"It's amazing how much things can change in such a short period of time," John agreed with her, "or not change over long periods of time."
His laughter continued as she told him about her mom. "Are you sure it's only 10 percent caffeine? From what I've seen of you, I'd guess closer to 25 percent!" he teased, his blue eyes shining. It'd been a long time since he'd been around someone he could just tease and enjoy being with, besides Mattie of course.
"She's probably worrying about you, I bet," John sobered, finally putting voice to Rory's unspoken worries, his eyes drawn back to the phone in his hand. He turned it over a couple of time in his hand, the dull hum of the dial tone almost daring him to dial.
He debated a few moments longer, Rory's hesitation to use it echoing in the back of his mind. It would be nice to let his brother know he was stuck for the night, but it wasn't quite worth the risk of using the questionable device. Finally making up his mind, he placed the phone back on the cradle, turning away from it to pick up the pie he had set aside.
By the time he turned back to the wall, the phone had disappeared. "Rory?" he asked, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. "Am I hallucinating?"