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“You just think you can’t. You’re a strong woman, Kate Harper, and you can get through this. First heartbreaks are always the hardest, but it doesn’t mean you have to run away from your life and home to heal. You can make a fresh start in New York. Change your routine, change your habits, and before you know it, your life will be exactly how you envisioned it would be. Besides, I’m only a two-and-a-half-hour drive away and I’ll always have a room ready and waiting for you when you need it. You are welcome here anytime and as much as you want to be here.”
“Thanks, Rose. I love you.”
“I love you too, dear.”
I took everything Rose said to heart and decided that I needed to go back to New York to live my life. I liked it there and my father was only a short distance away. The next morning, I packed my bags and Rose walked with me to the train station.
“Goodbye, my darling Kate.” She smiled as she placed her hands on my face. “Have a safe trip home and call me or text when you get there.”
A smile crossed my lips. “I will, and I promise to keep in touch.”
“You better, because I consider you a daughter and I’ll worry.”
* * *
Gabriel
I couldn’t bring myself to drive home after Kate and I had words, so I spent the rest of the day sitting by the river, thinking back on our conversation. She hated me and I didn’t blame her. I was foolish to think that the minute she saw me, she’d run into my arms and tell me that she forgave me. She said she forgave me, but I knew deep down she only said that to make me leave.
The next morning, I checked out of the hotel and drove to the bed and breakfast to see her one last time. I didn’t come to try and get her back because I knew she didn’t want that. I just needed to see her one last time for closure, because after today, I’d never see her again. That was what she wanted, and I was going to respect her wishes no matter how bad it killed me inside.
I walked through the door and found the older woman dusting the coffee table in the living area.
“Hello,” I nervously spoke.
She turned, and when she looked at me, a small smile swept over her lips.
“Mr. Quinn, I thought you went home.”
“I’m on my way now, but I need to see Kate one last time. Can you tell me which room she’s staying in?”
“I’m afraid she’s left already.”
“What? Where did she go?”
“Look at that.” She looked over at the clock that hung on the wall. “It’s lunch time.” She smiled. I think it would be in your best interest to join me. You shouldn’t drive home on an empty stomach. I made a tuna noodle casserole and some fresh bread.”
I got the feeling she wanted to talk to me, so I politely accepted.
“Sure. That sounds good.”
“Excellent. Go have a seat in the dining room and I’ll bring in the food.”
I did as she asked and took a seat at a small round table that sat two. I couldn’t believe Kate had already left. That right there was an indication that she wanted to get away from me as quickly as possible.
“By the way, my name is Rose.” She smiled as she set down my plate in front of me.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Rose.”
I placed the white cloth napkin on my lap as she sat down across from me.
“Do you know where Kate went?” I asked.
“I sent her back home to New York.”
“Really?” I asked with excitement in my voice.
“You need to listen to me, Gabriel. If you want her back, you need to give her time and space.”
