Funny Story

by Emily Henry

“Miles.” I close my eyes, rubbing my heels against the sockets as I organize my thoughts. “I don’t need a better apology present.” My hands fall to my lap. “This is my fault.” He balks. “What? No, it’s definitely not.” “You did exactly what I should’ve expected,” I say. He jerks back, as if I slapped him. “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?” “I’m not trying to be hurtful,” I say quickly. “I’m saying you’re off the hook.” “Off what hook, Daphne?” he demands. “You told me you don’t do expectations or obligations,” I say. “I said they make me panic,” Miles replies, sounding vaguely panicked now too. I turn in my seat, the windshield wipers still squeaking against the glass, rain pattering the roof. “And you did panic. Even though you didn’t want to. And I did expect something, even though I tried not to.” “Good!” he half shouts. “Expect something! You want to put me on a hook? Put me on the hook. I freaked out, Daphne, but that doesn’t mean I don’t love you.”