Summerset, page 12
“I was hoping you would say yes.” We embrace for a few minutes until my tears dry up. “Would you like to see your ring? You didn’t give me a chance to give it to you.”
He takes the ring out of the box. He takes my hand and puts the ring on. It’s a beautiful ring. I don’t know much about jewelry. But it is a round diamond. The side of the ring is surrounded by smaller diamonds.
“I hope you like it.”
“It’s beautiful, perfect.”
“We can take it to size it tomorrow if you like.”
“You are crazy.” I lightly laughing.
“For you. I love you Samantha.”
“I love you too. Can I ask you for a favor?”
“Anything.”
“Do you think we can keep this between us for now? I want to get dad ready before we tell him. You know how he is and he has been doing so well.”
“Of course. But I have to warn you Jenny already knows.” He smiles.
“Did you ask her to help you?”
“Yes. I wanted to do this from the first time I kissed you. I think I have been in love with you since the first night I set eyes on you. This weekend I want you to enjoy yourself and think of nothing.”
“I will.”
It’s exactly what I plan to do. I am going to clear my mind of everything. I am not going to think about my dad or Summerset. I am going to enjoy my time with my amazing fiancé.
Sammy
I am startled awake. I had a restless night. It’s the same thing every year. Today is mom’s death anniversary. It’s a tough day. It’s even tougher on dad. Every year he gets drunk beyond reason. I am hoping this year will be different. He has been doing great. If he does drink, maybe just a few. I hope. He hasn’t been as angry anymore. Prayerfully this will be a better year. I turn to see it’s five in the morning. No matter how much I try I am not going back to sleep. I get up and start cleaning. Cleaning always makes me relax. I start with my room so I won’t wake dad. About a half hour later I move to my bathroom.
I make my way to the downstairs bathroom next to dad’s room. His door is close. I don’t try to go in. Usually I have to sneak in to clean his bedroom. I make my way to the living room. Dad is passed out on the couch with two bottles of whiskey. This is not going to be a good day after all. I don’t even know why I thought it would be different. I go to his bedroom change the sheets and take all his dirty clothes. I put a load in the machine. I happen to glance at the clock. It’s eight now. Time is passing. Upstairs I check on my phone. I am sure Chris has called or text by now. He doesn’t know the extent of what today means with dad. I look at the message.
Chris: Morning babe, I know today is not a good day. Call me when you wake.
I take my phone and make my way to the kitchen to start coffee. I call Chris from the back porch. It’s away from the living room. I won’t run the risk waking dad. He answers after a few rings.
“Morning babe,” he says.
“Good morning my love.”
“How are you feeling?”
“I am ok. Today is always hard. Where are you?”
“I am at the office. I wanted to get an early start.”
“My fiancé the workaholic.” I tease.
“I have to earn a living to give my beautiful bride to be everything she wants.” I hear humor in his voice.
“I don’t need anything other than you. You know that.”
“I know. What do you have plan today?”
“I am going to finish cleaning the house. Later I am going to visit mom and put fresh flowers.” I say sad.
“Do you mind if I come? I can pick you up.”
“It’s ok. I know you have to work.”
“I came early to get couple of things done. I am hoping you let me spend the day with you.”
“I am such a lucky girl.” I smile holding back tears.
“I am the lucky one. When can I pick you up?”
“Dad is not having a good day. He is passed out on the couch. Can I meet you at Georgia’s?” He stays quiet for a moment. “I am fine. I don’t want to set him off. It looks like he had a rough night.” I add breaking the silence.
“I am not happy about this. I don’t like how he gets with you when he is drunk.”
Chris has seen dad yell at me a few times while he has picked me up. Nothing major though. He hasn’t seen the full extent of dad’s anger. I am hoping he will never do.
“I am used to it.”
“You shouldn’t.” He says dry.
It’s the same conversation we have any time my dad’s drinking comes up. He is becoming more like Donny. The thought makes me smile. It lets me know he cares about me.
“Please, I don’t want to argue about this.”
“I am sorry babe. I’ll meet you at Georgia’s. What time do you want to meet?”
“What time are you going to be done at the office?”
“I should be done about lunch time.”
“Perfect, gives me enough time. I love you Chris.”
“I love you too babe.”
We both stay on the line for a few seconds without talking. “I should let you go.” I add.
“See you in a few hours.”
Despite it being a hard day, talking with Chris has made it better. I don’t remember much of mom but I remember how happy and beautiful she was. Thinking of her is making me teary. I go back to the kitchen. I want to cook food for dad. Maybe he will eat something, sober up. I walk towards the kitchen. Dad is up. The tv is on. He has a beer in his hand. Insane. I have only been gone less than five minutes. I walk in the living room.
“Morning dad, did you sleep well?” I ask hesitant.
“Don’t bother me Samantha. Get out.” He yells.
I take a deep breath. “I am making breakfast. Would you like something in particular?”
“Get out. It’s your fault your momma is dead. You selfish child.”
His words are a knife cutting me deep. He says the same thing every year. He blames me for mom’s death. She was on her way to pick me up when a car ran her off the road. I blamed myself for the better part of my childhood. No child should live through that. During high school, Donny finally convinced me it had nothing to do with me but the other driver and dad’s anger. I take another deep breath. I reign my tears. I leave the living room and run upstairs. I grab my bag, my phone and run back down. I leave the house. Dad is yelling something in the background. I pay him no mind. I know better. I should be used to him by now but I am not. It still hits me in the core when he gets like this. He is my dad. Why would he want to hurt me? I loss mom just like he lost his wife.
Outside I realize it’s cold. I am wearing jeans and a t-shirt. I am tempted to go back inside but I don’t want to face him. Donny is at work. I can’t ask him for a sweater. I could go to his room and grab one. But I don’t want his mom asking questions. I feel the urge to hear Chris’s voice. Without another thought I dial him. He answers after one ring.
“Hey babe, was up?”
I take a deep breath to calm down but it’s useless. “I am leaving the house. I’ll be in Georgia’s early. Do you think you could come as early as you can?” I ask with heavy sobs.
“What’s wrong? Why are you leaving your house early? Was it your dad?” He asks with an upset tone.
“I am fine, would you come as soon as you can please?”
“I’ll be there in fifteen minutes. I am going to wrap something up.”
“No, I didn’t mean leave work now. I am sorry, go back to work. I will see you later.”
“I will be there in fifteen minutes.”
“I love you Chris.”
“I love you too, babe. I’ll meet you shortly.”
I probably should have not called and interrupt him at work. But I could use his company. I wrap my arms around myself to try and find warmth. I am happy the walk to Georgia’s is not long. I am glad the breakfast rush is almost over. I walk to the counter.
“Sammy, my dear. Did I forget and scheduled you?”
“Oh no,” I try to say as normal as possible.
“Where is your jacket? It’s cold outside.”
“I ran out the house without looking at the weather. I didn’t want to wake dad.”
“Let me get you some tea. Go on and sit at a table. Did you eat?”
“I’m ok.” I lie.
They all know what today is. They know about dad treating me horribly on this day. It’s the same thing every year. I walk to the table near the door. I sit and stare out the window. The tears roll down. A few minutes later Georgia brings a croissant and tea. I wipe my tears with my hand. I smile but say nothing. Ten minutes later the chime of the door gets my attention. Chris scans the diner. He spots me. He looks worried and practically runs to me.
“Oh babe,” he sits beside me. “You look cold. Come here.” He pulls me in for a hug. “Where is your jacket?”
I look at him willing myself to answer but no words come out. Instead a flood of fresh tears. I put my face on his chest and cry uncontrollably. He says nothing. He soothes my hair. We must have been like this for a lifetime. I finally calm down. Georgia makes her way to the table.
“Chris, would you like something to eat or drink?”
“No ma’am. How much do we owe you?”
“Oh, nothing child. You take care of Sammy. That’s payment enough. Sammy, you need to eat something.”
“I am ok Georgia,” I shift my head so our eyes can meet.
“If you change your mind just find me.”
“Thank you,” Chris says to Georgia. “Do you want to leave?”
“Yes please. I would like to see mom.”
“Ok, but we need to get you a jacket. You can’t be outside in a t-shirt.”
He takes his suit jacket and drapes it over me. He gets up, holds out his hand and helps me out the booth. I see Georgia give Chris an appreciative nod. We walk outside. Chris brought his driver. He looks at me.
“I didn’t want to get my car. Before we go see your mom, can we go to my apartment? I really would like to get you something to wear. I think you left a sweater last time you were over.”
I shake my head. The logical part of my brain knows this is the best course of action even though the other part of me wants to see mom.
“I promise we can leave right away. I want to change myself.”
“Ok,” I manage to say.
We walk to the car and get in. Chris moved in to the only high rise in town. It’s a luxuries building. He pretty much bought the top floor and had it converted into a penthouse. We get to the building and make our way to the elevator. We are both silent. He keeps me close. After a few minutes the elevator door reaches his floor.
“I am going to change. I should be right out.”
“I will be at the couch.” He gives me a gentle kiss.
“I am sorry babe. I wish I could take your pain away. I love you.”
“Thank you. I love you too.”
He leaves to his bedroom. I walk over to the couch. I see the oversize blanket I was using the other night. It makes me smile. I mentioned to Chris a couple of weeks back he should have a blanket on the couch. He bought one. It’s a red furry one. I wonder if it’s because I love red. Over a sudden I get cold. I sit and cover myself. It’s warm and comforting. I sit back and lay my head on the edge. I wake startled.
“Hey,” Chris says caressing my cheek.
“How long have I been sleeping?” I ask.
“About two hours.”
“I am so sorry. I dragged you out of work and…” I start saying.
“You were tired. I got some work done while you slept. How are you feeling?”
“A little better.” I lean in to him.
“You should probably eat.”
“I am not hungry.”
“Well I am. I would like for you to join me. You have to eat something, anything.”
“Ok.”
We walk to the kitchen. It’s filled with different things. All my favorites. He must have gone to Georgia’s.
“I wasn’t sure what you wanted to eat. I got a little of everything. Georgia thought you might like some of your favorite things.”
My eyes fill with tears. I pull him in for a hug. Could this man be any more perfect? “Thank you. You are amazing.”
“I know,” he teases making me giggle. “There is my girl. Let’s eat before it gets cold.”
“When did you go to Georgia’s?” I sit at the table.
“I called her. My driver picked up the food.” He pulls the chair beside me. “Are you going to tell me what happened earlier?”
“It’s not important anymore.”
“What did your dad say?”
“Nothing he hasn’t told me before.”
“Please talk to me.” He pleas.
“My mom died when I was little.”
“I know.”
“I never told you how. She died in a car crash. She was on her way to pick me up when a car ran her off the road. Dad blames me for her death.” I add quietly.
“That is a terrible thing to say to a child.”
“It was hard for me growing up. Eventually I learned it wasn’t my fault.”
“Of course, it wasn’t.” He pulls me and kisses my head. “I am sorry babe.”
“It’s fine. I should be used to it by now.”
“It’s not fine.”
“He is hurting. I understand the pain. I miss her every day. It just hurts and cuts me when he tells me is my fault.” I say my eyes getting watery again.
“I am sorry.” He squeezes my hand. I smile.
For the next twenty minutes we sit and eat. He talks. I mainly listen. I don’t talk. He doesn’t force me. It’s nice. Exactly what you need on a day like this one.
“Do you want to go visit your mom now?”
“Yes.”
“Let me get your sweater and we can go.”
“Thank you.” I gently kiss him. “You are an amazing man. I am so lucky.”
“I am the lucky one. Let’s go visit your mom.” He smiles. He pulls me in for a hug. He kisses the top of my head.
We go and see mom. He bought fresh flowers for her. We stay for about an hour before I am ready to leave. I walk to Chris who has been standing on the side giving me privacy. I love this man more than the air I breathe.
Sammy
It’s been a few days since mom’s death anniversary. Dad has been in a foul mood ever since. I haven’t spent time at home. I only go to sleep. I am exhausted. I lean against the counter at Georgia. I am oblivious to everything happening around me.
“Hey,” I hear Chris snap me from my inner monologue.
“Hi, what are you doing here? I thought you were working all day?”
“Babe, it’s almost six.”
“What?” Have I really been so out of it the hours passed without me knowing?
“Did you eat today?”
“I am trying to wrap my head around the fact it’s almost six.” I walk around to him.
“You work too hard. Come here.” He holds out his hand. “I am worried about you.”
“I am fine, just a little tired.”
“I would be if I was working non-stop two jobs for the last week. Let me take you home.” I stiffen. I don’t want to go home and deal with dad. “Why don’t we go to my place?” He asks. I release the breath and tension I have been holding.
“That sounds great. Let me tell Georgia I am leaving. I’ll go and get my things.”
“I’ll be here, waiting.” He smiles.
For a moment I stay frozen looking at the amazing man standing in front of me. He brings peace to my life. I feel loved and safe. How many people can say that? I smile and walk to Georgia. After a few minutes, I walk back to where I left Chris standing. I can’t help but smile. Despite everything, he is still here.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Always. Let’s go home.”
The words jolt inside. Home. A simple word. Yet with so much depth, weight. It doesn’t take long to get to Chris’s place.
“I want to talk to you about something.” He says as we walk in the building.
“What?” I ask nervous.
“I’ll tell you upstairs.”
“Why would you do that? Why would you say I want to talk but later?” I ask confused. He laughs. “Don’t laugh.” There is humor in his eyes.
“I am sorry. When you are angry a v forms on your forehead. It’s cute.” He pulls me in for a hug while we wait for the elevator. “It’s nothing bad I promise.” He adds kissing the top of my head. We are upstairs a few minutes later. He is radiating happiness.
“Are you going to tell me?” I smile, curious and inpatient as he opens the door.
“Almost,” he says smiling.
“Chris, you are killing me here.” I lightly punch his arm.
“Ouch that hurt.” He teases.
“Please.” I say plea.
He takes a hold of my hand and walks me to the couch. He is quiet. I might even say nervous. There is tension on his shoulders. I am scared now.
“Chris, you are scaring me. What is wrong?” This is it. He is going to break up with me. He realized this relationship is more than he bargained for.
“I want you to move in with me.”
Not what I was expecting. A loaded statement. I was raised right. I can’t move in with a man. I am not that kind of girl.
“Chris, I…” I start saying.
“What I mean, I want to marry you now. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I don’t see the point in waiting. We are both adults.”
“I don’t know what to say.” I say honestly.
“Say yes. We can get married by the end of the week. You don’t have to deal with your dad anymore.”
“I don’t want to get married because you don’t want me to deal with my dad.” I say quietly. I stand and walk to the window. He follows me.
“It’s not what I meant. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. We have waited long enough. No point in waiting. There isn’t anything keeping you here.” I weight his words. I know how I feel. I don’t want to be with anyone other than him but it’s so soon. I haven’t even met his parents. He senses my hesitation. “This is about you and me. No one else. Do you love me?” I do. There is no doubt in my mind. “Samantha, I am in love with you.” I throw myself at him.
He takes the ring out of the box. He takes my hand and puts the ring on. It’s a beautiful ring. I don’t know much about jewelry. But it is a round diamond. The side of the ring is surrounded by smaller diamonds.
“I hope you like it.”
“It’s beautiful, perfect.”
“We can take it to size it tomorrow if you like.”
“You are crazy.” I lightly laughing.
“For you. I love you Samantha.”
“I love you too. Can I ask you for a favor?”
“Anything.”
“Do you think we can keep this between us for now? I want to get dad ready before we tell him. You know how he is and he has been doing so well.”
“Of course. But I have to warn you Jenny already knows.” He smiles.
“Did you ask her to help you?”
“Yes. I wanted to do this from the first time I kissed you. I think I have been in love with you since the first night I set eyes on you. This weekend I want you to enjoy yourself and think of nothing.”
“I will.”
It’s exactly what I plan to do. I am going to clear my mind of everything. I am not going to think about my dad or Summerset. I am going to enjoy my time with my amazing fiancé.
Sammy
I am startled awake. I had a restless night. It’s the same thing every year. Today is mom’s death anniversary. It’s a tough day. It’s even tougher on dad. Every year he gets drunk beyond reason. I am hoping this year will be different. He has been doing great. If he does drink, maybe just a few. I hope. He hasn’t been as angry anymore. Prayerfully this will be a better year. I turn to see it’s five in the morning. No matter how much I try I am not going back to sleep. I get up and start cleaning. Cleaning always makes me relax. I start with my room so I won’t wake dad. About a half hour later I move to my bathroom.
I make my way to the downstairs bathroom next to dad’s room. His door is close. I don’t try to go in. Usually I have to sneak in to clean his bedroom. I make my way to the living room. Dad is passed out on the couch with two bottles of whiskey. This is not going to be a good day after all. I don’t even know why I thought it would be different. I go to his bedroom change the sheets and take all his dirty clothes. I put a load in the machine. I happen to glance at the clock. It’s eight now. Time is passing. Upstairs I check on my phone. I am sure Chris has called or text by now. He doesn’t know the extent of what today means with dad. I look at the message.
Chris: Morning babe, I know today is not a good day. Call me when you wake.
I take my phone and make my way to the kitchen to start coffee. I call Chris from the back porch. It’s away from the living room. I won’t run the risk waking dad. He answers after a few rings.
“Morning babe,” he says.
“Good morning my love.”
“How are you feeling?”
“I am ok. Today is always hard. Where are you?”
“I am at the office. I wanted to get an early start.”
“My fiancé the workaholic.” I tease.
“I have to earn a living to give my beautiful bride to be everything she wants.” I hear humor in his voice.
“I don’t need anything other than you. You know that.”
“I know. What do you have plan today?”
“I am going to finish cleaning the house. Later I am going to visit mom and put fresh flowers.” I say sad.
“Do you mind if I come? I can pick you up.”
“It’s ok. I know you have to work.”
“I came early to get couple of things done. I am hoping you let me spend the day with you.”
“I am such a lucky girl.” I smile holding back tears.
“I am the lucky one. When can I pick you up?”
“Dad is not having a good day. He is passed out on the couch. Can I meet you at Georgia’s?” He stays quiet for a moment. “I am fine. I don’t want to set him off. It looks like he had a rough night.” I add breaking the silence.
“I am not happy about this. I don’t like how he gets with you when he is drunk.”
Chris has seen dad yell at me a few times while he has picked me up. Nothing major though. He hasn’t seen the full extent of dad’s anger. I am hoping he will never do.
“I am used to it.”
“You shouldn’t.” He says dry.
It’s the same conversation we have any time my dad’s drinking comes up. He is becoming more like Donny. The thought makes me smile. It lets me know he cares about me.
“Please, I don’t want to argue about this.”
“I am sorry babe. I’ll meet you at Georgia’s. What time do you want to meet?”
“What time are you going to be done at the office?”
“I should be done about lunch time.”
“Perfect, gives me enough time. I love you Chris.”
“I love you too babe.”
We both stay on the line for a few seconds without talking. “I should let you go.” I add.
“See you in a few hours.”
Despite it being a hard day, talking with Chris has made it better. I don’t remember much of mom but I remember how happy and beautiful she was. Thinking of her is making me teary. I go back to the kitchen. I want to cook food for dad. Maybe he will eat something, sober up. I walk towards the kitchen. Dad is up. The tv is on. He has a beer in his hand. Insane. I have only been gone less than five minutes. I walk in the living room.
“Morning dad, did you sleep well?” I ask hesitant.
“Don’t bother me Samantha. Get out.” He yells.
I take a deep breath. “I am making breakfast. Would you like something in particular?”
“Get out. It’s your fault your momma is dead. You selfish child.”
His words are a knife cutting me deep. He says the same thing every year. He blames me for mom’s death. She was on her way to pick me up when a car ran her off the road. I blamed myself for the better part of my childhood. No child should live through that. During high school, Donny finally convinced me it had nothing to do with me but the other driver and dad’s anger. I take another deep breath. I reign my tears. I leave the living room and run upstairs. I grab my bag, my phone and run back down. I leave the house. Dad is yelling something in the background. I pay him no mind. I know better. I should be used to him by now but I am not. It still hits me in the core when he gets like this. He is my dad. Why would he want to hurt me? I loss mom just like he lost his wife.
Outside I realize it’s cold. I am wearing jeans and a t-shirt. I am tempted to go back inside but I don’t want to face him. Donny is at work. I can’t ask him for a sweater. I could go to his room and grab one. But I don’t want his mom asking questions. I feel the urge to hear Chris’s voice. Without another thought I dial him. He answers after one ring.
“Hey babe, was up?”
I take a deep breath to calm down but it’s useless. “I am leaving the house. I’ll be in Georgia’s early. Do you think you could come as early as you can?” I ask with heavy sobs.
“What’s wrong? Why are you leaving your house early? Was it your dad?” He asks with an upset tone.
“I am fine, would you come as soon as you can please?”
“I’ll be there in fifteen minutes. I am going to wrap something up.”
“No, I didn’t mean leave work now. I am sorry, go back to work. I will see you later.”
“I will be there in fifteen minutes.”
“I love you Chris.”
“I love you too, babe. I’ll meet you shortly.”
I probably should have not called and interrupt him at work. But I could use his company. I wrap my arms around myself to try and find warmth. I am happy the walk to Georgia’s is not long. I am glad the breakfast rush is almost over. I walk to the counter.
“Sammy, my dear. Did I forget and scheduled you?”
“Oh no,” I try to say as normal as possible.
“Where is your jacket? It’s cold outside.”
“I ran out the house without looking at the weather. I didn’t want to wake dad.”
“Let me get you some tea. Go on and sit at a table. Did you eat?”
“I’m ok.” I lie.
They all know what today is. They know about dad treating me horribly on this day. It’s the same thing every year. I walk to the table near the door. I sit and stare out the window. The tears roll down. A few minutes later Georgia brings a croissant and tea. I wipe my tears with my hand. I smile but say nothing. Ten minutes later the chime of the door gets my attention. Chris scans the diner. He spots me. He looks worried and practically runs to me.
“Oh babe,” he sits beside me. “You look cold. Come here.” He pulls me in for a hug. “Where is your jacket?”
I look at him willing myself to answer but no words come out. Instead a flood of fresh tears. I put my face on his chest and cry uncontrollably. He says nothing. He soothes my hair. We must have been like this for a lifetime. I finally calm down. Georgia makes her way to the table.
“Chris, would you like something to eat or drink?”
“No ma’am. How much do we owe you?”
“Oh, nothing child. You take care of Sammy. That’s payment enough. Sammy, you need to eat something.”
“I am ok Georgia,” I shift my head so our eyes can meet.
“If you change your mind just find me.”
“Thank you,” Chris says to Georgia. “Do you want to leave?”
“Yes please. I would like to see mom.”
“Ok, but we need to get you a jacket. You can’t be outside in a t-shirt.”
He takes his suit jacket and drapes it over me. He gets up, holds out his hand and helps me out the booth. I see Georgia give Chris an appreciative nod. We walk outside. Chris brought his driver. He looks at me.
“I didn’t want to get my car. Before we go see your mom, can we go to my apartment? I really would like to get you something to wear. I think you left a sweater last time you were over.”
I shake my head. The logical part of my brain knows this is the best course of action even though the other part of me wants to see mom.
“I promise we can leave right away. I want to change myself.”
“Ok,” I manage to say.
We walk to the car and get in. Chris moved in to the only high rise in town. It’s a luxuries building. He pretty much bought the top floor and had it converted into a penthouse. We get to the building and make our way to the elevator. We are both silent. He keeps me close. After a few minutes the elevator door reaches his floor.
“I am going to change. I should be right out.”
“I will be at the couch.” He gives me a gentle kiss.
“I am sorry babe. I wish I could take your pain away. I love you.”
“Thank you. I love you too.”
He leaves to his bedroom. I walk over to the couch. I see the oversize blanket I was using the other night. It makes me smile. I mentioned to Chris a couple of weeks back he should have a blanket on the couch. He bought one. It’s a red furry one. I wonder if it’s because I love red. Over a sudden I get cold. I sit and cover myself. It’s warm and comforting. I sit back and lay my head on the edge. I wake startled.
“Hey,” Chris says caressing my cheek.
“How long have I been sleeping?” I ask.
“About two hours.”
“I am so sorry. I dragged you out of work and…” I start saying.
“You were tired. I got some work done while you slept. How are you feeling?”
“A little better.” I lean in to him.
“You should probably eat.”
“I am not hungry.”
“Well I am. I would like for you to join me. You have to eat something, anything.”
“Ok.”
We walk to the kitchen. It’s filled with different things. All my favorites. He must have gone to Georgia’s.
“I wasn’t sure what you wanted to eat. I got a little of everything. Georgia thought you might like some of your favorite things.”
My eyes fill with tears. I pull him in for a hug. Could this man be any more perfect? “Thank you. You are amazing.”
“I know,” he teases making me giggle. “There is my girl. Let’s eat before it gets cold.”
“When did you go to Georgia’s?” I sit at the table.
“I called her. My driver picked up the food.” He pulls the chair beside me. “Are you going to tell me what happened earlier?”
“It’s not important anymore.”
“What did your dad say?”
“Nothing he hasn’t told me before.”
“Please talk to me.” He pleas.
“My mom died when I was little.”
“I know.”
“I never told you how. She died in a car crash. She was on her way to pick me up when a car ran her off the road. Dad blames me for her death.” I add quietly.
“That is a terrible thing to say to a child.”
“It was hard for me growing up. Eventually I learned it wasn’t my fault.”
“Of course, it wasn’t.” He pulls me and kisses my head. “I am sorry babe.”
“It’s fine. I should be used to it by now.”
“It’s not fine.”
“He is hurting. I understand the pain. I miss her every day. It just hurts and cuts me when he tells me is my fault.” I say my eyes getting watery again.
“I am sorry.” He squeezes my hand. I smile.
For the next twenty minutes we sit and eat. He talks. I mainly listen. I don’t talk. He doesn’t force me. It’s nice. Exactly what you need on a day like this one.
“Do you want to go visit your mom now?”
“Yes.”
“Let me get your sweater and we can go.”
“Thank you.” I gently kiss him. “You are an amazing man. I am so lucky.”
“I am the lucky one. Let’s go visit your mom.” He smiles. He pulls me in for a hug. He kisses the top of my head.
We go and see mom. He bought fresh flowers for her. We stay for about an hour before I am ready to leave. I walk to Chris who has been standing on the side giving me privacy. I love this man more than the air I breathe.
Sammy
It’s been a few days since mom’s death anniversary. Dad has been in a foul mood ever since. I haven’t spent time at home. I only go to sleep. I am exhausted. I lean against the counter at Georgia. I am oblivious to everything happening around me.
“Hey,” I hear Chris snap me from my inner monologue.
“Hi, what are you doing here? I thought you were working all day?”
“Babe, it’s almost six.”
“What?” Have I really been so out of it the hours passed without me knowing?
“Did you eat today?”
“I am trying to wrap my head around the fact it’s almost six.” I walk around to him.
“You work too hard. Come here.” He holds out his hand. “I am worried about you.”
“I am fine, just a little tired.”
“I would be if I was working non-stop two jobs for the last week. Let me take you home.” I stiffen. I don’t want to go home and deal with dad. “Why don’t we go to my place?” He asks. I release the breath and tension I have been holding.
“That sounds great. Let me tell Georgia I am leaving. I’ll go and get my things.”
“I’ll be here, waiting.” He smiles.
For a moment I stay frozen looking at the amazing man standing in front of me. He brings peace to my life. I feel loved and safe. How many people can say that? I smile and walk to Georgia. After a few minutes, I walk back to where I left Chris standing. I can’t help but smile. Despite everything, he is still here.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Always. Let’s go home.”
The words jolt inside. Home. A simple word. Yet with so much depth, weight. It doesn’t take long to get to Chris’s place.
“I want to talk to you about something.” He says as we walk in the building.
“What?” I ask nervous.
“I’ll tell you upstairs.”
“Why would you do that? Why would you say I want to talk but later?” I ask confused. He laughs. “Don’t laugh.” There is humor in his eyes.
“I am sorry. When you are angry a v forms on your forehead. It’s cute.” He pulls me in for a hug while we wait for the elevator. “It’s nothing bad I promise.” He adds kissing the top of my head. We are upstairs a few minutes later. He is radiating happiness.
“Are you going to tell me?” I smile, curious and inpatient as he opens the door.
“Almost,” he says smiling.
“Chris, you are killing me here.” I lightly punch his arm.
“Ouch that hurt.” He teases.
“Please.” I say plea.
He takes a hold of my hand and walks me to the couch. He is quiet. I might even say nervous. There is tension on his shoulders. I am scared now.
“Chris, you are scaring me. What is wrong?” This is it. He is going to break up with me. He realized this relationship is more than he bargained for.
“I want you to move in with me.”
Not what I was expecting. A loaded statement. I was raised right. I can’t move in with a man. I am not that kind of girl.
“Chris, I…” I start saying.
“What I mean, I want to marry you now. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I don’t see the point in waiting. We are both adults.”
“I don’t know what to say.” I say honestly.
“Say yes. We can get married by the end of the week. You don’t have to deal with your dad anymore.”
“I don’t want to get married because you don’t want me to deal with my dad.” I say quietly. I stand and walk to the window. He follows me.
“It’s not what I meant. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. We have waited long enough. No point in waiting. There isn’t anything keeping you here.” I weight his words. I know how I feel. I don’t want to be with anyone other than him but it’s so soon. I haven’t even met his parents. He senses my hesitation. “This is about you and me. No one else. Do you love me?” I do. There is no doubt in my mind. “Samantha, I am in love with you.” I throw myself at him.
