"I know. I have you, and I'm really grateful for that. I just..." I rubbed my temples, wanting to stop the words, the whining, but found I was unable to do so. "I had friends, or so I thought. But I was just kinda orbiting Sandra and Jonah, and I didn't realize it. Like you said, it's quiet now. Those connections are cut, and I dunno what to do now."
She took my hand with a tight smile. "Jonah's friends come around, still. They didn't cut me out, maybe you can reconnect with them."
"Alice and Kerry and all them?"
"Mhmm."
"I have... concerns," I said diplomatically.
"And what are those concerns?"
"That look in your eyes? They do the same. Like they're looking for Jonah in me, and are disappointed that I'm not more like him."
"I don't..." she looked so guilty.
"You do." I locked eyes
