He said it out loud. He loved Rory, and now Sarah knew. She deserved to know. She’d done so much to help him find love, and wanted what was best for him. Knowing he loved Rory would help her understand why he rejected all other men.
“They were both horrible people. You know Rory is nothing like them. He’s a kind, caring man. He is just struggling right now.”
“I know.” Tears formed in his eyes. “That’s why I’ve been pushing everyone away. I can’t find someone like him. I want him.”
Sarah wrapped her arms around him.
“I know you love him. I can see it. Just be patient. I know one day he’ll realize his love for you and tell you.”
“I hope you’re right.”
“Dry your tears and let’s get some lunch.”
Bernard was grateful Kelly brought toilet paper. He blew his nose, washed his face, and headed into the living room.
They sat around the table John and Kelly assembled to eat pizza and drink soda. Mai turned out to be a talented woman. She played the cello, had written a book about how to succeed in a male-dominated world, and studied ballet.
“That’s an impressive list of talents,” Bernard said.
“Thank you,” she said.
“I have her book,” Sarah said. “It’s helped a lot in the workforce. Men don’t try to hit on me anymore in the breakroom.”
“Was that an issue?” Bernard asked.
“Oh yeah, constantly.”
“You never said anything to me.”
“Because I know you’d confront them, and I didn’t want to deal with that.”
She was right. Bernard wouldn’t let rude behavior go by without saying something. No one had the right to make others feel inferior.
“So, Kelly.” Bernard turned to him. “I’m only three blocks away. We should plan some doggie play dates or walks. It’d be nice to walk with someone.”
“That sounds great,” Kelly said. “Chester and I could use the exercise. What time do you usually go out?”
“I get home around six after dropping Sarah off. So, I go out around six-thirty. Then head home for dinner.”
“Sounds great. I tend to finish around six. So, that’d be perfect timing.”
They made plans to meet Monday at the nearby dog park.
Bernard caught Rory’s eye while they talked. He didn’t say much during lunch.
Does he think I’m interested in Kelly and that’s why I want to go for a walk with him? Is this going to make him jealous?They’d still have their afternoons in the park on Saturday. They were still friends. This wouldn’t change anything. Or would it?
They finished unpacking the trucks and moved everything to the rooms designated on the boxes.
“I have to get ready for church.” Rory looked at his watch. “Do you need help tomorrow?”
“I’ll be unpacking tomorrow,” Kelly said. “I’d be happy to have you all over again.”
“Count me in,” Bernard said. “I’m going to get Rory back to his car and then take care of a few things. What time would you like us here?”
“Noon should be fine.”
“I can get here around two after lunch with my family,” Rory said.
