When I look into his eyes, I see him imagining a future with me and it scares the crap out of me.
“T-Thanks,” I stutter, and extract myself from his arms, returning to my previous position. He sighs heavily beside me.
I’m hurting Jace.
I’m hurting Owen.
I’m hurting myself.
So much hurt—how’s there room for anything else?
“And this is the MET,” Owen proclaims, sliding out of the taxi.
I stare up at the imposing building and all the steps leading up to it. It’s beautiful but different than I expected. I can’t really say how so, but it is.
I frown, thinking of how I should be here with Jace.
Exploring the city with Jace.
Going to restaurants with Jace.
Laughing and smiling with Jace.
We’ve always talked about the places we’d love to go together, and this was one.
But I’m here
with Owen of all people.
I press my eyes closed, fighting tears as I realize what a slap in the face it must’ve been to Jace.
I have to admit to myself, if I was in his position and he was leaving me to go stay with an ex for an unknown amount of time, I’d break up with him.
I don’t deserve him. I don’t.
Owen grabs my hand and I pull mine away so fast I nearly fall to the ground.
“Sorry,” he says, hurt flashing across his face. “I was trying to get your attention, you zoned out.”
“I’m a little jumpy,” I gasp, cradling my hand like it’s injured.
“Would you like to go inside?” he asks, nodding toward the building.
I hesitate but nod. “Yeah.”
He starts up the steps and I follow him. He pays for our tickets and we begin walking around.
I’m fascinated by everything, but I try not to linger too long on one thing, because if I’m honest with myself, I want to get this day over so I can have some time alone
When we finish, we catch another taxi and go to Central Park.
I feel comfort beneath the green canopy of trees. There are tons of people, of course, but somehow it still remains peaceful.
There’s plenty of shade, so it’s cooler than walking the streets.
Owen walks silently beside me. The air is thick between us and I get the impression he’s fighting saying something. I hope whatever it is he keeps bottled up forever. I’m not sure I can bear hearing it. There’s only so much one person can take and I’ve already been through so much.
After we’ve walked about a mile, Owen sighs. “I’m hungry, are you?”