"So, tell me more about this marina deal," I said, wanting to prolong the night.
"I haven't figured anything out yet," Cal replied. "I just know in my gut this is the right thing to do. I want us to be independent again. Financially and emotionally."
"Money always comes with strings."
"Yeah. And family money more than most."
I drew circles on his palm. "Will you leaving the company be an issue?"
"Dad won't be happy. Mom will likely have things to say but no. There are immensely talented people who can step straight in. If anything, my leaving is a good thing."
"Will you miss this house?"
Cal didn't answer right away, his gaze distant as he considered my question. "Not for the traditional reasons. Not because it holds good memories. But I'll miss this view."
Even I had to admit that we'd be hard-pressed to find a view quite this good.
"But a view doesn't make up for years of emptiness. I want our next house to be filled with memories like tonight."
"What, having sex on the rug?" I asked, amused.
"Yeah. But also being together and joking. Of dinners and painting and all the things I wish we'd had before."
I stopped tracing his palm and instead pressed mine to his. "Today was a good memory."
"Mm," he agreed. “The best."
"How quickly could they put it on the market?"
"Tomorrow, if I ask."
I nodded. "Then let's do it."
"You sure?"
"Completely." I glanced around. "This house will be perfect for someone. It's just that someone isn't us."
Cal laughed; the sound surprised.
"Well, fuck,” he muttered, squeezing my hand. "Guess we're doing this."
"Hundred percent."
9
Calvin
Isigned the papers, then handed them over to Emily, exchanging a grin with her as we did.
"And that's it." The real estate agent stood, holding out a hand to me. "Congratulations."
I shook his hand, then watched him offer the same to Emily, feeling freer than I had in years.
"It's really done?" Emily clarified. It was early April, and she wore a light dress pink dress paired with a purple denim jacket and brown heels.
"It's really done,” The agent confirmed, giving us both a nod.
"It's done," Emily whispered, looking up at me, her face aglow.
