Why is she looking at the freaking ground. I’m right here. I’m trying. I’m doing my best. Dramatic little…

“Look, I really care about you and want to make this right.”

At least answer. Say something so I know where you’re at, and we can get on with things, with us, or not, or something. Something, something, something—always something with you.

“I talked to your mom.”

She flinched. I saw it. Oops, that may have been a low blow. Technically it wasn’t so much a conversation with her mom as me being yelled at over the phone when I tried to call last night, after having tried a few times. A dozen times? More like twenty? I lost track.

“Come on, Pookie, don’t be like this.”

Dang, pet name didn’t work. She’s really mad, or something. Dang, she is cute though. Dramatic, but cute.

“Can…can I just give you a hug?”

No answer, but she didn’t move back. She didn’t move forward either. Better not risk it.

“Sweetie, I love you.”

Didn’t work. I wonder how much she knows?"