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“That’s because I was married to someone like you before,” he said.
His statement made me instantly think of Jack. “I miss Jack’s messages,” I confessed, referring to his dead husband, a man I’d never met but had communicated with in spirit.
“I miss him too,” Perry admitted. “What are your plans now?”
“I think I’ll head to Virginia Beach and stay with Mom and Dad for a few days before returning to school to graduate by summer,” I said.
“Do me a favor and say hi to Maggie and Alex for me.”
“I wish you could visit them, Perry,” I said. “My parents still speak of you often.”
“I wish I could too, kiddo,” he said. “So, one question, Chad. Are you sure you and Clint are finished?” he asked. “I mean, the guy obviously loves you. He shows up here like he’s left you, but he talks about you nonstop.”
“I think so,” I admitted. “Unfortunately, he doesn’t love me enough to admit that we’re a couple, Perry. I don’t want to live like that,” I stated. “You know how I am.”
“That I do, my friend. I just worry about you is all.”
“Maybe Clint and I are on different paths. Have you thought about that possibility?” I asked, reminding him of my affinity for following the spiritual side of my mind and heart.
“I’d never question your intuition regarding your path,” he joked. “God knows you and Jack had a connection. Like Jack, you’re otherworldly in your approach to life. You proved that many a time.”
“Well, my friend, maybe it’s time I reached out to Jack again,” I declared, laughing at my joke. “Jack helped you, so maybe it’s my turn.”
“He’s dead, Chad,” he reminded me.
“That’s what you said two years ago, Mr. Jackson.”
Perry let out a laugh. “Well, I still love you,” he spoke softly. “And I’m sorry, buddy.”
“I love you, too. Give my best to Lucas and thanks for reaching out.”
“Since you’re probably gonna go there anyway, tell Jack I said hi as well,” Perry added.
“You just did,” I quipped. “But I’ll be sure to again when we next speak.”
“There’s the Chad I know and love,” he said. “Welcome back.”
We hung up after a bit more banter and one more I love you. I adored Perry and was happy to have helped Jack lead him to Lucas. Perhaps Jack hadn’t led me to Clint like I’d thought he had.
Maybe Jack would show up again and offer guidance. I knew I’d welcome it.
CHAPTER ONE: Chad
Six Months Later
“You’re not yourself, honey,” Mom said, stroking the back of my neck while I leaned forward in a deck chair, face in my hands, and ignoring the beautiful beach in front of us. “Where’s Mr. Sunshine been lately?”
“He’s lost, Mom,” I replied.
“You’re only twenty-two, kiddo. You can’t lose that wonderful boy that quick.”
I leaned back in the chair and let out a long sigh, wiping my eyes. “I didn’t see this breakup coming,” I whispered, catching a cry from escaping my throat. “I was way off on this one, Mom.”
“I know you think that, baby, but I don’t believe for a moment that you’ve lost any of your skills when it comes to life and love,” she began. “In fact, I’d bet this is a teaching moment for you.”
“I wanted one great love, Mom. One,” I stated, turning toward her. She wiped tears from my eyes and pulled me in for a hug. “I truly thought Clint was that person.”
“I know you did,” she agreed. “Dad and I figured you had as well, but guess what, honey?” I pulled away from her and met her eyes before she finished. “Life has thrown you another curve. Just like when David died and then again when you met Perry. Look how you helped Perry through his grief and the way you were there for him. The two of you healed together and now you’re close friends. You should be proud of that.”
