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There is. “I didn’t want to hurt you.” It occurs to me all at once. “I wanted to keep you closer, but I didn’t want to hurt you. And I didn’t want to hurt more later. I told myself that was logic, but…” I’m as illogical as everyone else. Sometimes, at least.
“So your left arm belongs to me.”
What is he getting at? “Is there a tattoo artist waiting in the office?”
“No.” He smiles. “I didn’t specify a tattoo.”
That’s true.
“I believe there’s a traditional use for the left arm. Well, the left hand.” He pulls something from his pocket, a velvet ring box.
No.
He wouldn’t.
That’s crazy.
Too crazy, even for him.
He doesn’t drop to one knee, but he does open the box and advance the slide, which readsMarriagein big, pink letters.
“I believe this would be fair, under the terms of our agreement,” he says.
“If you want to be technical.”
“And I know you do.”
I do. I can’t help but smile. “Are you asking?”
“Asking? No. You’ve already agreed. And it’s a little early for a marriage proposal. But since I could force the issue, I believe I have the upper hand.”
He does. Damn, he’s good.
“I have a counter proposal.” He taps the screen again.
A picture of the New York City skyline appears on screen.
“Come back with me.”
“To New York?”
“You’d love it,” he says. “Give it six months. If you hate it, leave, no questions asked. I won’t fight you on it. Or insist I still control your left arm.”
“Generous.”
“If you love it.” He looks me in the eyes. “You stay for a while. Maybe not forever. But for a while.”
“Why would I do that?”
“Besides honoring your agreement?” He smiles. “I’m glad you asked.” He taps the button to the next slide.
Reasons Why Deanna Huntington and River Beau
Belong Together
1)Neighbors already know how to coexist
2)Deanna’s fierce logic complements River’s artistic impulses
