Dashing All the Way

by Chelsea Curto

Whoever decided running is a good form of exercise can go straight to hell.

I’m a stubborn bitch, and there’s nothing I love more in life than proving a man wrong.

“Do what? Contemplate the necessity of men’s existence? It’s pretty easy; I think society would function just fine without them. Think of how well the world would run if women were in charge.”

“Masked men. Chasing in the woods. Fun stuff.”

“The Ritual” ?? LOL

“I’ve run out of reasons why Jada can’t listen to the books she loves. I sound like a controlling husband.” Rhett scowls at me. “I don’t know how to tell my wife I don’t want her to hear my best friend tell her to take it like a good girl.”

“Margo Andrews. Today is December eleventh. I’m twenty-four years old. I can’t believe people think running is fun, and I feel like I’m dying.”

“Your son didn’t know how to fuck me.” Margo brings her mouth close to mine. “Do you think you will?” “Baby, when I’m finished with you, you won’t be able to walk straight. I’ll give you exactly what you need.”

And tonight, I want Finn.

“Be a good girl and be patient, Margo.”

But the best part? He made me laugh, and we had fun.”

I’m a needy girl, Finn. And right now, I need you.”

I can take care of you and fuck you.”

The juxtaposition between his bedroom side and his real-world side is making my head spin, and I don’t know which one I like best.

“You said someone like me would never be able to finish a run that long. Guess what? I did, and I kicked its ass. It’s where I met your dad, so I guess I should be thanking you for your lack of faith in me. Because of your doubt, I’m happier than you could’ve ever made me. I found a man who believes in me. Who makes me want to keep running because he’s so supportive, no matter how much slower I am than him. Words hurt, Jeremy, and if you tell people what they can’t do, you’re never going to keep anyone around.”

“I love you so much, and the only thing I want to do with you is dash all the way down the aisle until you’re my wife. Until we’ve been married for fifty years and you’re sick of me.”