Page 39 of Life, Love, and Other Messes

Dr. Benson was quiet for a moment, then shook her head. I was waiting for some horrible news when she said it. “I swear I know you from somewhere.”

“Could be. I’ve been going here for years.”

“I just started here in June. Did you…No, never mind.”

I could tell from her face. My jaw went tight. “What?”

“Did you date Veronica Hamish?”

“Yeah, that was me.”

“I’m married to Kit,” Dr. Benson said. She’d hung around with us for a while. “May I ask what happened with Veronica? You two were together for a long time, weren’t you?”

I kept my voice nonchalant. “Yeah, a while. She went in another direction, and I guess I like where I am.” I decided I’d keep that response for the next time. Everyone seemed to know Veronica.

“Ah. Amicable breakup, then?”

“Very.”

“I’m glad. Do you know Ally?”

I nodded. “I’ve known her forever.”

“They’re so good together. The four of us just went to New Orleans.”

I smiled darkly. “Couples trip. Nice. Well, if we’re done, I need to get going.”

She jumped up. “Of course. Sorry…I shouldn’t have gotten off topic.”

“No, it’s absolutely fine. It’s amazing how small this city is.”

“It really is. Good to officially meet you!”

I nodded and shook her hand again. “Let’s go, old man.” I didn’t realize I’d used Lisa’s name for him at first. It almost made everything better.

Ollie couldn’t get out the door fast enough. He pulled me until he was right at the edge of the office while I paid, then turned and gave me a jerk as I put my credit card away. “Well, that was lovely,” I said once we were back on the sidewalk. “And by the way, you’re perfect just the way you are. Let’s get a treat.”

Ollie jumped into the passenger seat and gave my cheek a big lick.

I was irritated the rest of the afternoon. I tried to write a little, but I was distracted. I finally went out and mowed the lawn even though it was mostly brown and didn’t need it. While I was busy, I realized I hadn’t texted Veronica since I’d caught her at the grocery store. As far as she knew, I had no idea she was in town.

I actually stopped what I was doing, took my gloves off, and got my phone out.

Hey…Hadn’t heard from you for a while. How are things going? Fine here.

I stuffed my phone back in my pocket, feeling shaky and mad at myself for having to do that. I didn’t know if it was a fuck you move or if I really missed her and wanted to get a text back.

It didn’t come. Complete silence. I figured she was still at work, so I cleaned up, then went in and perused my fridge and freezer for dinner. There was nothing attractive. I was about to head out to a restaurant when my phone buzzed on the counter where I’d left it. Although it made me sick, I jumped at it.

It was Lisa. Much better than any of the alternatives. Hey. Have you eaten?

No. You want to go out and get something?

I just stopped at Romano’s and have more food than I can eat in a week.

Excellent. Your place or mine?

I’m on my way.