Page 104 of The Cruiser
“Can you talk to her for me?” I ask, half-joking. I’m keeping Mother at bay for a looong time. Until the next Presidential election if possible.
“Anyway,” Derek says, brushing hair out of his eyes. Still not cut. “I should get my files. I have a meeting with my accountant in Van Nyus at seven.”
“It’s good to see you,” I say, tightening my robe belt.
He kisses my cheek. “Good to see you too, V.”
When you’ve been together with someone for so long, it’s hard to see yourself without them. Hard to define yourself without them. Derek and I are on different paths now, but it’s for the better. In Monaco, I caught a glimpse of who my future self might be. Whatever the next step is, the next phase, I’m ready for it.
I’ll do it on my terms, and it will be okay.
Derek turns for his office and then stops to look over his shoulder with a funny smile. I crushed his heart but he’s going to be okay, too.
Apparently.
“If it doesn’t work out with that guy,” he says, “you mind giving me his number?”
