Built to Fall

by Julia Wolf

“My Uber was in an accident a mile away, so I walked, which is why I was running late. I’ll be careful when I sit on the furniture, possibly even wear a sign around my neck so no one accidentally sits on me.”

I stepped into the hall, my name was called from behind me. I turned, raising an eyebrow at Dominic. “Yes?” His gaze roamed over my face. “Be careful.” With that, he clicked the door closed.

“The next song we’re going to play is an old one. To be honest, it’s a B-side track. But recently, someone told me it got her through some pretty fucking tough times, and I had to wonder, why the hell am I not playing ‘Angel Moon’ more often?” He plucked at his guitar and huffed a short laugh. “Let’s see if I remember how it goes. I might need your help, okay?”

“Who did you think I played it for, if not you?” he asked softly as I pushed open my door. My head jerked up, meeting his gaze. “I don’t—” “I’m glad you loved it, Claire. It made me happy to see you loving it.”

“Being hurt by the man who’s supposed to love you doesn’t mean you’re not a strong woman. It means the man is weak.”

“My point is you’re incapable of closing your heart, even when you want to. You aren’t made that way. You, baby girl, were built to fall. It’s just who you are.”

“I’m in love with you. I’ve weighed the risks, and loving you is worth it.”