Page 82 of Red Zone Realizations
Tell teammates
Go to Chicago and scope out housing
Plan going-away party
Research Illinois LLC laws
Sublet rental house
Line up long-term care for Noah’s house
I blink twice in quick succession; not sure I’m reading right. “Audrey, why are you subletting your rental?”
She looks at me like I’m the dumbest person she’s ever met. “Because we’re moving?”
My brain does not compute. “What?”
Her face twists in confusion. “Were you not asking me to go with you?” She barks a laugh. “Wow, that’s embarrassing.”
“I can’t ask that of you, Audrey. We haven’t even been together that long. Your whole life is here.” I gesture broadly at the city sprawling out around us.
She shakes her head. “I think you know me better than anyone. I think you see me more than I’ve ever been seen. You practically have X-ray vision.” She runs her hands down the length of my arms to reach for my hands. “There’s nothing keeping me here, Noah. My parents are disappointed in me no matter what I do. I’ve barely seen my sister since I told her I’m done taking her shit and won’t give her any more money. My business is online and can be run from anywhere.” She pauses. “The only thing I’m tethered to is you. You were there for me when I needed you. Now it’s my turn to return the favor.” She squeezes my hands to make me look her in the eyes. “This is what I want, Noah.”
I take my hands from hers and cup her face. She instinctively turns into warmth. “Right now, all I have to give you is my words and my promises, but when we get to Chicago, if that’s where we both land, then you’ll see my love in action.”
Chapter Forty-Six
AUDREY
I knew in an instant I was going with him. The split-second thought of living here without Noah would throw me into a tailspin. I’d follow him anywhere, even if I did have something anchoring me to Houston. This is where I started, so it’s kind of where I stayed. I never actively chose it. If I made a pros and cons list (which I won’t), the only things under the “pro” column for Houston would be good food and Noah. And if Noah leaves…
For years I’ve had my nose to the ground, doing everything that was expected of me. I was a good little fiancée, and the responsible, helpful daughter. The one you didn’t need to worry about. What did all of that get me? A life that seemed full, but felt like a hamster wheel, and gave me nothing but a deep-seated distrust in men. I was so suspicious of them I almost blew things with Noah because I couldn’t fathom a man who’s honest and forthcoming with his feelings instead of manipulating me and everything around me.
Part of the reason I don’t want kids is because I can makedecisions like this without taking anyone else’s future into consideration. I’ll have no problem subletting my house, packing up, and heading out. I’m not tied down to anything. Reba and Dolly are easygoing and don’t get a say in life-changing decisions. I don’t have to find them a house in a good school district. The only thing I’m responsible for is me. That makes this an easy decision because the only other person I have to care for is Noah.
