I watch her, this woman who walked into my life a week ago representing everything I thought I'd escaped, and realize she's everything I've been missing.
The structure to my spontaneity. The intensity to my ease. The plan to my see-what-happens attitude.
We balance each other.
"You've got it bad," Matthew mutters under his breath.
"Completely," I agree.
"Never thought I'd see the day. The Ice Queen melts you in a week."
"Don't call her that."
"You called her that first."
"And I was an idiot." I look at him seriously. "She's the bravest person I know. Do you have any idea how much courage it takes to throw away your entire life plan?"
"For you? Probably a lot."
"Exactly. So show some respect."
Matthew grins. "You're gone, man. Totally gone."
It is. Terrifying and beautiful and everything I didn't know I wanted.
Avery's deep in conversation with Maggie about office space on Main Street when her phone rings. She glances at the screen and winces.
"My parents. I should—"
"Take it," I say. "I'll be right here."
She kisses my cheek and steps outside. Through the window, I watch her pace, and even from here I can see the tension in her shoulders.
"That's going to be a fun conversation," Matthew observes.
"Why?"
"She's a lawyer from a big city. I'm guessing her parents have opinions about her throwing away her career for a mountain town."
Shit. He's right.
Fifteen minutes later, Avery comes back inside, and her face is blank. Professional mask back in place.
"Everything okay?" I ask as she slides back into the booth.
"Fine. My mother wanted to discuss an upcoming family event." Her voice is very controlled. "She was surprised to hear I'm planning to relocate."
"Surprised?"
"Among other things." She forces a smile. "It's fine. Really."
But it's not fine. I can see her rebuilding walls, brick by brick, in real time.
"Avery—"
"I'm tired. It's been a long day. I should head back to the resort."
She's pulling away. I can feel it happening, and panic claws at my chest.
