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Chapter 18

The next few weeks went by fast. With finals coming, deadlines at work and visiting Patrice at the hospital she barely had time to see Mike. She missed him. She walked into Patrice's room to see her sitting up. "You look radiant today." Alice said, kissing her cheek.

"Yeah, right. Where's Alice and what have you done to her? You just came out of work?" She asked, eyeing her clothing.

"Yes. I came with great news." She said taking out a newspaper out of her purse.

"That's all I want to hear."

"I found us a place! It's not that big, but we can afford it. Two separate bedrooms so you can have all the sleepovers you want." Alice said excitedly.

"About that." Patrice said shifting. "I know we had plans and we were going to get a place after graduation, but after what happened, my mom, and I, think the best thing to do is go back home."

"What? You're leaving? You can't do that, Patrice. You're my one and only friend." Alice said, fighting back the tears.

"I know it sucks. But I'm going to need therapy and all the help I can get. You're going to be busy with work and Mike."

"Patrice. This sucks. I thought we would always be together."

"And we will be. We can still talk everyday and we can come visit each other and maybe in the future I could come back and we can make it happen. What do you say?" Patrice said, trying to cheer her friend up.

"I guess. I want the best for you. But promise me we are not going to turn into those friends that say they are going to keep in touch and the calls come once a month, then once a year on special holidays then maybe a postcard once in a while. Or that you won't find another best friend over there."

"I promise you, Alice. Took me too long to break you, not going to let this slide. Now come give me a hug."

"So, you'll be leaving right after graduation?"

"No, I'm leaving the day after tomorrow. Sorry. I finished all my classes already and won't be attending graduation."

"Oh, no!"

"By the way, tell your boyfriend thank you for the floral arrangement." She said pointing to a huge floral arrangement on the table.

"Wow, I only got a single rose from him on our one month anniversary."

"He's trying to butter me up. Bummer I never got to meet him. But he makes you happy, right?"

"He does."

"That's all that matters I guess. Just remember to be careful and protect your heart."