Page 56 of Shattered Rhythm

“I know that. You’re the strongest person I know. I just need to work on letting go and trusting that you can take care of yourself.”

I smile at him, happy that we can have a civil conversation. “Thank you for apologizing, Gunner. I appreciate it.” He smiles back at me, relieved.

We stand there for a moment in silence, just looking at each other, then I suddenly become aware of the towel wrapped around my body and how little it covers. I take a step back, creating some space between us.

“Is there anything else you wanted to talk about?” I ask, trying to change the subject, and he nods.

“Yeah, I wanted to ask if you have plans today, or if you’d like to come and take a walk with me in the Japanese gardens? I’ve heard they’re pretty nice in early fall, and we could talk a bit more about those guys and what your plans are,” he says, and I frown a bit.

“Gunner…”

“Not to talk you out of it or anything. I just want to be the friend you need right now and not the asshole I was earlier. I don’t want to lose you because I fucked up.”

“You can’t get rid of me so easily,” I reply, reaching out and squeezing his forearm. “Sure, I’d love to do that. Somehow, I haven’t really done much since I moved here. Give me thirty minutes to get ready?”

“Sure,” he says with a smile, looking relieved. “Take your time and just come over when you’re ready.” He turns, and I close the door before going back into the bathroom to blow dry my hair.

* * *

I take my time getting ready, wanting to look pretty for Gunner, even though we’re just going for a walk. I put on a flowy, long-sleeved, yellow dress that comes to my mid-thigh and a pair of white sandals, then put my hair in a high ponytail, grab a small purse, put on some sunscreen, and head out the door. As I knock on Gunner’s door, he’s ready to go, dressed in a blue button-down shirt and khaki shorts. He smiles at me when he sees me.

“Hey. You look pretty,” he greets.

I can feel my cheeks turning red. I thank him before we head to his car. He’s driving an old black Land Rover Defender, and I feel a pang in my heart. My father used to drive a green one for his and Mr. Harris’ hunting trips.

I push away the sad thoughts and focus on Gunner, who opens the passenger door for me. I hop into the car, and he gets into the driver’s seat, putting some reggaeton on the radio before we’re off. Once we get to the Japanese garden, Gunner pays for both of our tickets, then we start to walk around. The sun is shining through the trees and casts a warm glow on everything, creating a peaceful atmosphere. We talk about everything and nothing, enjoying each other’s company without any tension or awkwardness. As we walk, Gunner reaches for my hand, and I let him take it. We reach a cute pond and sit down on a bench, watching the koi swim around in the water.

“I want to tell you again how truly sorry I am for last night,” he says, breaking the peaceful silence. “I was out of line.”

“I know,” I reply, looking at him. “I also know that you were coming from a place of concern, and I appreciate that.”

“I just want to make things right between us,” he whispers, turning to face me. “I value our friendship too much to lose it over something stupid.” I smile at him.

“Me too, but that won’t be happening because you’re my best friend, Gun,” I tell him.

We sit there for a while longer, enjoying the serene atmosphere. As we get up to leave, Gunner pulls me into a hug that’s warm and comforting.

“You’re my best friend too, Livy,” he whispers in my hair.

He lets go of me and takes my hand again, guiding me back on the trail towards the entry.

“So, tell me about the guys,” he says. “Not just a crush anymore it seems?” I blush and look at the ground.

“In the last two days, things have progressed with the twins. I kissed them both.”

“And they’re okay with you being with both of them?” he asks.

“They say so,” I respond with a shrug.

“And what about the other two?” he asks, and I bite my lip.

“I don’t know. I hung out with them, and they’re flirty and everything, but nothing happened,” I reply. He seems deep in thought for a minute before he speaks.

“What would you do if they want you to choose? I mean, do you think they’re going to be okay with sharing you between them?” he asks, his tone getting a bit bitter. “Don’t we all want to have one soulmate to love? The person who was made for you?”

“I get what you’re saying, and I’ve thought about it too, a lot,” I reply with a nod. “The thing is, though, I’m not sure if I believe in soulmates. I did once, and all it brought me was pain.” He furrows his brows, but I continue, “And even if I did, I’m not sure if it’s fair to limit myself to just one person when there are so many different kinds of love and connections out there. Maybe it’s possible to have more than one soulmate, or maybe the concept of soulmates is just something we’ve been conditioned by society to believe. My heart is big enough for all of them, and I like them all the same.”

Gunner nods slowly. “I see your point. I guess I’m just a bit old-fashioned that way.”

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