“I. I hope they do but. I’m still a little…” he trailed off, unable to finish the sentence. Scared. Why was he so scared? The loss of Sally, a woman who he thought of something like a friend had hurt. He hated pain, he hated feeling it, no matter if it was emotional or physical.
He pushed on. “B, but yeah. I’m. Willing to try.”
She noticed his pain, noticed the look in his eyes. She becoming good at reading his emotions, always watching his face for changes in mood or the hidden meanings between words. It was becoming a habit and a sixth sense.
Getting more on the bed, she nuzzled her nose against his neck, cuddling up next to him. “I’m happy you’re willing to try.. But I don’t want to push you so much either. A little bit at a time…I just thought with Metro Man…so you two can patch things up…But I know..after what happened…I won’t push you too much…I’d hate to become one of those girlfriends who doesn’t consider her guys’ opinions and feelings..”
“I don’ think it’s possible for you to think that way. Ever. You always take… take people’s feelings into consideration.” he said gently. “You always do.” Jack smiles at her, face purple, ear tips matching his cheeks, a sure sign of his shame in himself.
But he leans into her, wraps his arm around her gently. “…y… you won’t leave, will you?”
The question comes out of, seemingly, no where but he can’t help it. Seeing Sally storm off, after hearing her say such horrible things to him about his choices, about Katelynn, it ripped his heart out. It was pain all over again and Sally had mean to be a friend. She had hurt him, far more than he thought she would, and thinking of Katelynn out there in the city, healthy, spending time with all the men she’s listed t him he can’t help but fear she’ll find one who suits her. One who’s braver. Who can go out with her without needing to mentally prepare himself like he did.
Jack Maple 