it was almost the end of November, meaning that today was thanksgiving...and even closer to jacks return. well- hopeful return.

"happpppy thanksgiving!" rian said, walking through the front door, holding a plate and standing next to his mother and father.

"hi mrs merrick!" i said, as we hugged.

"hello stella!" she said, smiling.

zack and his mom and dad walked in too, and we all sat at the table.

i sat between rian and alex.

i flattened out my skirt and we all gave thanks and all that then began to eat.

it wasn't the same though.

i know i never really was there last thanksgiving, but all of us trying to be funny and crack jokes? not the same without jack.

it was over and the guys and i were laying on the couch, looking up at the ceiling.

"i'm so fulllll" rian said.

"so am i" i groaned.

"we ate so much" zack said, laughing slightly.

"yeeeeeah" alex said.

all the adults were outside on the patio, enjoying the cool breeze and drinking.

"i miss jack" zack said, a little while afterwards.

"so do i" alex said.

"guys can i tell you the truth" i said, my eyes looking up at the ceiling.

"spiilllll" rian said, dragging out the L.

"i really like jack. i have a huge crush on him. first boy i've ever liked in that way. there" i said.

"well i think he really liked you too" alex said, smiling.

"yeah i hope" i said.

"i'm gonna fall asleeeep" rian said, as the doorbell rang, making as all groan in unison.

"who could that possibly be?" zack said, getting up.

we all stood up, brushing the hair out of our faces and straightening ourselves out, as we walked over to the door.

alex opened it.

and there he was.

Jack.