“You know I’d do anything for you, love.”
“I know. We’d better get on the road.”
Grabbing the handle on the roller bag Aria would use as a carry-on, Corinna said, “Make sure you have your passport. I was rushing but I’m pretty sure I put in it there. Your laptop and charger are in here already. Not sure if you need anything for work.”
Aria looked around her room, gathering a few work folders and her journal, putting them in the bag, and confirming she had her passport.
“I feel like I’m missing something.”
Corinna chuckled, “I called Santo. He’ll meet you at the airport.”
“Santo! I forgot to call him. You really are a lifesaver. Good thing you know where everything is in my house.”
“Wasn’t hard. You’re the most organized person I know. Oh, you’ll want to call your parents, too.”
Nodding, Aria answered, “Yes, but I might wait until I’m there.”
Grabbing all her belongings, they hurried to the car, Corinna insisting that she drive. Texting Santo and letting him know she was headed for the airport, Aria was grateful for Corinna’s offer.
His text came immediately.
Santo:Are you okay?
Aria:Yes, no. Maybe. Let’s talk when I see you. I love you.
Santo:Love you too. Travel safe. Can’t wait to see you, sis.
Putting her phone back in her purse, she watched as the familiar sights of her city buzzed by as Corinna navigated the streets toward the highway.
She had never done anything like this. Leaving impulsively, no plan, no itinerary. And in the hour it took to get to the Naples airport, she had changed her mind twice, wondering what she was doing.
When they pulled up to the departure drop off area, Corinna got out and helped with her suitcase.
They stood looking at one another, Aria fighting back tears.
“What am I doing?” Aria said when she was pulled into a final hug.
Stepping back and wiping a tear from Aria’s face, Corinna answered, “Making decisions for yourself. It’s time.”
Shaking her head, Aria answered, “No, I’m hiding.”
“Thendon’thide. You’re stepping away from this relationship to give both of you time to decide what you want. Taking time away from a job I know you don’t really want to do anymore. You’re at a crossroads, love. Decide whatyouwant.”
“I want him. I love him,” Aria whispered.
“And he wants you. But take this time to do something for you. Write, see Santo, get lost in Madrid. Drink Spanish wine and eat tapas. Find yourself, Aria. Then you’ll know what you’re willing to give to Alex.”
Drawing her into another strong embrace, Aria whispered, “When did you get so smart?”
“I may not have ever found what you have, twice now, you showoff. But I’ve learned about love from watching you. Now, go! Don’t miss that plane. I love you.”
“I love you, too. I’ll text when I get there. And Corinna... it is worth it.”
Aria grabbed her luggage and ran to the terminal.
She hurried through security and to her gate. The weight of the last few hours was making her feel like she was suffocating.
Corinna’s words had sliced through the fog and brought a clarity that shook her to the core. She had done the right thing in walking away so Alex could pursue this project, but she was tired of hiding, of just existing.
