It was tiring. Exhausting, really, being Patty’s little secret. Sneaking around after pageants, cuddling up at night and exchanging kisses while masquerading as best friends. It hurt, if you’re being honest, seeing Patty go back to Brick or Christian or whatever guy she was seeing at that time after telling you that she loved you.

You knew it was wrong, but you let her do it. Let her go and kiss her boyfriend and then let her climb into your bed afterwards. You were just as guilty, if not more.

“Hey,” Patty smiles at you as she enters your bedroom. Your mother most likely let her in—she absolutely adored her, raving on about how nice she is and how she’s always been such a good influence on you. “I missed you.”