just my luck

“ He’s busy, yeah. You know. Ever since John has been taking some more time to be home, your dad’s just had to work a lot more. Seems like that doesn’t stop at weekends. I think I’m feeling Chinese, too. Have a look online what you want, I’ll call in a bit. Yeah, absolutely. With you? Busy day? How’s Ashlee, has she decided whether she’ll come down to visit for a bit? ”

“That makes sense. I heard about what happened to Lance. That’s rough, I can only imagine what John and Marisol are going through. I’m glad to hear that. Yeah, I’m good. Ashlee’s been taking some time off and is visiting her parents in Wisconsin. We talked on the phone earlier, she said she’ll try to squeeze in a few days to come down here, but that’s still in the open for now. She told me to tell you guys she misses you though. How are you and Dad?”

sunday, 7:29 pm, the sullivan’s guest room

“ Hey. So. Your dad’s out having an important dinner with important people talking about important things.. both your brothers are out seeing friends. Since you’re not doing either of those things, looks like you’ll be stuck with just me. If you’ll have me that is. Are you hungry? We could.. order a pizza. Or Chinese. I think there’s still casserole from the other day in the fridge which we could warm up if you’re feeling that more. ”

“Hey. Course I’ll have you. I just finished up reading this paper, so now I’m free. Dad’s out a lot these days, isn’t he? I’m not used to him being this busy on a weekend. I definitely wouldn’t say no to some Chinese. How’re you doing, mom? Everything alright?”

“ Of course I kept it! Who do you take me for? As much as I like making people believe I’m a heartless bitch, I’m really very sentimental. It’s soo cute. And perfect battery storage. ..Shut up! Doctor Sullivan! No way. Congratulations, dude, that’s fantastic. Very proud of you. Does that mean you wear little white Crocs now? ”

“I haven’t forgotten about that, don’t worry. I do sometimes, actually. They’re quite comfortable. Go perfectly with the coat, too. How about you, where’d you end putting down the roots?”

“ Nope. None yet. Enjoying Hotel Parents until then. Oh! And get this.. you remember that.. that little heart-shaped box you once made me for Valentine’s? I kept my used batteries in it and it also became a victim of the flood.. Yeah. I saved it and brought it, though, so now I’m trying to salvage it. Oh, stop it! Thank you.. this is a.. late-night, I’m-on-my-period-so-I-need-snacks Walmart run look, but.. thanks. You also look good.. I hope that means you’re doing good. ” 

“You kept those? That does massage my ego a little bit, Cari Foster. I still remember spending multiple hours a day on it. The glue I was using just wouldn’t stick. If you need any help with the salvaging, let me know. I’m doing fantastic, really. I’m a doctor now at Chicago hospital. Actually pulled the plan through, so I really can't complain.”

“ Now that’s cute! Still the family man I remember. Well, it’s similar for me. But I can tell a better story about it. My cute little, not-at-all-rundown Ohio apartment.. get this, completely flooded. Uh huh. Like a main water pipe that burst flooded. So, as I was standing ankle deep in freezing water in my own apartment I decided that maybe it’s time to give the folks a visit again too. ”

“So you also haven’t changed much. Sorry to hear about your apartment. Any ideas when you’ll be able to move back in? You look... incredible, by the way. You always did, but it-- anyway. You get what I’m trying to say. Cari Foster. Still can’t believe it.”

“ Well.. I could’ve figured you’re getting snacks. Y’Know.. You’re carrying three bags of Doritos. Still a bad choice, by the way.. Jesus. Roman Sullivan. I meant here. Clarendon Hills, I didn’t know you were in town. ”

“Yeah, right. Sorry. I’m a little-- I wasn’t expecting to see you here. Is all. Crazy. That’s how you get reminded just of how small of a town this is. I stayed with the folks during quarantine, and now I’m going to stay for a little bit longer before going back to Chicago. What are you doing here? Your mother told me ages ago you never moved back after college either.”

tuesday, 11:32 pm, walmart, popcorn and chips aisle 

“ Roman Sullivan..? Say it isn’t you. What are you doing here? ”

“Caroline Foster. I must be dreaming. Wow, we haven’t seen each other since. Well, ages. I’m getting snacks, we’re having a movie night tonight. How have you been?”