Page 137 of A Moment for Us
“You being out of the house.”
“Well, unless you want me to go crazy being trapped in a house, staring at all the things that Josh left, you won’t fight me and you’ll be understanding.”
“I can be understanding without liking the situation. Speaking of that man, have you heard from him?”
I sigh. “He’s called or texted me each day. I just haven’t replied. He knows I’m fine because his siblings keep stopping by.”
“Oh?”
“Jess came, then Stella was yesterday.”
“And you don’t want to talk to him?”
I want to talk to him more than anything. I miss him so much it freaking hurts, but I can’t cave in and leave my heart exposed more than it is. We should be dealing with our grief as a couple, but we’re not. I’m doing it on my own, and if I’m going to be a single mother, I should get used to it.
“What’s the point?” I say with defeat. “Unless he suddenly got his ten years’ worth of baggage under control, we’re at the same point.”
She gives me a sad smile. “I was really rooting for you guys.”
“Me too.”
“I think he loves you.”
“Well, he sucks at showing it.”
Ronyelle shifts her weight and chews on her lower lip.
“Say it,” I encourage. We both know she’s going to anyway.
“All right. I don’t know what his deal is, but I do know you. You aren’t a quitter. You fight for the people you love, and I’m going out on a limb saying that whatever the eldest Parkerson’s issue is, it’s not you. There’s clearly something he needs to resolve, and, well, I can’t think of anyone more capable of making him want it than you.”
“That may be, but Josh has to wantmemore than his regret, and until that happens, we’re never going to be together.”
“I hope it changes.” Ronyelle’s soft voice trembles.
“Me too.”
More than anyone will ever know.
Chapter 41
Joshua
“Just do what I say, Oliver!” I snap.
Oliver turns slowly, and the calm façade is a precursor to him unleashing his inner rage.
“I’m going to wait for the apology I deserve.”
I close my eyes, wanting to fight him. It would be so much easier if he would’ve just punched me.
“Anytime, Josh,” Oliver prompts.
“I’m . . . I’m . . .”
“Sorry. That’s the word you’re looking for, asshole.”
“Sorry,” I finish.
