“It sounds reasonable, because you know I’m right and I would only tell you the truth.”
Rob smiled again and even laughed a bit. “Fair enough. I love you, you know. I can’t even think of what my life would be without you in it.”
“I love you too, silly. Even if you act like an idiot every now and then and let your mind take you to all the wrong places. And it goes both ways, Rob. I can’t imagine my life without you, either.”
They chatted a bit more and Rob felt his chest relax and his breathing ease. Yes, he still loved Alan and he missed him terribly, but Sam was right, that didn’t mean he didn’t deserve happiness, that he didn’t deserve someone else.
“So, what do I do now, Sam? I mean, I blew him off this morning. And not in a good way.”
Sam snorted. “Behave!” There was a smile in her voice. “First, take a shower and shave, ’cause really Rob, you still look awful. Then get dressed. You’ll feel better. Next, call Ben and apologize like hell, but be honest. Tell him you want to see him and when he agrees, go see him and explain what happened this morning. And tell him how it fucked with your head and you kinda went over the edge for a bit.”
“You’re right. That’s exactly what I need to do. But what if he doesn’t want to see me?”
“Of course I’m right. You’ve met me, remember?” Sam giggled. “And yes, he’ll agree to see you. Based on what you’ve told me about the time you two have spent together, it sounds like he’s very interested in you and I can tell that you’re crazy about him already.” She looked at him and smirked. “Trust me.”
“I do. And thank you for being there for me, Sam. I owe you. Again.”
He thought back to how she had been there when Alan died. She’d spent two weeks in his guest room, taking care of him when he was so lost and helpless.
Sam grinned, “Damn right you owe me! But don’t worry, you’ll buy me lots of drinks and meals on the ship. Lots and lots of drinks.”
Rob laughed, and felt a lightness in his chest. He realized he was feeling so much better and, so long as Ben gave him time to explain, things would be okay.
“I love you Sam. I’ll see you in about six days.”
“I love you too, Robbie.” She hardly ever called him Robbie, but she knew it would make him feel loved. “Remember, I’m here for you any time of the day or night. Call me again if you need to.”
“I think it’s gonna be okay, but thanks. I’ll see you soon.”
