“Greer, there won’t be more to talk about tomorrow. I’ll see you on Monday.”
He says his goodbye, but he doesn’t move. In fact, he steps closer, one hand reaching for me before he pulls it back.
“We can slow down,” I suggest.
I hear him loud and clear, okay? But maybe this is why he feels like he can’t have it all. No one ever stuck around to fight for him when his mind starts to think the worst. I know I can’t change his mind tonight, maybe not even tomorrow or next week, but I can wait. He’s worth it.
“No, that— Greer, this whole thing… I can’t lose you.”
“So you’re going to push me away instead. Isn’t that the same thing?”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“If we stop now, any feelings that may be here will fade faster and easier.”
“Maybe. Maybe not.”
“Greer, stop arguing with me,” he says on an almost laugh. “I’m trying to end this thing.”
“I know.” I cross my arms. “You’re doing a shit job too.”
“Greer,” he groans. “You’re so?—”
“Stubborn? I know.” I step off my porch toward him and cup his cheek before pressing to my toes to kiss him. He lets me too.
When I drop back to my heels, he says, “You deserve better than me.”
“Let me make that choice on my own.”
“I’m trying to protect you.”
“No, you’re running beforeyouget hurt.”
“Damn it, Greer. I’m trying to do the right thing here.”
“Well, stop. You don’t get to decide this one on your own.”
Instead of replying, he steps back.
“I’m sorry, Greer. I really am. I just can’t do this.”
He needs to turn and walk away. He needs to put space between us, but he doesn’t. It’s like he’s waiting for me to keep arguing with him. Like if we stand here just a little longer, one of us will do or say something that might change his mind.
As much as I would love to be that someone for him, the only person who can do that is himself.
“All right,” I say and step back. “Just know that I’ll be right here, waiting, when you can.”
Some people might think I’m crazy or a silly woman to wait for a man, but they’re wrong. If it’s the right man, he’ll be worth the wait.
If I’ve learned anything this summer, it’s that you can’t rush falling in love.
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
SIMON
I did the right thing.
