Page 40 of Bossy Hero

However, as I replay the glare Maddie had on her face when she finally made eye contact with me, I begin to doubt whether my assertion is true.

Chapter5

From the emails of Big Al & Maddie

To: justmaddie2

From: ALancaster

Subject: Sorry

Maddie, I fucked up last night. I apologize.

To be clear, I’m not sorry for punching your husband. He deserves it. I’d do that a million times over.

But I’m sorry for what I said to you when we were near the bar. It’s not my place to judge you or your marriage.

No man should ever raise his hand to you in anger. Especially your husband. You deserve better than someone like him. I just don’t understand how you can keep taking him back when there are people who want to help you get free.

Even still, that doesn’t give me the right to say those things.

I’m very sorry.

I hope you’re okay. I’ve been worried sick about you. I’m sure you won’t reply to me, but at least send word that you’re okay to Leo. He’s concerned too.

Again, I apologize. I only want you to be safe and happy.

Alan

* * *

Three years later

To: justmaddie2

From: ALancaster

Subject: Let’s try this again

Hi Maddie,

I heard you filed for divorce (again). Congratulations.

Oops! Silly of me not to (re)introduce myself. I’m sure you don’t remember me.

I’m the guy you met one time outside an Army base in Georgia. We spent the night together but never so much as touched. Still one of the most memorable nights of my life. I’ve played it back in my mind no less than once a day for going on eight years now.

Anyhow... yeah, that’s me.

Oh, I’m also the guy who fucked up royally the last time he saw you, thus destroying all remaining shreds of our friendship. Same guy who hasn’t stopped beating himself up over it.

Self-deprecating jokes aside, I thought I’d reach out since my time in the service is over, and I’m transitioning to a new life. I need practice communicating with people from the outside world. You know? Those who don’t exclusively express themselves via acronyms and four-letter words. For that reason, and only that reason, I was wondering if we could start messaging again.

Heads up. Vulnerable moment incoming in 3, 2, 1.

I’m sure you’re surprised to hear this, but that’s not why I’m reaching out. Here’s the truth.

I miss our random nonsense-babbling emails when insomnia strikes. I miss your sweet side and your surprisingly dirty mind. I even miss your terrible jokes. I guess I just miss you. I miss our friendship, as sporadic and unusual as it was. I liked calling you my friend and being in your life.

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