I nod, pensive. Is that how I am with Zach? Do I build him up where he lacks? I guess I do. He doesn’t have a job, but I do.
Is that what she means?
“It’s about being partners,” she says, drawing me from my thoughts. “We’ve said this many times before—the idea of divorce never enters our minds. We will work through our problems—together—no matter how much work it takes. Because we’re committed to each other. And that means compromise. Sometimes I have to back down on something I feel strongly about, and sometimes it’s him. But we know we can rely on each other no matter what, and that we’ll always support each other in the end.”
I swallow hard, taking in her words. The only compromise I remember Zach making in recent history was letting me choose the restaurant for dinner, as long as it had big enough TV screens for the game.
But the description Shawna is giving sounds more like my relationship with Ryan. Someone who builds me up when I’m down, who’s always there to support me, no matter what. Who fills in the spaces where I lack.
Shoot.
“You look likeyouneed a friend,” Shawna says gently.
I realize I probably look like a deer in headlights as I’m processing her words. I shake my head lightly and grin at her. “Sorry. Lost in thought.”
“Don’t apologize,” she says with a smile, which makes me return it.
“Yeah, well. I’ve just been…thinking lately.”
“Oh, really?” She leans in. “Want to share?”
Do I want to share? Yes, I absolutely do. I feel the weight of my situation bearing down on me, and I need someone to talk to. But just then, little Caleb rushes into the room. “Mommy, I don’t feel so good.”
“What’s wrong?” She puts her hand up to his forehead, and her eyes widen. “Oh, no. Joshua!”
Joshua comes back from the kitchen with her cup of water. “What’s up?”
“Can you take his temperature? I think he’s got a fever.”
Joshua groans. “Are you kidding me? They were just sick two weeks ago!”
“I know, I know.” Shawna smiles up at him. “But that’s the way it is with kids, right?”
Joshua groans again and disappears to find a thermometer, Caleb trailing behind him.
“That’s what I mean,” Shawna says softly. “About being a partnership. Joshuahateswhen the kids get sick. It stresses him out beyond belief. And for some reason, I usually stay calm about it. So together, we make a good pair.”
I laugh. “Yeah, I guess that works out.” I check my phone and stand. “I should probably go, though. I’ve already stayed too long and you’ve got your hands full.”
“No worries,” she says. “I hope you don’t mind showing yourself out. I’m finally comfortable on the couch.”
“Of course.” I lean down and give her a quick hug. “Thank you for letting me come see baby Nora. I hope you guys enjoy dinner.”
“Thank you so much for that. I’m sure it’ll be delicious.” She grimaces. “And I hope Caleb didn’t get you sick.”
“Oh, I’m sure I’ll be fine,” I say.
Famous last words.
Because two days later, I’m sick with the worst fever I’ve had in years.
CHAPTER 27
Ryan
On the way towork on Monday morning, our first day back from spring break, I stop at the coffee shop to get Claire’s favorite—a hot latte with two pumps of hazelnut syrup and two pumps of white chocolate sauce. She might have already gotten one for herself, but even if she did, I figure I’ll drink it. It’s all about the small gestures these days. This morning I’ll have a little face time with her, then this afternoon we’ll work more on the tutoring center. It’s the perfect way to keep spending time with her, even though we haven’t spoken much since her moving day.
I walk in through the doors of the office at eight thirty and wave at Grace and Betsy. Now that Claire said Grace was making “come hither” eyes at me, I’m extra careful to avoid anything that could be perceived as flirting. “Good morning, ladies,” I call.
