Don’t even get me started on your voice. It’s the loveliest thing I’ve ever heard. Soft. Raspy. Better than anything I’ve ever dreamed of. And I have dreamed of you. So often. You have no idea. —Liam
It pains me to know I might not ever hear it again. That you might never give me a chance to make things right. —Liam
That’s the last text message.
However, I realize Liam called me late last night, but I missed it.
He left a voicemail.
I hold my breath and play it.
Then I listen to it again, and again, and again.
“Hey, Bel. It’s Liam. I…I was hoping wecould talk and you’d give me the opportunity toexplain some things. I miss you and would love tohear from you soon, babe.”
His deep voice, laced with yearning and sadness, tugs at my heartstrings.
The layer of ice covering my heart slowly starts to thaw. Finally, I see the silver lining. No matter what’s been said and done, there is hope for Liam and me.
He’s ready to explain things and now it’s my turn to meet him halfway.
Mabel
Saturday late afternoon, I finish wrapping up another successful lingerie photoshoot with a group of models. Every time I step into the studio, I’m gripped with a wave of gratitude and excitement that I get to do something I love with a team of talented individuals.
The girls want to go out for drinks atLa Flamme, but I already made plans with Kennedy last night for a nice meal and movie.
Speaking of my best friend, she’s supposed to come pick me up soon.
When I change into my royal blue minidress and strappy white heels, I power on my phone and see a missed message from Kennedy.
May, I hate to do this, but I have to cancel. My grandma is feeling sick so I’m driving to her place with my mom. Can we reschedule? I’m so, so sorry. —Ken
I send back a text as I grab my bag and usher out of the studio.
Nothing to apologize for, Ken! Send my love to your grandma. I hope she’s doing okay <3 Give me an update when you can. xo —May
Unfortunately, I don’t have my car with me since Kennedy was my ride. I can’t call my parents either, since they’ve booked a romantic getaway at a spa on the outskirts of the city.
Technically, I can call an Uber.
When I step out into the busy downtown street, an odd sense of loneliness grapples my insides. A result of being alone on a gorgeous fall afternoon. I wrap my trench coat around my frame tighter like a shield. Close by, a musician strums an Ed Sheeran song that spikes my nostalgia. Seeing the bustling faces of passersby as they go about their lives makes me feel out of place.
I stand against a brick wall, fixed in a moving crowd.
Ironically enough, my disposition mirrors my inner turmoil.
All I want at this moment is a sense of comfort.
There’s only one person who can give that to me.
Only person I want with me, right here, right now.
Before I can convince myself otherwise, I text Liam. I hadn’t replied to him last night because I wanted a clear head to focus on my work today. Now the cobwebs clouding my mind have dispersed and it’s clear I’ve let this separation stretch between us for longer than necessary.
Hey, Liam…I need a big favour. —Bel
Anything. —Liam
