she said gently.

"But you're not right now?" I asked. "Do you need to go home?"

"No, I want to enjoy dinner," she answered giving me a little smile that I knew wasn't completely genuine.

"Okay," I nodded rubbing my thumb over her skin gently. "What are you thinking about getting?"

"A steak," Maria answered, "I've really been craving one."

"Sounds good," I nodded.

"So boys what did you two do all day?" Mark asked pulling us away from our conversation.

"I went to the gym today," Max replied.

"I had classes and work," I answered.

"Sounds like a busy day," Mark nodded. "You all only have a few months left, right?"

"Yes thank goodness," Sophie laughed.

"What are you all doing this summer?" Mark asked.

"Mason and I usually stay in town because we both have jobs," Max answered.

"I usually go home, but I'm not really sure anymore," Sophie answered glancing down at her hands.

"What about you Maria? Are you planning on staying here for the summer? Might be nice to have some downtime with all your friends," Mark said gently.