I take a deep breath and exhale. I'm finally here. I've made it to Sam's apartment. And it only took me the entire night. I knock on the door and rock on my heels in excitement. This is gonna be so awesome!

The door opens and Sam peers between the door and the frame. There's a chain keeping the door from opening all the way. "What do you want?" he grunts.

"It's me. Nathan."

His eyes widen and close the door to slide the chain off the door. "Nathan? What are you doing here? I thought you would still be with that old fart."

"Well, I was, but we... had an argument."

"Aw. I'm sorry, bud. You okay?"

"Yeah, I'm good. Can I come in? I kind of drove all night to get here."

"Come in, little brother. Kick up your feet, take a load off. Mi casa es tu casa."

"Gracias, señor," I laugh, dropping onto the worn leather couch. "Uh, I don't mean to be a bother, but do you happen to have breakfast? I haven't eaten anything since that donut a few hours ago."

"Of course I have food. It's all laid out on the table already."

"Sweet!" I peel myself off the couch and make my way to the kitchen. "Sully always says I'm like a bottomless - what the hell?" I jump at the unexpected sight of a young woman. A beautiful, young woman.

"Oh, where are my manners? This is Vanessa." She runs a hand down his chest as he introduces her. "Vanessa, this is my little brother, Nathan."

She smiles, already donning makeup at 8:00 in the morning. "Well, aren't you a cutie."

I blush and duck my head like a little kid. Despite Sully's efforts, I'm still horribly awkward around women. My gaze darkens at the thought of my former mentor. Why can't I get him out of my head?

I refocus my attention on my brother and his... friend. "I'll see you tonight?" she asks.

"If I make it back in time."

Vanessa rolls her eyes. "Whatever, Sam." She grabs her bag and stalks out the door, slamming it behind her.

Sam doesn't even flinch. "She'll be back," he says to address the look I'm giving him.

"Uh-huh."

He drains his coffee mug and proclaims, "I'm going to change for the day. I'll be right back."

And I'm alone. I munch on a piece of buttered toast at the kitchen table, head resting on my hand. Who knew driving all night would be so exhausting?

Sam bustles back into the room. "Do you see my keys anywhere?"

I open my mouth to answer, but he interrupts. "Never mind. I found them. Have a good day, champ."

"Wait, what? You're going out?"

"Yeah, I've got a job. I'm already late."

"But..."

"You can take care of yourself, right?"

"Well, yeah, but..."

"Good! I'll be back at around six. See ya."

And I'm alone. Again. I guess it gives me time to catch up on my sleep. I shake my head to get rid of the shadows of doubt in my mind. Sam will be back. I'm sure if it.