“That sounds exhausting. How was Italy?”
I exhaled deeply. “As good as you’d expect.”
“So it was bad?” Dillon probed.
“The medical aspect was good, but that aside, she told me she hated me,” I admitted, feeling the weight of those words.
“Hate is another word for love,” Dillon offered optimistically.
“I’m—” I paused, struggling to articulate my words.
“I know, but give it time. Once those eyes still sparkle the same way when you meet yours, then you’ve got hope.”
“Hope is a tricky thing, but I guess so,” I replied thoughtfully.
“Have you ever wondered if she moved on?” Dillon asked cautiously.
“I’m not suicidal, so no,” I admitted bitterly. “I saw a guy there kiss her cheek.”
“Is this guy still alive?” Dillon’s tone turned serious.
“Unfortunately,” I replied, a flicker of frustration in my voice.
The conversation hung with unspoken truths and unresolved emotions. Dillon understood my pain and my drive to reclaim what I’d lost, no matter the obstacles.
“Unfortunately,” I repeated with a sigh. “But seeing him kiss her cheek and fucking hold her waist sent me off the deep end.”
“I get it. It’s not easy,” Dillon replied sympathetically. “But you are a good person, so try not to harm anyone.”
“Getting soft?”
“I’llneverbe nice to you again, Ronan,” he noted, “Do what you have to do, but do not lose yourself in the process. She’s my cousin, and you’re my best friend, my brother, so there is no picking sides, but the quicker you both decide if you want this or not, the better it will be.”
“I hope so,” I mumbled.
“Stop hoping and start trying,” Dillon encouraged. “Show her you’re serious and willing to fight for her.”
“I know what I need to do,” I agreed, feeling a surge of determination. “I’m going to let my heart and wallet do the talking.”
“You know her best,” he emphasized emphatically. “It takes time and patience, and you owe her that, but in the process, don’t hurt her and do not lose yourself.Please.”
“Thank you. In other words, how are you? How’s your newfound love?” I asked, listening as he let out a heavy, drawn-out sigh.
“You remember when you told me not to sleep with the majority of those women?”
A chuckle slipped out of me. “I do. Why?”
“I should’ve listened,” he groaned, raking a hand through his hair. “Because now, every woman I’ve ever been with is showing up out of nowhere, practically sabotaging my relationship. But I’m not letting her slip through my hands. It’s early, but… she’s it for me.”
My friends often label me as the most emotional of the group, but it gives me joy to see them happy, especially Dillon. His life has had upheavals similar to mine, and he’s been caring for himself and his sister since they were quite young. Seeing him go through so much hurt and pain was disheartening to watch. But hearing him talk about loving someone and opening himself up to love made me truly happy for him. The bond Dillon and I share, along with the bond we all have, makes them more like brothers to me than anything else.
“Problems have a way of setting themselves in the way of happiness, but all will be well,” I reminded him. “Take it easy, one step at a time, and remember you may be an ass, but you’re a damn good person.”
“Thank you, Ro. I really do appreciate it,” he responded. “I’ve got to run, but remember, I’m here for you. We’ll figure this out, alright?”
“Thanks, Dillon,” I replied gratefully. “I appreciate it. Talk soon.”
“Take care, Ro,” he acknowledged warmly before ending the call.
