Page 37 of Yours to Conquer

“Started drinking early today?” I question teasingly.

“Just a diet soda. Do you want to fly down here and stay a few days?” I can hear the longing in his voice.

“I can’t. You put me in charge of this silly prom, and I’m swamped. I didn’t work all day today because of the interview and my appointment. I feel like I’m behind.”

“I’m disappointed, but I understand. How did your appointment go?”

Should I tell him I might be pregnant? In a split-second decision, I choose to wait until I know for sure. He has enough on his plateright now. “It went well. I’m going to break dishes for therapy tomorrow. I’m taking Roxy and Kat with me. Roxy’s the new roommate, and she seems pretty cool.”

“Where do you plan to break these dishes? I hope not at the restaurant.” His voice sounds slightly concerned.

I begin to laugh as visions of me chucking plates in the kitchen of Anthony Haywood’s run through my mind. “Of course not. There’s a place called The Smash Shack that offers aggression services. We’re going there, and then I think I’ll take everyone out to dinner.”

“I’m jealous. They get to have your time, and I get nothing.”

“Hey, you went to Dallas. I’m still here. You have my heart, and they only have a bit of my time.” He can’t see me roll my eyes. He is so spoiled.

“How is everything at the house? I hope it’s still standing.”

“I don’t know. I haven’t been back there since I left Saturday night.” There is silence on the line.

“I figured as much. You never mentioned the flowers I sent, so I figured either you didn’t get them or you’re still mad at me.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know. I’ll stop by tomorrow morning. It would be weird to be at your house when you’re not there.”

“Damn it, Emma, it’sourhouse—notmyhouse. Go home to our house. Paint the walls pink if you want. Just do something, so it feels like home to you. You seem to have one foot in and one foot out of the door all the time. You’re going to have to decide. Are you in this relationship or out?” His voice rises with every word spoken until he is yelling at the end of the sentence.

“Don’t yell at me. You’re not here, and you’re the only thing that feels like home. You can be such an ass sometimes.” I hang up the phone and turn off the ringer.

What do you do when your life feels like it’s going downhill fast? Usually, I’d break out the wine and toss back a few. However, Imight be pregnant, and wine is now off-limits. I would also call reinforcements. I pick up my phone and text Kat.

SOS, I need you now.

On my way! How much wine do we need?

No wine, but Rocky Road ice cream is a must.

Quart or a gallon?

Buy out the store.

I put my phone down and change my clothes into my flannel pajamas and pink bunny slippers. Some people have comfort food. I have comfort clothes. Well, I also like ice cream.

I settle on my bed and wait for Kat. I look at my phone and see a missed call and text message. In the end, he’s right. I have to commit or let him go entirely. I can’t imagine my life without him. He makes everything brighter and more beautiful. The sky is bluer because he stands under it. The air is sweeter because he breathes it. I pick up my phone and text him.

I’m in.

In what?

In love with you. I’m sorry. I’m hormonal, but I am seeing the doctor this week. Forgive me?

Yes, go home and sleep in our bed. I want to smell you on my pillow when I get home. I love you, Em.

I’ll go tomorrow after I pick up the paint to match my prom dress. I think it’s an excellent color for the kitchen, don’t you?

Whatever you want, babe. I can overlook any color as long as I’m looking at you. I’m sorry I yelled.

It’s okay; we’re both under a lot of pressure. I love you. Let’s talk tomorrow night. Okay?

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