Secret Obsession

by S. Massery

Well, I knew I was obsessed with her. It should be fucking obvious that I’m in love with her, too.

It’s you and me until the end of time.”

Well, it would be. And it is, for a second. Our lips touch, holding perfectly still, before he seems to register that what I need is him. It’s not love. It’s suffering and healing and everything that goes along with it.

He lifts his shoulder. His gaze, though, sears into mine. With it, he’s pulling me apart to examine my soul, and I shudder at the rawness of it. I find myself wanting to give him what he wants.

“Don’t be afraid to fall. That’s the hardest lesson to learn.”

“Miles Whiteshaw,” I start. “I think I may love you more than anyone I’ve ever known.”

“No. I’ve been saying a whole hell of a lot to my future wife since we first met.” I narrow my eyes. “Like what.” “Like the fact that I fell in love with you ages ago.” He rolls his eyes. “We talked about this. I told you I fell in love⁠—” Shock flickers through me. “You didn’t say with me.” I gape at him. I should’ve known this. I should’ve realized, right? I stop and focus on his expression. “I thought you were unavailable. Unattainable. Already in love with another girl⁠—” “You,” he interrupts.