Chapter 13: Life without Karli

Karli and TJ didn't talk after that night. But it wasn't for lack of trying on his part. Each day he tried something different. First he tried calling but only succeeded in filling up her voicemail. He stopped by her apartment and knocked. But just like the phone, no answer came. He did smile though on his way out seeing the remnants from her party and stash in the garbage. TJ was almost half tempted to hold a boom-box outside her window because she'd totally love something corny like that but he didn't. He even stopped by the foundation but she always seemed to be out or in a meeting. By the end of February with no Karli sightings, he finally called Gunner.

"Gunner, it's TJ," he said as the line picked up.

"Hey, how's it going?"

"I'm doin' okay. How about you?"

"I'm doin' good. Been clean this whole time."

"Congrats."

"You still are too aren't you?"

"Yeah."

"So… what can I do for ya?"

TJ chuckled, "It's that obvious huh? Well I was wondering if you've heard anything from Karli. I've tried calling and stopping by but only I only get her voicemail or told she's busy."

"Sorry man, I haven't really seen her either; I mean, I've seen her in passing but even then she keeps moving. I know she's clean though. All thanks to you."

"Yeah I guess," TJ sighed, "Too bad it looks like she doesn't want anything else to do with me."

"It won't last forever man; she's just got some stuff to figure out," when he didn't answer right away, Gunner said, "Karli's been crazy about you for awhile you know and this kinda thing has never happened. She's helped tons of people and always been able to draw the line at friendship, never falling for any of them. Hell, she probably doesn't even know half of them fell for her. I'm sure Michelle was a big part of that but I think the other part is she still keeps herself guarded to a certain extent. But not with you man. Before your Prom thing, she told me she couldn't believe how easy you were to talk to and how much you two had in common. She won't wanna give that up entirely. Just give it some time."

"I hope so. Well…thanks anyway."

"Take care TJ."

"You too."

TJ hung up the phone and set it on the table next to his bed. Part of him felt a surge of pride for helping her get through her relapse but then the other just felt empty. The house wasn't as lively without her in it. He never fully realized how much her friendship meant until now. I miss her.

TJ went into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge. He opened it and took a swig then put it down on the counter, placing his palms flat on the cool surface. He released a long sigh. What do I do now? I mean last time I was bored like this I started using again but I just can't do that now. Not after seeing Karli relapse. But what can I do?

Glancing across the way, he looked at the piano. A stray ray of sunlight lit it up. Slowly he grabbed his water bottle and made his way over. Sitting at the bench, he lifted the cover and brushed off the slight bit of dust before gently placing his fingers just above the keys. Closing his eyes, TJ pressed down and played the opening of "Let it Be". Smiling to himself, he remembered the day she sang. As he played he realized he hadn't kept up any part of the deal they made that day. Then I guess it's time to start.

And so he played. He played for hours on end, losing all track of time. During the next week, TJ practiced and practiced, getting back into the swing of music. Several times Margaret came to listen and even Agent Clark did at one point. When he wasn't wrapped up in music, TJ still tried getting a hold of Karli but with no success. For the next three weeks, he spent most days fully on music. Gradually he called and visited Karli less and less. He also realized he had other support. He even called Gunner, who was surprised and a bit relieved it wasn't all about her, and with the rest of the group had a game night. From there they went to different places, everyone helping each other when needed. On one of those nights, they took TJ to a piano bar. After a little convincing, they got him up on stage. They were so impressed it became their regular spot.

A week more and a few phone calls later, TJ set up a recital. It was such a big deal he even made up invitations. He gave some to Gunner and the group since they'd all been together so much. I can't believe it, I actually have cheerleaders. With their support, he'd gone from calling Karli everyday to actually living his life and doing it sober. But even so, she still was on his mind. Even with new friends, he wasn't quite ready to believe their friendship was over.

When it came time to address the last invitation he hesitated. Swallowing he wrote 'Karli' before putting it in the envelope. Agent Clark already knew his plan and pulled the car around. The whole ride, TJ's thoughts were a jumble of music and then concern for her. Where has she been? Is she okay? Glancing up at her window when they stopped, he got out of the car. He was about to put it in her mailbox when he stopped. Not wanting to take any chance of it getting lost, instead he went inside. He walked up the familiar staircase and slid it under her door, listening but hearing no sound from the other side. He walked away but looked over his shoulder once more, hoping to see her peek out briefly. Suddenly his phone went off and he saw he got a text from Gunner.

'Bar at 6:30?'

TJ smiled and texted back.

'I'll be there.'

Getting back into the car, Agent Clark looked into the rearview mirror. "Think she'll come?"

He glanced up and sighed, "I have no idea."