Page 31 of Magnetic God

He didn’t text.

He didn’t call.

Why is he avoiding me? Is it because it’s true? Has he even heard the message I sent? Unease creeps through me. Did something happen to him? Every scenario runs through my mind until I finally decide to text him.

Kitten

Brooks, please let me know you’re okay.

I’m worried.

Three dots appear right away. My chest is tight as I wait to see what he says.

I’m fine.

Did you get my voice message?

Hannah, this really isn’t a good time.

Tears prickle my eyes.

Just answer me one thing. Are you married or was the story on TV a mistake?

Please. I just…I need to know.

I stare at my phone for ten minutes, willing him to answer. Finally, three dots appear.

I’m sorry, Hannah. The story is true. I’m married.

But you told me you were divorced!

We’ve been separated for years and were in the process of getting divorced.

Hurt spears me, making my head throb, which goes great with the pain from the concussion.

Brooks is married.

He lied to me.

Looking down at my phone, one thing stands out. Were. They were in the process of getting divorced.

And where do you stand now?

We’ve… reconciled.

Were you going to tell me?

Yes, I was going to tell you. Believe me when I say this decision wasn’t made lightly.

Did you know the story was going to air?

I didn’t know until it was too late.

But he didn’t let me know.

I’m so fucking sorry. I wish there was something I could do to make this right, but my hands are tied.

I want to be selfish and ask if it’s okay if we still keep in touch…

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