Page 51 of Crystal Iris
My cheeks flush. “We are… talking.”
“That’s it?”
“Well, as you can see, I’m still engaged. Talking is all there can be.”
“If you say so.”
“You and Ted seem… happy together,” I say, trying to change the subject. As I look around, I notice her bedroom is so clean and organized, it makes my home—both homes—look like disasters. Even with Aaron hiring cleaners, they just pile my things in corners. There are no piles anywhere in this room, in this house.
“We had our share of troubles, but we’re happy now.”
“What’s it like to be married?” I genuinely want to know her opinion; I haven’t met many happy married couples. With my family and Aaron’s parents, we’re doomed to rely on their examples.
“It’s the best and hardest thing you’ll ever do, if you marry the right person.”
“And how did you know… Ted was the one?”
“When a lifetime together doesn’t seem long enough.”
She sees I’m thinking about my own life and says, “You’ll know once you find him, if you haven’t already.”
I smile at her, and we make our waydownstairs.
Lara’s words swirl in my head when I find Aaron by the pool.
“It’s usually me who needs fresh air,” I tell him.
He attempts a smile.
“What’s wrong?” I ask, noticing the worry on his face.
“Do you think this will be us one day? Celebrating five years of marriage and still looking as happy as they are?”
I sigh, not wanting to have this conversation here. “I don’t know.” It’s all I can say.
He looks back at me. “Are you happy with me?”
I’m not ready for this talk. “Yes, of course.” I kiss him lightly.
“Sometimes I get a feeling this is too good to be true, you and me.”
“You deserve to be happy, Aaron.” I mean it.Even if it’s not with me.
We get distracted by someone yelling at us to come inside—they’re giving a toast.
After the party, Aaron falls asleep in the living room. I leave him there, knowing the couch is as comfortable as the bed. I cover him with a blanket and am glad to be alone with my thoughts. I stare at the ceiling, pondering the day’s conversation, when I check my phone—the habit stronger than ever.
What are you doing?I read Hoyt’s text.
Just came back from a party,I reply.
Good time?he answers immediately.
I’m not a huge fan of them.
Of parties or people?
Both.
