THE GIRL WHO STAYED FOR ONLY ONE SUMMER

Chapter 11

Maya’s car was packed by seven.

Her suitcase was in the trunk.

Her camera bag was beside it.

Ethan stood on the porch.

She looked at him.

“You’re really not coming?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“Because if I come, I’ll ask you to stay.”

Her eyes filled.

She walked toward him.

“I wish you would.”

“I know.”

She hugged him.

He held her tightly.

Then she kissed him.

Once.

Twice.

The third time, she pulled away first.

“Take care of yourself.”

“You too.”

She got into the car.

The engine started.

Ethan stood there.

Maya rolled down the window.

“Ethan.”

“Yeah?”

She smiled through tears.

“Thank you for Greyhaven.”

He shook his head.

“You found it.”

She looked at him.

Then drove away.

Ethan watched until the car disappeared around the bend.

He didn’t move.

The porch was suddenly very quiet.