When he got home he couldn't to any of the usual things he would do. He was jittery. When trying to look at a screen he felt like puking. The only thing he could do was close his eyes and sit there. Eventually he laid down. He didn't fall asleep but he felt peaceful in the darkness.

Jack had gone over to Aaron's. He would spend the night there for a few nights. No plans afterwards. Alan was fine with that. He himself was planning to head back to 

Westcity

anyways the following day. Initially he had planned on returning this day. But it didn't feel right. Too early. Wanted to hang out with 

Imogen Howe

, Ashley, Jack, and yes even Aaron a little more. Leaving today wouldn't feel right.

In fact. He was considering not leaving the day after either. Maybe stay three more nights. He had thought about it. Imagined telling his mom. She would be happy he thought. What had Imogen gotten for him at the cafe? He should be applying for jobs. But he was too distracted and excited about all that was going on here to do that.

These thoughts and feelings repeated for another fifteen minutes until he heard the shut of a car door. His mom was back. He knew that she would be carrying a cup of peppermint tea. With milk.