Page 66 of Love You Madly

They both exchange glances, and I know they get it. Matt is familiar, but the past is messy. Taylor leans back, sipping her wine. “You need to be sure, Callie. Old flames burn the hottest, but they can also burn you out.”

I nod, but the uncertainty gnaws at me.

Despite having rekindled feelings for Matt, I’ve continued to talk to Owen almost every day. Our conversations have shifted, becoming more about supporting each other and even offering dating advice. It’s been nice, but there is an underlying tension I can’t ignore. I often find myself smiling at my phone, waiting for his next message, even though I know this is all a bit complicated.

As I sit on my couch Sunday evening with a cup of tea, my phone buzzes with a message from Owen.

Owen:

Hey, Callie. Need some advice. Second date with Karissa on Thursday night didn’t go well.

Me:

Oh no! What happened?

Owen:

She got really jealous. Found out I once took the bartender, Heather, on a date. Heather’s with my brother Luke now, but Karissa couldn’t let it go.

Me:

That’s tough. Jealousy can be a real turnoff.

Good thing this entire situation doesn’t make me remotely jealous at all…

Owen:

It definitely was. Made me rethink things with her.

Me:

I’m sure the alcohol was flowing and probably didn’t help the situation. Have you talked to her since your date on Thursday?

Owen:

Yeah, we have but it’s been awkward.

Me:

Have you talked to her specifically about the jealousy stuff? Is that a dealbreaker for you?

Owen:

It’s not a dealbreaker but I definitely need to talk to her about it. It’s unfortunate because she’s really nice aside from that. I just don’t know if I want to deal with the drama.

Me:

I don’t blame you. That’s tough.

Owen:

Sorry for dumping on you, I just needed to run it by an objective third-party.

Me:

Of course. That’s what friends are for, right?

Ugh.Sometimes calling myself his friend feels like an insult.

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