Make Me Hate You

by Kandi Steiner

“This is me saying that I would set myself on fire to bring light to all of the dark places within you.” – Beau Taplin

He’d casually brought up what kind of ring I would want, how I would want to be proposed to, what kind of house I’d like, where I’d like to set roots, if I wanted kids… It was all normal, necessary conversation for a couple in a healthy relationship. But for some reason, every time we went there, I clammed up. “How’s work?” I asked, changing the subject before it could linger too long on the M word.

“I don’t think you’re being irresponsible with it.” “No, not too much,” I said, but inside, I felt the exact opposite. No one knew the amount of online shopping I did. And oh, did I do it.

“So, what now?” Tyler grinned, pulling back to look me in the eyes. “I was thinking we could spend the rest of our lives making up for lost time.” “Oh yeah?” I asked, feigning nonchalance as my heart galloped in my chest. “Yeah. What do you think about that?” “I think the rest of our lives won’t even be enough.” At that, Tyler kissed me, slow and soft and sure, and then he whispered, “Then let’s stay together forever after that, too.”

“Talking about my parents when I’m between your legs is not cool. Total boner killer.” Jasmine laughed. “Was just trying to make a point. Between them and your sister with baby number two on the way, I’d say we’re locked into a family of hopeless romantics.” “I’ve always been hopeless when it comes to you.”