Lost in Translation

Chapter 39: Three Round Therapy

———Ben———

Saturday, July 13th, 2019

I drove back to the pack as I white-knuckle gripped the steering wheel. I was dimly aware of the radio cycling through different songs, but I wasn't listening enough to identify them. Waves of conflicting emotions rolled through me, and I went from grinding my teeth out of anger to feeling like I was going to burst into tears in the span of a single red light.

I parked Anthony's car in his driveway and turned it off, but I didn't get out or even take my hands off the steering wheel. I just sat there and stared at the garage door as I tried to even out my breathing.

My eyes slowly slid to my phone as it buzzed in the cupholder. Val's name flashed across the caller ID, but I let it ring out. I knew she was in my corner, but I didn't think I could handle her righteous anger right now with how all over the place I felt.

It was almost 3 am, so I eventually forced myself to get up. I walked home and let myself in the back way. I doubted anyone was awake, but I didn't want to risk running into anyone. I was not in the mood. I crawled into bed and fell asleep to the sound of my phone buzzing.

———————

Sunday, July 14th, 2019

I woke up in a haze as Anthony's scent washed over me. I reached out to pull him closer, but the spot next to me was empty. I sat up in confusion before the memory of yesterday hit me. I picked up the pillow next to me that still smelled like Anthony and threw it angrily to the floor.

I felt awful, both physically and mentally. When I picked up my phone from my nightstand to check the time, it was only 7 a.m., which meant I had barely slept. I had about eight missed calls and 15 text messages from Val, which made me feel a twinge of guilt.

Me: hey, I'm sorry

Me: I crashed as soon as I got home

Me: I know you're probably still asleep

ValPal: I'm still up. I couldn't sleep

ValPal: Are you ok? I can come over if you need me.

Me: No, it's ok, you can get some sleep

Me: I feel like I need some time to process anyway

ValPal: ok, just let me know if you change your mind

ValPal: ... sorry I punched him :[]

I snorted at her message.

Me: Don't worry about it, he kind of deserved it

Me: Maybe next time avoid his face though

Me: I like that part

Me: Assuming there is a next time : /

ValPal: : (

ValPal: I'm really sorry Ben

Me: It's ok. Get some sleep, I'll be ok.

ValPal: Ok... call me if you need me though, I won't mind.

Me: Thanks Val

ValPal: <3

I set my phone aside and let out a deep sigh. I didn't think I'd be able to fall back asleep, so I dragged myself into the shower. I felt like I was moving through molasses, and the hot water started to run out by the time I was done.