A version of this story was published first on CBC Books Canada Writes.
“It’s worse that this stupid window is here. If we could just open these fucking doors we could hop right out. I mean, the ground is right there.”
“Yep.”
“Look, we’re so close. How can it take so long when we’re so close.”
“It’s only been ten minutes.”
“Yeah, that’s a long time. We’ve only got one more hour until the sale is over. I really want those new shoes and there’s only one pair left. I had to beg that annoying sales bitch to put them on hold for me.”
“Wow.” Sara hates the mall, she only agreed to come because Chelsea said she’d buy her a Yogen Früz. She should have said no, but Sara always goes along with Chelsea.
“I knew we should have gone straight to Aldo,” says Chelsea.
“It’s just a pair of shoes.” Sara shocks herself. She’d meant to keep that outburst to herself, like always.
“Just a pair of shoes? Just a pair of shoes? They’re only the best, most comfortable, perfect pair to go with my new boyfriend jeans. I mean, you don’t come across the perfect pair of shoes every day.”
“Seems like you do.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Nothing. Forget I said anything.”
“Jesus, Sara, you’re being such a cunt.”
“You’re the one who had to take the elevator even though the stairs were right in front of us.”
“If you hadn’t insisted on getting your stupid Yogen Früz we wouldn’t be in this mess. I mean who needs four different flavours? It’s not normal and you’re getting kinda fat.”
“I’m so sick of you.”
Sara wishes she could take it back. Even more, she wishes she could capture the stunned look on Chelsea’s face. As if she just shit her pants and is trying to figure out how to hide it.
“That is so hurtful.”
“Sorry.” Sara, holding back her tears, still seems sincere.
“You know, not everyone can be as smart as you.”
“I said, I’m sorry.”
“You’ve changed, Sara. You used to be so nice. I’m not sure how much longer I can live with you when you act like this. We’re roomies, we’re supposed to have fun together. You’re always reading. What am I supposed to do when you’re reading.”
“There’s always online shopping.”
“Oh my God, I know. Urban Outfitters is having a sale this week, free shipping to Canada. Can you believe it?”
“Not one bit.”