Giving her beautiful face one last glance, I say, “I w-won’t take more of your t-time.”
I’m already walking toward the main door when she throws her arms around me.
“Thank you so much for coming, Zane,” she whispers as I stand still, hands resting by my side, unable to do anything.
Her hug ends too soon, and she leaves me wanting more.
I nod and march down the steps of her building.
I turn on the ignition of my car and drive toward my home, feeling more empty and confused than before I started the ride to Zach’s penthouse earlier this evening.
I was lying on my porch when my nephews told me they’re having a slumber party at Zach’s. I thought spending time with them would distract me, but that hadn’t happened, so I went to Vienna’s apartment with a pizza and every intention of telling her that she doesn’t have to even think about my insane proposal.
But now how many times has she said she wants to marry me for my company, my family…but not me?
I reach home, but before I can step out of the car, my phone chimes, alerting me of an incoming text. My hands shake as I read the words on my screen.
Vienna: I don’t need to sleep on it. I’m in.
* * *
I turn on the coffee machine after a restless night. Sleep played hide-and-seek with me, and my brain was busy making a list of things I need to do.
Get a marriage license.
Introduce Vienna to my family.
Get her on my insurance.
Send her reports for a second opinion.
Make the house comfortable for her.
And the list goes on…
I pour myself a black coffee, and my mind goes back to Vienna. This time, the coffee. I can’t hold back my smile while taking a sip of the straight black coffee.
Zane: Are you still in?
I text her with trembling hands. Last night, I didn’t reply to her text because I don’t want her to make a decision out of fear. I want her to think through it.
I’m still lost in my thoughts when my phone rings.
It’s her.
“H-hello.”
“Did you not agree last night because you thought I’d change my mind?” Her voice is incredulous.
“I d-don’t want you to make a has-sty decision,” I reply carefully, confused by her surprise.
“I thought you were no longer interested. I cried the whole night, Zane. Don’t you ever do this to me again!”
Fuck! My heart clenches when she sniffs.
“I…I’m s-so sorry.” I pluck on my hair, cursing myself for the torture I put her through.
“Your presence is the only thing that’s keeping me sane. You’re the only hope that’s telling me that I won’t be lying in the hospital alone. That you’ll cry for me if I die.”