I finally had to invest in a dining room table because the bar was getting a little too crowded. For the past year, since Lake and I have been together, Gavin and Eddie have been eating with us at least twice a week. I call Kel and Caulder into the kitchen to have them set the table. He grimaces when he remembers the Alfredo.

“It’s probably not a bad thing,” I say as I loosen the fries from the pan. “Will, do you ever notice how we somehow always get stuck cooking?” “Burgers.” I hand him a spatula and point to the stove, instructing him to flip the burgers while I pull the fries out of the oven. He slips his shoes off at the door and makes his way into the kitchen. It’s not an official knock, but at least he’s making an attempt. Eddie heads across the street to Lake’s house, and Gavin walks inside, tapping his knuckles against the front door. Is there a sign on my house instructing people not to knock? Lake never knocks anymore, but her comfort here apparently extends to Eddie as well. “IS LAYKEN OVER HERE OR over there?” Eddie asks, peering in the front door. That’s all I really have to say right now… We’re having dinner with Gavin and Eddie tonight. I wouldn’t be able to do it without them, that’s for sure. Luckily, my grandparents have been supportive while I work on my master’s degree.

For right now, though, I’m living off student loans. Hopefully, by this time next year, I’ll be teaching again. I’m thinking about applying to local schools for another teaching job after next semester. Didn’t get the days I wanted, but I only have two semesters left, so it’s getting harder to be picky about my schedule.

Slammed and point of retreat