Alexandria's Superman

(twenty-six) never be like you

(Liam's POV)

"See you later, man. Stay safe and be smart," Taylor said as he patted my back. I tossed my singular suitcase in the backseat of my car and turned back toward him.

This weekend is the daddy/daughter dance, so I'm headed down to see Shelby and take Rachael to the dance.

Before everything went down between Ali and I, I planned to take her with me to meet the only family I have left. Obviously not everything can go as I had hoped though.

The car was silent except for the quiet sound of the radio humming random music. It was too low for me to be able to make out any lyrics, not that I cared. The silence was nice for once.

I'd been in the car for roughly 40 minutes when my phone began blaring in the cupholder between my seat and the passenger seat.

Given I was on my way to see my fatherless niece and my widowed sister-in-law, I decided against answering the phone while I was driving. I don't want to risk anything, especially when I'm headed to visit two important girls in my life who'd lost someone important to them for texting and driving.

I waited until I came across a rest stop to pull over and check my phone to see who'd dialed me.

The screen read:
One missed call from Ali Dickson

My breath hitched in my throat as I slid across the screen to call her back.

I prayed that I didn't miss my one chance to talk to her.

My left foot tapped against the floor of the car, waiting for her to answer. Praying she'd answer. I craved to hear her voice.

"Liam?" The crack in her voice pained me, yet part of me was content that she even answered the phone. For all I knew, she could've butt-dialed me earlier without intention.

"Ali... how are you?" I should be getting back on the road so I have time to get ready for the dance tonight, but I should be okay for another 10 minutes. Guys don't take that long to get ready anyway.

"I've been better," She chuckled half-heartedly. I relate. "I think we need to talk."

My foot stopped tapping anxiously. In fact, my whole body froze like someone had pressed pause on my life.

I swallowed my saliva nervously. "I agree. I'm actually headed to Pontiac to visit my niece. The second I get back, we can talk and I'll explain everything." I promised her.

"Okay." Her voice was soft and quiet.

I missed her voice, but I also miss being able to hear the happiness in her tone. I hate that I am the cause of this sadness she is dealing with.

"I'll be home tomorrow night, Ali. We can talk then."

The sooner, the better.

"Okay, I'll see you then. Have a good day, Liam."

"You, too." In slow motion, I hung up the phone and sat it back down in my cupholder.

She wanted to talk to me. Sam must've talked to her, like she assured Michelle and I she would.

Things were beginning to look up. Ali is going to know the truth. We're going to be able to fix what happened between us, no matter how long it takes.