Chapter 48: Homeward Bound (Simon)

I toss back a second shot of tequila and wince slightly as it burns on the way down. I push my shot glass to the edge of the bar and flag down the bartender for another.

I am done with classes until fall and I plan to head back to Minnesota for the summer. I should be resting before I start my long drive tomorrow but all I can think about is the hollow feeling in my chest I get every time I think about going back.

I was an idiot and pushed Audra away. I finally had my chance with her and I blew it because I panicked like I always do. She was willing to come be with me wherever I go and instead of embracing it, I told her to find someone else.

After everything she went through with Tyler, I naively thought she would just stay single and wait until I graduate.

I scroll through my Facebook newsfeed and a news article from the Star Tribune catches my eye. It is from the recent charity gala. There is a slideshow of photos from the event. For curiosity’s sake, I scroll through and see m