Page 79 of Rainstorm

“The position they’ve offered me is in San Diego,” I said, before taking a swig of the red wine we’d ordered, which suddenly tasted flat and dull.

“San Diego? Like in California?” she asked, clasping her hands to her chest.

“Yes, two hours away to the south. I didn’t accept straight away, I asked them to give me until Monday to make my decision. But I’ve already made it.”

“You’re going to say yes, right?” Her brows furrowed in a sweet way that was part puzzled part intrigued.

I looked her in the eye, certain my decision would be best for both of us, for our future.

“On the contrary. On Monday, I’ll be telling Mr. Diaz that I won’t be accepting the offer, and if that means they decide to let me go, it won’t be the end of the world. I’m already in contact with a headhunter, and there are plenty of other openings. So don’t worry, we’ll be fine, plus I’ve got some savings in my bank account.” And some smart investments too.

She looked at me as if all the air had escaped from her body.

Open-mouthed.

Stunned.

“Could you please explain to me exactly why you’re turning this amazing opportunity down?” Her voice sounded pretty indignant, angry even.

“Roselynn, work is replaceable. Our relationship is not. San Diego is too far away. You are here. Your work is here. So I’m not moving. I’m staying here with you.”

“Oh no,” she immediately countered. “I think you’re making a big mistake, Chase. This is a really great opportunity, and the last thing I want is to be responsible for you turning it down and then later regretting it, which would inevitably lead to resentment between us. Whether you accept or reject the offer should only be about whether you actually want this job or not, and not be influenced by me. I would never force you to do anything you didn’t want to do.”

What a woman. So selfless and undemanding.

My hand sought out hers on the table.

My skin missed the connection between us.

My being needed to connect with her again.

Although that simple touch was not enough, it would have to suffice until we returned to the privacy of our home.

“Rose, I’ve made my decision, and you haven’t forced me to do anything. I was determined to do this before I even told you about it.”

My father’s words about putting the needs of those you love first had been an omen, every word seared into my mind.

They could not have come at a better time. I really needed that guidance.

“Well then, first thing on Monday, you’re going to call your boss and you’re going to tell him that you accept.” Her voice was firm, her sweet innocent appearance hiding a strong and fierce goddess who knew her own mind.

“But if I do accept, what will become of us?” I demanded. That was the most important thing for me, to protect our relationship.

“As you said before, San Diego is only a couple of hours away, so you’ll become a good friend of the freeway 5. Plus, we’re going to change that old flip phone of yours.”

The determination shone in her eyes.

She was the love of my life, of that there was no doubt.

Her love was real, it was born of her soul, igniting her body and mine on fire.

She was so good for me, perfection in fact.

She fascinated me.

Bewitched me.

I was totally in love with her. That’s how she had me.

---