Love Thy Neighbor

Chapter 33

Before we know it, Shawn is about to leave on tour. It's such a mix of emotions for both of us. I'm so proud that he's going to perform again. He's been working so incredibly hard since I've met him. The time he put into release the new album (including several singles), to promote his music, to plan a world tour, and to rehearse for that tour so that the stage show is totally new and exciting for his fans is astounding. I cannot wait to hear how he does. He's equally as eager to get on the road. It's been a while since he did a tour like this. He has told me over and over that performing live for his fans and listening to them sing along to his music is what he does it all for.

But it's also very hard for us to say goodbye.

For my 23rd birthday we decide to celebrate just the two of us. He takes me out to a nice dinner where he gives me a necklace with a diamond encrusted heart.

"Pretend this is my heart," he says. "Wear it while I am gone, since my heart will be with you no matter how far away I am."

Shawn's parents host a goodbye party at their home for Shawn's family and closest friends. Several of his friends will make some stops on the tour, as will his family. I'm even planning on joining him for part of the week of my spring break since he'll be in North America. It's when he's touring the Midwest, which is an area I never thought I'd visit. Not that it matters where we are; it's that we'll be together that counts.

"Thank you, everyone, for all your support and for this great send off!" Shawn says enthusiastically after being encouraged to give a speech.

"It's always hard to leave those I love behind. My parents and sister know how I struggled with homesickness when I first toured as an opening act and even on my first world tour. My friends know how much I missed them, too. I know I woke people up a lot with whiny texts from a different time zone. This tour adds a new challenge since I'm leaving everyone I already mentioned, plus my girl, Jessica."

Shawn looks me in the eyes, the pain evident.

"I wish she could come with me, but she has school. I might be the first guy ever who got pushed aside for some statistics classes."

I shake my head, knowing he's kidding, but also that he's not.

"I'll keep in touch with everyone. Love you!" He then lifts his glass and steps towards me. Everyone claps.

"Want to take a walk?" I ask.

"Yeah, I could use some air," he replies, steering us towards the front door.

We walk down his street towards a park a couple blocks away. Our hands are intertwined, but we're silent. There is definitely some tension between us. When we get to the park, we sit on swings next to each other.

"You can text me any time," I say. "And we can Skype."

"I know."

"I'll send you lots of funny pictures of me so you remember how ridiculous your girlfriend is."

"Okay, Jess."

He's not enthusiastic about any of this.

"Shawn, maybe, just maybe, I can send you sexy pics," I say waggling my eyebrow.

He smiles a bit at this. "And we can sext?" he asks.

"I have no idea how, but sure, I'll try," I say.

He rolls his eyes at me. "I have a feeling that might end up more amusing than sexy."

"Oh yeah? I am going to text you something now. It will be practice. You tell me what you think."

I pull my phone out of my front hoodie pocket (which is actually Shawn's hoodie because his are better and warmer) and start typing. He's swinging slightly, watching me with curiosity. I hit send.