Something Wilder

by Christina Lauren

They were both broke and totally alone, and they quickly bonded in a way only two women can when they’ve had enough of their lives being turned upside down by the impulses and bad decisions of men.

“Can you believe that was all done by rainwater searching for the sea?”

He was always so calm, always adaptable. She realized, watching him, that he met challenges as if they were an expected part of his path. By contrast, she resented every tiny roadblock.

“I need you to understand that I can’t shape my life around someone else ever again. Every day has been dictated by another person’s shitty choices, or my own circumstances resulting from another person’s shitty choices. I realize I’m being rigid here, but I have to be. I can’t bend to suit what works for you.”

took one step, then one more, and slowly, supported by two women who were stronger than any man he knew, he hiked the distance to the chopper.

Her stubbornness had served her well, even if it was a double-edged sword. It meant she was unbending, but it also meant she was a survivor.

But even when she laid out the justification for pulling away, she realized—objectively—it wasn’t healthy to be so unwilling to try.

Just because thoughts are loud or constant doesn’t mean they’re right.”