Page 72 of You've Got a Place Here, Too
DANICA
I know. I’m sorry. All I can say is I needed something good to happen.
She stands.
I found out my mother had cancer after my first semester.
STERLING
Jesus, Dani. I’m sorry.
DANICA
Thanks. It was over Christmas break while I was here at home. I almost didn’t go back to school. But the doctors said that with chemo her chances were better than good. She and Auntie Katherine insisted I finish out the year at UVI. I was on a scholarship that I worked hard for. They didn’t want me to give it up. Auntie Katherine upended her life so she could take care of my mom and my little brother. So I went back and then I met you. I didn’t tell you because you were the good thing I needed to happen.
She sits again and begins to cry.
The doctors were wrong. The chemo’s not working like they thought it would.
STERLING
(goes to her and pulls her into his arms)
DANICA
(still crying)
I’m sorry I didn’t tell you the truth. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you I love you.
STERLING
(happy but cautious, cautious but happy)
You love me?
DANICA
(nodding fiercely)
So much.
(deep sigh)
But my mom needs me here. My brother needs me. Auntie Katherine needs me. I don’t know what’s going to happen, but my time at UVI is up. I need to be here now. And you need to be—
STERLING
(interrupting quietly)
Stop. Let me decide what I need to be. I understand why you kept this from me. I’m mad. But I understand.
(smiling now)
All your aunt said when she texted me was: Danica needs you. That, and your address. It didn’t even occur to me not to come. I always knew I’d see you again. I didn’t know when, but I knew we weren’t done with each other.
Takes her hands.
Dani, what’s between us doesn’t feel temporary to me. Does it feel temporary to you?
