Fragile Hearts

7: Triple Date

Tyce knocks on my dorm door. Lucy's showed up five minutes ago. The three of us have been hanging out together for the past two weeks, ever since I agreed to be friends with Tyce. He's a great guy and I still can't figure out why he wants to hang out with me so much. Sometimes I see him on campus when he doesn't see me. He always has girls vying for his attention. Some of them have even tried to get to know me, but I can see in their eyes what they really want-time with Tyce. Lucy is the only one who is genuine. Of course, maybe I'm just jaded and read things into people that really aren't there. Being on my own is confusing at times, but I have to admit, I'm starting to adjust and like it. My mom or dad used to call every day, but now it's about three or four times a week. I know they're slacking off because they want me to know what it's like to not be so dependent on them. I'm reconciled to the fact that I will one day be totally on my own. Sometimes the thought is so scary that I have nightmares. But at least those nightmares aren't as horrible as the ones about the night of the accident.

I follow Tyce and Lucy to the truck and Tyce lifts me into the cab after Lucy climbs in. She always rides in the king cab, but this time I insisted that she sit in the center, beside Tyce. I know she likes him and I guess I'm trying to set them up. They get along great.

Before he closes the door, Tyce reaches and pushes aside a strand of hair that's blown across the scar on my face. Lately, I've been forgetting about the scar. His fingers touching my face make my body tremble and I lean away. He only smiles and closes the door.

We're going to see a funny, chic-flick. Inside the theater, I maneuver my chair to the special access area near the front of the screen. I hate having to sit so close.

Tyce leans down and whispers in my ear, "Would you like to sit higher up?"

Lucy answers for me. "Of course she would. This is so close she's shaking hands with the actors."

I start to tell them its okay; I'm used to it, when Tyce says, "Grab my neck, Morgan. Lucy, make sure the wheelchair is stowed somewhere safe."

Lucy says, "You got it."

Tyce lifts me into his arms and I gingerly place my hands on his shoulders. I'm getting over my aversion to touching or being touched, and I'm thrilled about finally watching a movie from the upper level.

Tyce climbs the stairs as if I weigh nothing. He says, "How high, Princess?"

I grin because I can't help myself. "As high as we can go."

"Your wish is my command," he says low, and walks to the very top and gently sets me in a seat that backs the wall.

A few people have turned to watch us, but I'm learning to not be so sensitive to other people's inquisitiveness. Lucy joins us and I pat the seat next to me. She sits on one side and Tyce on the other. I was hoping they would sit beside each other.

After a couple of minutes, Tyce asks, "What can I get you ladies from the concession?"

Lucy says, "A large popcorn with lots of butter, Pepsi, and anything chocolate."

Tyce looks at me while I watch the onscreen advertisements. I start to ask for a small popcorn with no butter and a 7-Up, but then I grin. "I'll have the same." I reach into my pocket and pull out money.

Tyce puts his hand on mine. "I've got it."

I start to protest but he's already gone.

Lucy leans over and says, "I love going on dates with you two."

Startled, I respond, "We're not on a date. And if we were, I'd say it's the other way around. You're on a date with Tyce."

Lucy pats my knee. "Hon, you are so delusional. That man's got the hots for you."

"No way!"

"Yes, way!"

"No!"

"Girl, fight it all you want, but this train has left the station."

I want to keep arguing with Lucy, but she always has to have the last word. I don't want her embarrassing me in front of Tyce.

Lucy giggles and I ignore her.

Tyce returns with our goodies just as the lights dim and the previews start. It looks like a lot of good movies are going to hit the theaters soon. I wonder if we'll still be triple dating. I grin at my silliness.

The movie is very romantic and funny. I can't remember when I've laughed so much. When there's a scene with the couple kissing and going to bed, I'm glad it isn't explicit. Even though the theater is dark, I can feel my face burning.

Tyce puts his arm around the back of my chair and lightly places his hand on my shoulder. I can't help thinking Lucy should be sitting in my spot.

After the movie, we go to the drive up window at McDonald's and Tyce teases us about getting him to watch a chic-flick. He says he gets to choose the next movie and it's going to be action packed with lots of car chases and crashes. Lucy says that's okay, just as long as there are some steamy scenes. She always says what's on her mind. I envy her freedom of speech.