The Inmate

by Freida McFadden

“I’m sorry,” I croak. “You have no idea how sorry I am that I didn’t believe you.” He blinks at me. “I don’t know what to say. It’s a little late for that.” “I know you hate me.” I wring my hands together. “I get it. But look, don’t take it out on Josh. He’s lost everyone but me. And he really likes you. At least… at least spend some time with him. It would mean so much to him. I could clear out of the house if you wanted, or I could send him over here or…” I’m having a lot of trouble reading the expression on Tim’s face. But the syllable he utters makes my heart drop. “No,” he says. “Please, Tim.” I hate to beg, but I’ll do it if I have to. For my son. “Just once or twice even. I know you care about him.” Tim shakes his head. “No,” he says. “That’s not what I meant. I meant, no, I… I don’t hate you.” What? “I mean…” His eyebrows scrunch together slightly like he’s surprised by this revelation as well. “I’m mad at you. I’m really mad. I thought after everything we went through together, you trusted me more than that. But… Christ, Brooke. I’ve known you since we were in diapers. You were my best friend for my entire life. You were the first girl that I ever… well, you know. And that night at the farmhouse when I told Shane he better treat you right, I meant it. Because you deserve the best.” His Adam’s apple bobs. “So, no. I don’t hate you. I could never…” He doesn’t hate me. Tim Reese doesn’t hate me. I almost cry with happiness.