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I have a sick feeling in my chest, but I refuse to give into it. Rushing back to the bedroom, I survey the vanity dresser and spot all her lotions and hair things there.
A memory of her smiling as she explained the difference between hair moisturizers, deep conditioners, leave-in and gel pops into my head.
Elizabeth made it seem like she couldn’t live without her hair products. There’s no way she would have left them here if she’d run away.
Relieved, I perch on the edge of the bed and call her.
It goes to voicemail.
Anxiety chews me up like a dog with its favorite toy.
I dial Elizabeth again.
I’m trying not to panic, but I can’t help thinking about last night. She unleashed something deep and dark inside her. Came at me like we were going down with the ship.
There was something panicky, almost desperate about our lovemaking. As if we were stepping off the edge of a cliff. As if she thought it was the last time she could hold me.
I curse.
That frenzy is the source of my unease. But I thought I handled that.
As frantic as she was last night, I made sure to slow her down. I took the time to savor the moment. To really show her what I felt about her. I came just short of saying the words, knowing that an ‘I love you’ in the middle of such a rowdy, passionate embrace wouldn’t have the same impact.
I didn’t want her questioning whether I’m being genuine. So I promised myself I’d tell her in the morning. After she calmed down.
Maybe that was a mistake. I should have gone with my gut and said the words.
What if I don’t get the chance again?
Desperate to shake off my apprehension, I call Mom and check up on Steph.
“She’s doing much better,” Mom says, a smile in her voice.
“What did the doctors say?”
“They’re prepping for surgery at your request.” Mom sighs. “I’m glad Eldrina’s money is good for something.”
“Me too.”
“Steph is excited.”
“About the surgery?”
“Oh heavens no. It’s about those matchmakers again. She’s trying to hustle a visit to the Make It Marriage office.”
“What did Ina say?”
“She’s being vague, but Steph is very good at negotiations. Plus she has the advantage of being the most adorable little girl in the world. I’m eager to see which one of them will break first.”
“Tell Steph I’ll personally bring the matchmakers over to her when she’s better.”
Mom chuckles. “Do you even know those people, Brogan?”
She has no idea.
I sigh. “If Steph wants it, I’ll get it done.”
“I’m so happy. Steph is going to get her surgery. You’re in love and smiling again.” Her voice gets tearful. “My family is doing so well.”
