“I just did.”
“You should have said it earlier.”
“Yes.”
I let the irritation exist, then agreed.
“No secret training.”
“Agreed.”
“No using my race as motivation to punish yourself.”
“Agreed.”
“If you decide to race, you tell me before you register.”
“Agreed.”
Dani smiled slightly.
“You have conditions.”
“I always have conditions.”
“I love that about you.”
Lovearrived—not a declaration, only a phrase, still powerful. Dani heard herself and did not retract it. Neither did I force it larger.
“Good,” I said.
“Good?”
“I am emotionally depleted.”
She laughed.
“Very romantic.”
“My legs are failing.”
“Lie down.”
“I need to shower.”
“Later.”
“That is unhygienic.”
“You finished a half marathon. Take ten minutes.”
I lay back. Dani moved beside me. No pillow barrier. No rule. Her arm came around my waist. I rested my head against her shoulder.
“This is not the date,” I said.
“No.”
“The date requires actual clothing.”
