a work in progress

Chapter 23 - i carry it with me

"It's Matias' last week at work."

"How do you feel about that?"

"I'm okay. I've fallen back into my rhythm this past week and a half."

"I agree, you have."

"You're right, I have," I repeat, not sure who I'm reassuring.

"What are you apprehensive about?"

"What do I have to be apprehensive about," I ask uneasily.

"Stop dodging."

"Dodging?"

"Yes. Enough with the echoing," Dr. Logan continues clearly annoyed.

"I'm not meaning to repeat you. I'm just thinking. I, I just don't know."

"That's something I can work with. There's something in that. There's something going on in that high-powered brain of yours that can let you know what you don't know, or why you don't know."

"Is that something that you're going to make me talk through right now?"

"Only because it is now 3:59 do you have a reprieve, but I want you to write it out. Think about it because his last day will be here sooner than you know it and whatever it is that's wearing on you will probably make its biggest appearance that day."

"Thank you for that prophecy Dr. Logan. I'll be going now."

"Next week."

"Indubitably."

I walk away from Dr. Logan's en route to happy hour with Harper and Hayley. Harper's going to tell us about Sebastian. He was her last match at the Appeteaser, and apparently they really clicked. He's lasted longer than most – a whole week. He's German on his mother's side, and Brazilian from his father. Apparently he's a bronze, blonde, green-eyed god and Harper is absolutely smitten.

"MC!" Hayley sings as I find her standing outside the restaurant.

"Hi, Hay," I call in response, hugging her as I do.

"Have you heard from Harper?"

"Of course not, but she wouldn't be Harper if she was on time. Let's go inside and grab a table. She'll be able to find us."

"Don't be so quick to traipse off without me," Harper bellows walking down the sidewalk.

"We wouldn't dream of it," I scream acrimoniously.

"Harper, yay! We're so glad you're here. Now we can get our seats together."

"I appreciate your enthusiasm," Harper cheeps leaning down to give Hayley a hug and a peck on the cheek.

After my hug we separate and make our way into the restaurant. According to The Observer, The Spoon is the picture urban dining – whatever that means. They're apparently known for their low-cost gourmet meals. Inside the décor is very shabby chic with white linen everywhere. Fresh air blows in from the open windows and it makes me feel like I'm on a quaint patio in the heart of Paris or Spain, or somewhere European.

"Welcome to the The Spoon ladies. Will this be all in your party today?"

"Yes. There'll just be three today," I answer for the group. "Could we have a seat on the patio maybe?"

"Certainly. Right this way."

The host leads us through throngs of strategically placed tables, booths and small groups of people chatting casually on this Wednesday evening. "Will this work for you?" he asks peering at an outdoor booth.