“Not yet. She knows that I have feelings for Denise but I haven’t talked to her about today. You think I should?”
“I think you should talk to Alex, and stay away from Denise for a bit. She just dumped a loser who she thought she’d be with for a while. She needs to be on her own a little before she can even think about someone else.”
“Fuck Pops, you’re killing me.” I know he’s right, but I don’t want to wait. I had a tiny taste of what being with Denise could be like and I don’t think I’ll be able to give it up without feeling like absolute shit about it.
“Listen, what you do is up to you, but let me tell you one thing. If this girl means to you what I think she does, a few months of waiting won’t change anything. You said you’ve been waiting years already, what’s a bit longer when it comes to love?” Pops looks to the side of his desk, where an old photograph of a beautiful young woman sits, and he takes a deep breath. “Love doesn’t just go away, no matter how long you wait.”
We sit quietly for a few minutes. He’s right, of course. I know he’s never loved anyone other than his wife, even though it’s been years since she died. And Connor and Alex didn’t even see each other for twenty years, and they still loved each other when they met again. If Denise and I are meant to be, then waiting a little longer won’t make a difference.
“You’re right again, Pops,” I say, startling him out of his thoughts. “But I’m sure you know that already.” I smile at him as I stand up. “But I’d better be going now if I want to make it to all of those wild Monday night parties.” I give him a little wink at that last bit, making him chuckle.
“Alright you little shit, get out of here. Come back and see me when you’re ready to concentrate on your workout.”
“Sounds good, Pops. Thanks for the chat.” I wave as I leave his office and head down the stairs. Despite what I said, I have no intention of hitting any parties tonight; I head straight home instead. I sat around with Pops for so long that it’s nearing 11:00. That’s a lot earlier than I would normally attempt to sleep but I figure if I want to make a go of this ‘getting my shit together’ thing that’s as good a place to start as any. The early bird gets the worm and all that shit, right?
