The house is quiet, and I shut the door behind me softly. The lights are out, but the microwave clock flashes and there are candles lit around the whole front living area. I’d heard the electricity was off in the area, but it looks like they managed. Eucalyptus and pear have never smelled so good.

Two forms are lying in the living room. As I get closer, I identify the one on the couch as Tara and the other is Sydney on the floor. Her eyes are closed, but even in sleep, her phone is in her hand as if she’s been waiting for me to call.

I’ve been thinking about what it’d feel like to be back here, hugging her, all night. I swear those hours felt like weeks. I’m not sure why she left in the first place. Maybe she really thought there was a chance I’d get back with Amelia or maybe she’s pissed at Tara—that’d make two of us. But whatever the reason, I don’t want her to run when she’s upset. I want to be her person even when she needs someone to vent to or punch. Though, she’s punched me before and it fucking hurt, so I hope that’s not what she needs right now. I’m so tired it might knock me on my ass.

I’m still staring at her, blonde hair splayed out, the comforter from the bed tossed over her, feet sticking out, when her eyes flutter open. She lifts her head slowly. “Tanner?”

She scrambles to her feet, but I can’t make mine move. I manage to open my arms and brace myself before she throws herself around me.

“You’re really here, right? I’m not dreaming?”

I run a hand down the back of her head, tangling my fingers through her hair. “I’m really here.”

“Are you okay? What happened? Never mind, just kiss me.”

“What if I’m not okay?” I chuckle as I bring my lips to hers.

“Then you better make it a good one that I can remember you by.”

Sweeping my tongue into her mouth and digging my fingers against her back, I try to somehow get her closer. I don’t worry about it being one to remember me by because I’m not going anywhere.

Funny how something as simple as being cut off from the ones you love for half a day can put things in perspective.

“Tanner?” Tara’s groggy voice pulls at my attention.

Sydney and I break apart and I set her down. She moves to my side as Tara hurries to me.

“Oh my god, I was so scared.” She’s crying as she buries her face into my chest, then pulls back and smacks me on the arm.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“For scaring the crap out of us.”