I’m silent, thinking over what she’s said. It sounds like she’s been dating Andrew this whole time, knowing that she really wanted me. And I’ve been stupidly trying to forget her, thinking I’d never be able to be with her.
“I want you to be with me.” I confess. “What do I need to do? I don’t want to run away anymore, Denise. I love you. And I think you love me too.”
She’s crying now and I just want to go to her.
“I can’t love you, Ryder. I need to make it work with Andrew. I’m sorry.”
All the air rushes from my lungs as she hangs up the phone. She’s still going to try with Andrew.
I fucked up everything.
I walk over to the freezer and get the bottle of vodka. Probably not the healthiest coping mechanism, but it’s going to have to do.
