Page 119 of The Things That Hold Us

I nod, then remember the package.

“Oh, what was the package you had?”

Cassie stands, holding a hand out and helping me up.

“The UPS guy was on his way up at the same time I was, so I just grabbed it from him. I’m not sure what it is.”

We walk out to my kitchen and I see a large box sitting on my table.

“What in the world? I haven't ordered anything?”

Cassie shrugs, and I grab a knife from the drawer.

There's no name on it or anything giving any hints as to what it is.

I pull the box open, and packing peanuts start flying out. I pull out bubble wrap, and uncover a thick styrofoam packaging.

“What is this?” I ask, more to myself, but Cassie shrugs.

I slide the styrofoam out, and it's a decent weight. I have zero clue what this could be.

I pull the top off, and my jaw drops.

“Oh my god.” I say, tears springing my eyes.

God dammit, I'm tired of crying so much.

“What is it?” Cassie asks, trying to catch a glimpse.

“A tea set..” I whisper.

“Oh.” Cassie says.

I pull the delicate teapot out, and set it on my table, then the matching cups.

Cassie's hand flies up to her mouth. “Are those..”

“Marigolds..” I whisper, my voice cracking. “It's a tea set with marigolds on it.”

Tears pour down my face, and I can't stop them.

He had to have known this was coming today, and he let me tell him to leave. He left with zero arguments. And I let him.

“Charlie?”

“Logan.” I say, as if that's an answer. “He sent me this and I just let him leave."

Cassie watches me for a minute, “What are you going to do?”

I start pacing. “I dont know.” it comes out as a sob, and I feel my heart breaking. But I need to take the time and process all of this. I need time with my thoughts, to figure out what I should do.

“The hole Sam left is still fresh, and I need time to process these new feelings. Feelings that are for a different man. And I know, I know Sam would want me to be happy, but I just..” Ipause, taking in a deep breath, “I need to process it all without Logan's presence.”

Cassie frowns, but nods her head and says, “Ok babe. You know I support whatever decision you make. If this is what you need.”

“Thank you.” I say as I wipe my face, “I’m just going to focus on my shop, and getting it back up and running.”

“Do you need anything from me?” She asks

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