I wasn’t going to fight her. “Do you want me to order you one?” I pulled out my phone, knowing the answer already. “It’ll be here in six minutes. By the time we get to the lobby, it will be out front.” I stood and held out my hand. We took the long way around the room, careful to avoid running into Parker again.

“I won’t be out too long.” I kissed her as she slipped into the Lyft. “Let me know when you make it home.” I stayed outside for a few moments before going back inside. I needed fresh air.

“Oh, good. I thought you left without saying bye.” Max walked out on my way in.

“I was putting Lexi in a Lyft.”

He put his hands on my upper arms. “How are you doing?”

I walked right into his arms for another hug. “It’s been an emotional night. What are your plans?”

“I’m going to hang out with you. Let’s promote your charity.” He escorted me inside and walked me to my charity table. He took a couple of photos and posted them along with a link to my website that asked for donations.

“Sutton, can I talk to you a minute?” Parker asked.

I turned and found her about five feet from me. I looked at Max.

“I’m going to grab a beer. Do either of you want anything?” he asked.

My mouth was dry and swallowing was impossible. “I’ll take a water,” I said. Parker shook her head and Max slipped away quickly. “What’s going on?”

“I’d like to sit down and chat with you sometime if that’s all right. I know it’s been a long time. If you don’t want to, I understand.” She touched my arm briefly but pulled her hand away when I looked down at her fingertips on my skin. As though she recognized my waffling, she added, “I want to know what your life has been like since high school. It sounds like it’s been an amazing ride.”

My anxiety was at a ten when I first arrived and now I couldn’t feel anything at all. Maybe the initial shock of sharing space with her was over. Our relationship was half a lifetime ago and maybe we really could be friends. It would be good for Grayson, the team, and honestly, good for me. I loved her deeply a long time ago and I did want to know about her life since we split.

“Yeah, that sounds nice. I’d like to hear what you’ve been up to as well.”