Page 113 of One Foggy Christmas
Her stare flicks to me. When I don’t immediately glance away, pretending to care about the view outside, she scrunches her nose and points to the window. I roll my eyes, reluctantly switching my gaze to the snowy mountains.
The sun dimsin the sky, signaling the train ride is almost over. I’d stay on and repeat the whole thing if it meant more time with Sadie.
“So you’ve just been traveling these last few months?” She shakes her head in disbelief, still trying to reconcile that piece of information inside her head.
“Mm-hmm.”
“All by yourself? Like, you didn’t take anyone on your trips with you?”
Is this her way of asking if I’m single?
It’s hard because I want to believe in fate and hope for things with her, but I also know that if she thought there was any sliver of a chance she could love me again, she would’ve contacted me by now. And she hasn’t.
“I was married once.” My eyes turn soft as I gaze back at her. “She was the love of my life. After experiencing a love like that, you don’t bother with anyone else because nothing will compare to what you already had.”
Her lips press into a sad smile, taking in each word I said. “What happened?”
“She forgot how to love me.”
“I bet she wishes she could’ve remembered.”
“I don’t blame her for any of it.” My shoulders lift. “It’s just one of those things. Have you ever been married?”
“Yes.” A solemn smile plays across her lips. “But I broke his heart because I needed space.”
“I’m sure he understands and is trying to move on.”
“I hope so, because he deserves to be happy.”
“Life has a way of leveling relationships down to the bare bones, doesn’t it?”
“It sure does.” She shakes her head. “But I’ve learned to keep fighting and trying to find new footing.”
“And have you found it?”
“I think so.”
“With someone new?” I’ve been wondering all day about Stetson, but now I’m dreading her answer.
“After my accident, I just needed some time to myself. There wasn’t enough room in my head for anyone old or new. So I’ve just been single, trying to figure it all out.”
One year ago, I wasn’t man enough to wish Sadie all the love she deserved, even if it wasn’t with me. I’m in a better spot now.I could wish her happiness in love, but I’m glad I don’t have to. A big part of me is relieved she didn’t end up with Stetson after all.
The whistle blows, and our eyes meet, knowing our fated meet-up is ending.
An announcement starts overhead as the train rolls into the station. Passengers immediately stand, gathering their things. I help Sadie with her suitcase, carrying it onto the platform.
We turn to face each other, and a new heaviness fills my heart, a dread of losing her again despite not even having her. I should just be grateful for the time we spent together, for the reassurance that Sadie fought through the darkness and made it to the light again.
“Nash Carter.” She reaches her hand out to me again. “I loved getting to know you today.”
Her gesture feels like a pointed goodbye. She was happy to see me and catch up but has no intention of continuing anything else.
“I loved getting to know you too.” I take her hand in mine, feeling that same spark that never died out for me.
Our hands drop, and it sucks. I’m back at her house on Christmas Eve, feeling her slipping out of my life like water in my hands.
“Where are you staying?” I glance behind me to the waiting shuttles. “Maybe we could share a ride or something.”
