Page 82 of Thanks for the Memories
“He’s so stubborn sometimes I just want to shake him.”
“Let me guess. He really likes Bethany, doesn’t he?”
She throws her arms up in frustration.
“I told him everything about the way she treated you, the way she made a move on Dante, and that she was probably using him. I begged him to stay away from her.”
“And he said no.”
“Not exactly,” she says. “He claims they’re just friends and that he’s only helping her find a job here.”
Hmm … I guess that means the move is still on. Terrific.
I shrug. “Maybe it’s true.”
She shakes her head. “I don’t think so. He’s only saying that to cover his butt in case she proves to be as bad as we think she is. Which she will.”
I lean against the counter. “At least you tried.”
“Oh, it’s not over. Paul is one of the good guys—I won’t let Bethany break his heart.”
This really sucks. I feel totally responsible for bringing Bethany into their lives. The last thing I want is for her to drive a wedge between Lila and Paul too.
“I’m so sorry about this.”
She lets out a long sigh. “It’s not your fault—he was all about Bethany the second she stepped foot on his boat. And I’m sure seeing that boat gave her a little nudge toward him too.”
I can’t disagree. She was like a kid in a candy store when she saw it. I have no doubt that’s one of the reasons she latched onto Paul so quickly.
“True, but I invited her to stay here,” I say glumly.
“Anyway, I’m planning on talking to Dante today, so I’m sure I’ll hear if she’s made any more moving plans. Maybe we can still help Paul before he gets in too deep.”
She gives me a disapproving look. “Why do you need to talk to Dante? I thought you were going to make him come to you.”
I was going to, but I’m to the point where I need closure.
“It’s time. I can’t do this anymore. When it comes down to it, I can’t compete with his dream,” I say. “Golden is his top priority right now, and I’m ready for more.”
“Are you sure you’re ready?” she asks worriedly. “What happens if he says he wants to continue seeing you?”
I chew on my bottom lip.
“He’s not going to say that,” I reply confidently. “He’s shown me where his priorities are, and actions speak louder than words.”
“Some men are all about the chase,” she mumbles. “If you tell him you’re moving on, it may light a fire under him. Right now, he thinks you’re waiting in the wings for when his restaurant becomes more settled.”
Dante said he isn’t ready, but would he change his mind if he knew about Jeremy? I still don’t think so, and I’m okay with that. The thought of Jeremy causes a wave of peace to come over me, and I need to hold on to that feeling for dear life. The way he’s makes me a priority and the way I feel when I’m with him. I don’t think those old feelings for Dante can compare anymore.
Gabby joins us, and I tell her what I’ve decided.
“He had his chance, and he blew it,” Lila says.
Gabby nods. “I think so too. Get the closure you need and then focus on you and Jeremy.”
That’s what I want, and their encouragement helps.
Gabby pulls me in for a hug. “You got this, and we will support you no matter what. Right, Lila?” She holds out her arm to her.
