Feeling it is one thing.
Saying it out loud?
That's the bridge I haven't crossed. I need to start somewhere.
Perhaps, if I share it with my uncle, it’ll make it easier to share it with her?
I square my shoulders. "I miss her." I blow out a breath. There, that wasn’t so bad, was it? "I wish she were here with me. It’s not the same without her."
Tristan stares at me.
"What?"
"You do love her."
"I do." I swallow around the emotions which press down on my throat. "I lo…" I take a deep breath. "I love her."
There, I said it. And even though my heart is pounding in my chest, I'm okay.
"Have you told her?"
I shake my head.
"Why not?"
"I don't know."
"You’re not one to shy away from challenges. You qualified as a Marine. Then pivoted to become a very successful chef. Why not bring some of that mojo into your personal life?"
I purse my lips. "You telling me I’ve been acting like a coward?"
He throws his hands out in front of him.
"You said it, not me." He looks me up and down. "You’re unhappy without her. You look like you’re going to have a breakdown. Wouldn’t you be better off telling her how you feel than keeping it all locked up inside?”
I rub the back of my neck. "But… What if… What if she's changed her mind?"
He scowls at me like I just told him I don't know how to make a roux.
"I mean… What if she realized, she doesn't love me anymore?"
He remains silent, disbelief on his features.
I shift my weight. "I guess, it's only been a few days…"
"And?"
"So, it's unlikely she changed her mind. She seemed sure of herself."
He nods. "And?"
I hesitate. "If I don't take a chance and tell her, I'll always wonder what could have been."
"And are you happier with her or without her?"
"I'm miserable without her.” I work my jaw from side to side.
A small smile curves his lips. "Would you rather be safe and miserable, or brave and admit how you feel?”
