Between Never and Forever

by Shain Rose

“It was a mutual decision between me and your best friend, Dimitri.” He sneered the label. “I’m sure she told you, considering you're the one who forced us into such close proximity in the first place.” “Don’t put that shit on me.” Dimitri took a step toward him. “She’s not doing this. You need to reevaluate what you’re asking of her, because she’s going through too much right now to—” “Stop,” I blurted out abruptly. He knew I didn’t share my mother’s condition with anyone unnecessarily, and I knew that was what he was about to do. “You gotta be honest,” Dimitri practically pleaded. “Honest about what?” Dex questioned. “Nothing.” I glared at them both. This was my life, and I was going to make my own decisions about it for once. “This is about my wardrobe. Nothing else. If you’re here for that, feel free to stay. If not, I’d like my room to myself because I have work to do.” It took that moment for Dex to realize the room’s changes. The colors. The bedspread. The few pillows and vase. My name came from deep in his chest, low in warning. “Kee.” “Oh, look at the time,” Pink said suddenly. “I have another client. I’ll be leaving now.” Dex didn’t take his eyes off me. “You can all leave. But, since I’m sure Kee told you, the engagement is real to anyone else and don’t spread the news until PR does. See yourselves out.”