“The thing is, Anna, sometimes walking away is the bravest thing you can do. And I know this feels like the end of everything right now, but the world will open up for you in ways you can’t even imagine yet.”
I take her hand and squeeze it. “Everything that’s meant to be will find its way to you. And when the time is right—with the right person, or even on your own—you’re going to be the most incredible mother. I know it.”
She lets out a shaky breath, and I continue. “You and Mason had something beautiful for a long time. You’re allowed to grieve that—and you will. But don’t let yourself grieve a future you’ve not had the chance to live. You’ve got to take this life and turn it into something worth living. Something that brings you meaning and happiness and everything you’ve dreamt of.”
She wipes her nose with the tissue. “What if I’m too old? I’m mid-thirties, Max. What if it’s too late?”
“Fuck societal expectations, Anna, they’ve never stopped you before. It’s not too late. And if you don’t happen to meet someone, then I know you can do it on your own. You’re so much stronger than you give yourself credit for.” My voice is firm. “Youhavetime. Take it. Live well,” I say.
She gives me a small, sad smile. “He’s moving out. He won’t be home when I return tomorrow morning. He’s going to stay with his family until we finalize things,” she says.
I rub a soothing circle over her back. “What do you need? Is there anything I can do to help?”
She shakes her head. “Not right now.” Her gaze darts to the windows. “I didn’t mean to walk in on you two,” she says. “I didn’t even knock. I just… I used my key.”
I nod slowly. “You don’t have to apologize.”
She swallows and her eyes drop to the mug in front of her. “I needed you.”
“And we’re here, weasel. That doesn’t change a thing,” I tell her.
She sits back, putting some distance between us. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Would timing have made a difference?”
She tenses. “No.”
“And now?” I force the question as my whole body locks up, prepared for her answer.
“I’m pissed at you, Max. Both of you.” Her voice hardens.
“So that’s it? Your own marriage falls apart so I can’t be happy? Your best friend can’t be happy?”
Anna watches me carefully. “That’s not fair. You lied to me.”
“And we’re sorry. What more do you want from us?”
“Us?” she asks incredulously. “US? So, what? You’re a couple now?”
I grind my teeth. “I’m in love with her, Anna. I love Gemma.”
She freezes. Whatever retort she was preparing dies on her lips. For several beats, she just stares at me.
“You what?” she finally whispers.
“I fucking love her,” I say, pushing my hair off my forehead.
She shakes her head dismissively. “You’ve been back for eight weeks, Max. You don’t love her. Sometimes lust justfeelsa lot like love.”
Her condescension strikes a match and ignites something fierce in me.
I adore my sister, but who the hell is she to tell me how I feel?
“Don’t sit here and minimize what she means to me.”
“Gemma doesn’t love,” she says flatly.
“Is it really that hard for you to believe?” I lean forward. “That we aren’t capable or deserving of each other’s love? Because you selfishly want it all for yourself?”
