“Fine! I’ll text him.”
I pull out my phone.
Elinor
Do you have a girlfriend?
We watch the three dots ripple. He’s typing, but it’s taking longer than it should for a simple no. My mom and I watch the phone, breathless.
Finally an answer appears.
Edward
Not officially
“Not officially?!” I exclaim. Maddening man. What does that even mean?
Edward
I was sort of seeing someone, but I’m planning to end it
My whole body tenses at the sharp sting of disappointment.
Elinor
Don’t do it for my sake
“Elinor!” My mom says. “That’s not very friendly. Give the guy a chance.”
“I’ve given him more chances than I should have. I don’t even know what I was thinking, entertaining the possibility of dating him. There are so many reasons against it. I’m sorry, Mom, but we’re going to have to leave Bumble Cottage.”
“I know,” she says. “I’ve been thinking about that. I just don’t want to.” Her voice cracks. “We have so many happy memories here.” Her shoulders shake. I wrap my arms around her, and she lets out a sob. Her sadness cuts through me. I wish I could weep with my mother and let out all this pain choking my heart. Dry-eyed and despairing, I hold her while she cries all the tears I’m too heartsick to shed.
Marianne, who was always eager to promote their happiness...left them to themselves. —Sense and Sensibility
23
Elinor
I stare at Edward’s text for a long time.
Edward
I’m visiting Norland Park this weekend. Any chance we could meet up for nachos?
It arrived late yesterday afternoon, more than a week after our last text exchange. I’m ashamed to admit that my immediate response upon seeing his message was sheer joy—Edward texted me! He’s coming to Norland Park!
Then I remembered all the reasons I’m angry at Mr. Frechette, followed by all the reasons we shouldn’t date.
I haven’t answered his text because I have no idea what to say.
Do I want to see him?
YES!
No!
Maybe?
