Page 111 of Capri

We need to have a conversation about what happens when he goes back to Capri.

I know that. I just think both of us have been avoiding it because we finally let ourselves have each other again after so long.

Why can’t good things ever last?

Collie can see the hesitation written across my face. “Holy shit. You love him, don’t you?”

“What? No. I don’t love him.”

The bewilderment coming from her should be concerning. She’s having an epiphany, and it’s about me. “Oh, babe. You do. How can you not see it?”

Maybe I’m in denial? Fuck, I don’t know. All Idoknow is that my chest hurts when we’re away from each other, and nothing else matters when we’re together.

But does that mean I love him?

“Cols, I don’t know what I’m feeling, okay? This is too much, too soon.” Heavy emotions build up inside of me.

“Not to sound like a broken record or anything, Capri, but love is love. You can’t fight it, can’t predict it, you just have to accept it. You and Jones are grown adults who are mature enough to decide for yourselves what’s ‘too soon.’ After everything you’ve been through, I think you’re warranted loving someone as quickly as you’d like.”

How did I get so lucky to have her as a sister? She always knows exactly what to say when I need it the most.

“I don’t know what to do with these feelings. I’m terrified that he’ll leave and I’ll never hear from him again. For once, I’m not scared to let myself love him; I trust him too much. It’s the aftermath that scares me.”

“This is why you guys need to have a conversation, babe. Don’t assume he’ll leave you if you’ve never asked what’s next.”

“I know. It’s hard not to, though. I’m an overthinker.”

I make quick work changing into the last dress—a baby blue one.

Collie’s gasp startles me. “Wow. That’s the one,” Collie says as I turn to look at myself in the mirror. “You look stunning.”

The silk fabric hugs my curves with a halter neck and a midi-length. But the best part is by far the back. With a low scoop, half of my back is revealed. It’s sexy yet still remains modest enough for a wedding.

“Damn,” I exhale. “I look hot.” I laugh and Collie joins me, chuckling loudly. “Yeah, you do.”

She walks behind me and pulls me in for a hug. “Talk to him. I have a feeling he’s thinking the same things you are. Make it work for each other.”

“How’d you get to be so smart when it comes to relationships?”

Collie grins and shrugs. “Honestly, I have no idea. I should start charging for my services, though. Shouldn’t I?”

Maybe she should.I’ve added so much wealth to my life this year just by saying yes to things. Collie is the reason for that. “Thanks, Cols. For everything.”

“Always.”

* * *

Capri:

I have a question.

Jones:

Yes.

Jones:

The answer is yes.