The Two of Us

by Taylor Torres

I’ve learned that disappointment is a by-product of expectation.

You can’t change people; I know that now. And I will no longer concern myself with begging people to stay. Begging them to want me back. I’ll take what I can get from those who will give it.

“Nothing we can do. No matter how much you love someone, you can’t save them from drowning. They have to love themselves enough to learn how to swim.”

“I don’t want you to thank me for showing up for you. I want you to expect it from me. Because I’m confident enough to know that I’ll follow through every single time. In whatever way you need me, I’ll follow through.” Then he says, “Rest. I’ve got you.”

“I’ve loved you since that kiss outside of Old Maple and I’ve loved you since we both lost the person we loved the most. I loved you then and I love you now. And if you’ll have me… I’ll love you until my last breath.” My tears fall freely now. “You’re the love of my life, Mara, but you’re my best friend too. I like you as much as I love you. I could have a million lifetimes with you and it still wouldn’t be enough. So, take your time.”

“I’m going to come back,” I whisper. “I swear, Ambrose. I don’t know how long it will take but I will come back to you.”

But that’s the thing about truth. Sometimes we mistake our emotions for the truth. Sometimes our truth isn’t the truth at all.