Page 136 of Could Have Been Us
“I love her.” There really is no other explanation. To be with another woman felt stupid and wrong. I didn’t want to find a replacement version of Stella, not when the real thing was right there.
He watches his sister and daughter, who are curled up on the couch together, eating KitKats that Stella had delivered yesterday with a bunch of other groceries. They are busy giggling about whatever they’re discussing.
“A stupid man—his name is Jack, in case you’re wondering—told me once about moments. How life was all about moments. Well, Jack, the same one I just mentioned, live in the damn moment. If you love her, marry her before she realizes you are, in fact, stupid.”
I let out a silent laugh. “You should be a life coach.”
“I thought about it.”
“Failed the class?”
“Apparently, you’re supposed to be optimistic and encouraging, not a sarcastic ogre.”
I nod. “Seems we’re both out.”
“At least we’re failing together.” Grayson nudges my arm.
“As it should be.”
“Have you heard from Kinsley?” he asks softly.
That light feeling I had starts to drift away.
“No.”
“I’m sorry, Jack. For more than just that. I wish I had been the friend you needed during it all. If you had told me, I would’ve been there.”
“You would’ve been livid,” I correct.
“Maybe at first because I’m an asshole, but then I would’ve come around. Still, you shouldn’t have had to suffer alone.”
“She is who suffered alone.”
Stella didn’t have anyone other than her grandmother, and she passed away about a year after Kinsley was born. We both suffered in silence because of the threats from her parents.
“Doesn’t make it right for either of you.”
I let out a long sigh, which causes Stella to turn to me. Her eyes ask a million questions, but I wink, letting her know I’m fine. Her eyes narrow on Grayson, who raises his hands in surrender.
“Hey, I didn’t do anything. He breathed.”
“You made him breathe with anger.”
Grayson rolls his eyes and starts to walk away. “God help Jack for putting up with you.”
“I heard that.”
He turns back to her. “I’m glad. That man is going to be nominated for sainthood.” She sticks her tongue out at him, and everyone laughs. “Mature, as always, Meatball.”
“Whatever.”
When we step into the living room, Amelia leaps off Stella’s lap and runs to me. “Do you have any surprises for me?” she asks with her long lashes moving up and down. She’s perfected this innocent and sweet look.
While Stella feeds Amelia KitKats, I usually give her mints. She’s not picky about what contraband she gets so long as she gets it. “I might.”
Grayson groans. “No more sugar.”
“But, Gray, the best part is getting her all hopped up on it and then making her go home.” Stella grins, her hands tucked under her chin.
