Page 131 of Bad at Love
“That’s easy for you to say.” I exhale a cloud of smoke. “Did you ever have that one big love that obliterated the rest?”
Her face crumbles, just slightly. I immediately feel bad for saying anything.
“Yes,” she says, voice low and raspy. “My first husband. Cooper. He died.”
“I’m so sorry.”
“Yes. So am I.”
“How did he die?”
“Car accident. Wasn’t wearing a seatbelt. The impact killed him instantly.” She pauses, takes a drag, her fingers shaking slightly. “I had many lovers after him, husbands even, but no one compared to Cooper. It was like we shared the same soul but it was much bigger and brighter than that. Like we were…starmates. Made in the stars. Found each other here on earth. It was that kind of love. I never had it again and that’s okay. It really is, because I was lucky enough to have it to begin with. My only regret is that it took me too long to realize what he was to me. I was young and dumb, ignored his advances forever until I finally gave in…he died a year into our marriage. I wish we had more time together. But even so, I have zero regrets over loving him. More than that, I’m forever thankful.”
She ashes again and fixes her eyes on me, razor sharp. “Which is why, if and when you realize what you have with Marina, you need to hold on and never let go. Because life is short and love needs to be indulged often.”
She stands up as those words settle over me. “I have something for you.”
The smoke follows her as she leaves the living area and disappears down the hall.
My eyes take in the room in a quick, absent way. Framed movie posters adorn the walls, old framed black and white photos and random knickknacks clutter up every available free space. But my mind is reeling over what she just said.
It pains me to think I’m realizing everything a little too late.
When she comes back in the room she’s carrying a small tin of what looks to be Altoids.
I get to my feet and she gives it to me.
“This is for you. Don’t open it now. Don’t lose it. Don’t show anyone. Think about Marina and what you want and what she means to you. Do all that first. Then have a look.”
“This isn’t a Magic 8 Ball, is it?”
She gives me a look. “Don’t be foolish. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to have a lie down.”
I stare down at the Altoids and shake the tin but I don’t hear a thing.
She’s staring at me expectantly, brow raised. You know, to leave.
So I do.
“Is Marina really out with her friend?” I ask, pausing at the door.
“Yes, she really is.”
“She’s not home?”
“No.”
“Then can you do me a favor?”
She narrows her eyes at me but there’s a slight smile to her lips. “I thought I just did you one.”
“It will only take a few minutes.”
CHAPTER TWENTY
LAZ
“MERCY IN YOU”
