He shakes his head slightly. “No. I really like you.”
My chest aches.
He looks down at his hands.
“I can’t be married,” he says.
The words hit like ice water.
He exhales sharply. “What I mean is… I can’t be married married.”
I stay very still.
“I don’t want kids,” he continues quietly. “I don’t want someone depending on me like that.”
My throat tightens.
He looks up at me again, eyes clear and open in a way they never are when he’s sober.
“I would fail,” he says simply.
I don’t comment, but finish unbuttoning his shirt.
I help him lie back on the bed and he’s asleep within seconds.
19
JAKE
To the Happy Couple
Iwake to sunlight and the slow realization that my mouth probably committed crimes last night.
The hotel room is quiet except for the low hum of the AC. Curtains half drawn. A thin stripe of morning light cuts across the bed.
Talia lies right beside me.
On her side, facing me. Her hair a soft mess across the pillow. Freckles scattered over her nose like someone placed them there with careful intent. Her lips are slightly parted in sleep.
She looks… peaceful.
I stare at her a second too long.
Then the memories start coming back.
Her tucking me in.
Her hands, soft against my skin.
Gentle. Careful.
After that—nothing.
I must have been out cold.
I should be embarrassed.
I am embarrassed.
