Page 85 of Thanks for the Memories
He gives me a concerned look. “Okay.”
Tears begins to fill my eyes, and I try desperately to hold them back.
“I’ve started seeing someone.” I pause and take a deep breath. “I know we only had that one day together, but I felt like I needed to be honest with you.”
His face falls.
“The truth is, I’ve cared about you for a very long time,” I say my voice quivering. “Longer than you may realize, and I thought us reconnecting here meant we’d finally have our chance.”
He doesn’t speak up, so I continue talking.
“I’m so proud of you for accomplishing all your goals, and I know Golden is going to be a huge success because of how amazing you are. I’d never ask you to choose me over your dream—but I have to choose me.”
I might have said too much, but I needed to get it out. As soon as I said those words it felt like a huge weight was lifted off of me.
“Wow,” he says, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Sorry. I know that was a lot.”
He shakes his head. “No, it was just right. You deserve so much more than what I can give you right now.”
“And you were completely up front about that,” I point out.
He sighs and looks away. “Damn, I know I’m going to regret not fighting for you.”
I reach across the table and squeeze his hand. “Don’t have regrets about making your dreams come true.”
The corner of his mouth turns up. “Reagan, you’re everything a man could want. Beautiful, kind, sexy, patient … this guy better appreciate you.”
I try to swallow back the tears. “He does.”
“Does he make you happy?”
“Very much.”
“That’s all that matters to me.” He stands up and pulls me to my feet, engulfing me in a massive hug. “Your friendship means the world to me. And I’m always here if you need me.”
“Same here,” I say, resting my head on his chest.
I know in my heart we’ll always be friends. And I’ll always have my memories, but I’m finally letting go, and it feels right. There are so many mixed emotions swirling around inside me right now. Sadness, resolve, peace, but most of all I feel free.
After I leave Dante, I sit in my car for a few minutes to gather my thoughts and catch my breath. I think deep down I knew it would end up this way. Dante and I were friends, and most friendships don’t evolve into more. And thankfully, some do. Now I can be fully present for Jeremy the way he deserves.
On my way home I call my sister to tell her about my conversation with Dante.
“Good for you,” she enthuses. “I’m sure that was difficult.”
“It was, but I feel really positive about it.”
“So now what?”
I pull into my neighborhood and wave to William the guard.
“Now I get ready for my date with Jeremy,” I say excitedly.
“I can’t wait to hear all about it. Don’t forget you promised to call me and give me all the details.”
“Did I?”
