First Flight, Final Fall

by C.W. Farnsworth

“Otto hung a sign that says, ‘Saylor Scott’s Inspiration’ above my locker,” Beck states. A reluctant grin tugs at my lips. “That’s kind of funny.” It’s also nice to know he didn’t totally erase me from his life the way I’ve tried to remove him from mine. “I thought so, too,” Beck admits. “Not that I’ll ever tell him that.”

“It means I want to date you. Be in a relationship. Whatever you want to call it. I want you, Saylor.”

“Relying on people is not a mistake. Relying entirely on someone who doesn’t rely on you is. That’s what happened with your mother and me. I relied on her for everything, and she didn’t rely on me at all. You’re strong, Saylor. So, so strong. You don’t need someone to hold you up, but it’s nice to have someone to lean on.”

Because the sight of Adler Beck walking into my living room is not one I ever expected to see.

“I came because I feel this way around you even when we’re just staring at the sky,” Beck continues.

“Like we could be doing anything in the world and it would still be as thrilling as skydiving.” I snort. “I will never go skydiving. Do you know how many people break their legs? I wouldn’t be able to play for months!” “I don’t want to go skydiving with you, Saylor. I want to be the person you rely on when you’re acting like you can do everything on your own.” His words remind me of my dad’s, and I push back the same way I did at the wedding. “I can do everything on my own,” I insist. “There’s a difference between wanting to and having to,” Beck replies sagely.

“I want to be in a relationship with you.”

Because I’m completely, devastatingly in love with him, even if I haven’t told him so.

Beck chuckles as he uses my waist to tug my body flush with his. “I love you, Saylor Scott.” There are a dozen witty quips waiting on my tongue, but for once I opt for sincerity. “I love you, Adler Beck.”