Collision

by T.S. Reed

But friends don’t kiss friends like that, and enemies definitely don’t feel that fucking good pressed up against each other.

I give him grace and forgiveness and acceptance where he has given me bruises.

The tiny cry that slips through her lips is agonising.

She won’t look at me. “I need you to tell me what happened, because right now I -”

“If, when some of this has passed, when you aren’t scared to go to bed alone in this shitty little apartment... if you wanted me?” There is nothing but simple honesty in his eyes. “You’d have me, Mik.”

But I want you to be sure. Take some time to heal, okay? Then, if you really want me, I’m yours.”

“One phone call. I’ll be here in ten minutes.” “Ben, you live at least twenty minutes away.” “And I will get here in ten, Mikaela.”

“She - erm - she’s this strong, beautiful woman, Ma. Honestly, she’s incredible and she doesn’t even realise it.”

This is what free-falling must feel like. It’s like the earth simultaneously stopped moving and sped up. Like gravity has been suspended, and yet something is still pulling me hurtling towards a bone-crushing landing. This is exhilaration and freedom and stupidity all bundled into one all-consuming thought: Ben Haston is kissing me.

“You’re completely oblivious to the fact that I’ve been thinking about this for years, Mikaela.”

Falling in love with you was a collision, Ben. It was sudden and unexpected and, at times, absolutely terrifying, but I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have you.