Better Than Fiction

by Alexa Martin

“Thank you,” I whisper into the darkness. “I’m sorry you had to see that, but thank you.” “Don’t ever apologize for that, Drew.” His long fingers flex into the softness of my hip. “Thank you for feeling safe enough with me to allow me to be here for you.” I didn’t think it was possible for my body to produce another tear, but at least this time, the tears don’t fall from sadness. I roll from his grip, turning so we’re facing each other. “Thank you for staying.” “I’m not sure you’ve realized this yet, but I really like you, Drew.” The faint light from outside my window filters in through the small crack in my curtains, just enough so I can see the shadows and lines of Jasper’s face soften. “I always want to stay with you.” “Careful.” I bring my hand to the side of his face. “Those are the kinds of things a man says to make a woman think they’re in a relationship.” “I know.” He pushes his cheek into my palm, a slow and lazy smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Is it working? Because there’s nothing I want more than to be able to call you mine and me yours.”