Snapshot

by Kay Cove

Anyway, this doesn’t feel like love, just pain.

After almost two years of knowing the man, he still opens doors for me and pulls out chairs. Every time I see him, the first thing he does is compliment me. He takes me out to expensive restaurants that I know he can’t afford. And when I try to order something small to be considerate, he insists I get the steak, a fancy cocktail, and dessert. He’s good to me. So, I ignore the fact that we have about as much sexual chemistry as two puffer fish.

“Sometimes if you pretend like something isn’t a big deal, it eventually just stops feeling like a big deal. It’s the only coping mechanism that’s ever worked for me.”

“Warm honey? Never tried that one.” She pinches her thumb and pointer finger together, making a sprinkling motion. “With a little cinnamon.”

“No, Trouble, that’s okay. I think I’ll keep you. I’ll leave you to shower in peace. But just know if you scald yourself, the ‘I told you so’ I give you will be loud and relentless.”

“I gave a billionaire ten dollars for beer.”

He looks at me like I’ve lost my mind. “No. Sorry. You can have literally any bill in my bank account except that one. It means way too much to me.”

I’m not waiting one more night for your sweet pussy, Lennox. You’re my wife. All mine. I’ll have you when I want, where I want. Clear?

“The fact that you can’t wait until we get home is such a turn-on.

Love is how the universe stays in control of our fates. Some people can see that and accept it. Others ignore it and let it slip right by, living half-lives.

“Everything else in my life can break and shatter…except us. You’re my priority, Lennox. It’s as simple as that. I’ll get rid of anyone who threatens my happily ever after.”

My Nancy Drew instincts kick in, and I’m more certain than ever… All the pieces are clicking together like finding the final part of a 2,000-piece puzzle. Here it is: Dex is not a true Hessler. But Denny is.

“You take such good care of me. You must like me or something.” She flashes me a smart smile. “Yeah, Trouble, you’re all right.” I kiss the tip of her nose. “I think I’ll keep you.”

“I never imagined a life where my entire purpose is to wait around until you have time for me.

My original intention was to become more like you. In the end, I fear I changed your heart more than I allowed you to change mine. And for that, I’m sorry.