Come by the shop at five today. I’ve got something to tell you. Don’t worry, he-who-shall-not-be-named won’t be here.

Electricity shoots across my body at the idea of returning to the shop. The chance of seeing Devin again makes my mind race and my heart do backflips. I don’t answer and she texts again.

Everyone misses you! Rob keeps sniffling when he looks at your computer system. He says it’s allergies, but I’m not buying it.

Becs has no qualms about playing dirty. She knows I adore that man and his bushy mustache. I text back that I’ll try, not wanting to confirm for sure where I’ll be or when, just in case this is a set-up.

I drive through the parking lot slowly, checking each and every car to make sure Devin’s isn’t here. My stomach is churning and my heart is racing. I feel like I’m slipping behind enemy lines. The familiar bell over the door announces my arrival. Rob and Becs, who were both engrossed with a magazine on the counter, look up to find me standing in the shop, waving awkwardly.

“Jessie!” Becs squeals, jumping over the counter and rushing at me. She wraps her arms around me, tighter than a boa constrictor. Rob’s warm chuckle soothes my nerves as he hugs the both of us.

“We missed you around here. This one most of all,” Rob tells me. Becs levels him with a stern gaze. “Well, second most, I suppose.” My heart swirls in my chest at the off-hand comment. He must be talking about Devin. Has he missed me? I can’t picture it. He’s too mad at me to miss me.

I avoid the bait and slip out of the group hug. “I missed you two too.” I slink over to the far side of the shop, peeking into the office to make sure he’s not lurking in the back.

“He’s not here.” Becs’ voice startles me as I search the small office with my eyes, picturing every inch of Devin’s large body from memory.

I clear my throat and force lightness into my voice. “Okay. So, what’s this news you had to tell me in person?”

Becs bounces over to the magazine on the counter. I follow behind her, still nervous and on edge, scanning the small shop for the man I love and am desperate to avoid.

“I’m going!” Becs declares in victory. I shake my head, trying to focus on my friend. Seeing that I’m not following, she holds up the magazine. Not a magazine, a brochure. For Notre Dame. “I’m going to Notre Dame.”

I hug her tight. “That’s great, Becs. I’m so happy for you.” I try to find the words to ask about Devin, but can’t.