Page 76 of Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts 1)
“Thanks, that’s great.”
“So, tell me more about Destiny.”
I take a long drag of my cigarette. “I don’t know, man. She kind of fucks me up.”
“Whoa. What happened?”
“She’s unlike any woman I’ve ever met. She’s remarkable.” Another long drag as I scratch my eyebrow with the thumb of my hand holding the cigarette. “I fuckin’ kissed her.”
He’s silent for a second. “On the lips?” He knows about my pact with myself.
“Bro, I couldn’t fucking stop myself.”
“Shit.” He pauses. “Good for you. It’s about time you stop punishing yourself and let someone in.” He’s always been straight with me, sometimes even brash, but his statement comes out with compassion.
“I didn’t say I was letting her in.” I lie to myself, because admitting it means that when she leaves after her visit, I’ve not only hurt her, but I’ve crushed my own heart. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. Maybe I made a rash decision in the heat of the moment.
“Bro, it’s okay if you are. That’s all I’m saying. Let me know when you have your plans set and I’ll check with Angelina.”
“Okay, I will.”
“Have a safe trip back. It’ll be good to see you, man. And I’m looking forward to meeting this woman who’s chipping away at my brother’s frozen heart.” He chuckles.
“Fuck you.” I laugh, blowing smoke out my nose and mouth. “I’ll see you soon.”
“Love you, man.”
“Love you too.”
Now I have to make sure she comes to Italy. I’m not ready to give her up.
