The Other Side of Now

by Paige Harbison

Let’s be honest—if it seems like it’ll get me some positive attention, I’ll tap-dance for anyone. And I’m not even good at it.

“Seems like you listen really well,” I say. “You leave me no choice.” He leans forward then, his lips close to my ear, where he whispers, “You never shut the fuck up.”

Me

I don’t try to protect the memory of tonight from tragedy by pretending it isn’t lovely, and I don’t cherish it so hard that I smother out its spark. I don’t question the magic or panic that what I love is slipping through my fingers, or that every good thing will one day be cast pale against the darkness of future catastrophe. Instead, I have a good night. I get kissed in the snow. I eat chocolate in bed. I make plans for tomorrow.