Happy Place

by Emily Henry

places in our universe where the rules of time and space inverted, moments becoming a place where you could stay indefinitely.

“I think I’m slow-release boring.”

You are in all of my happiest places.

“In every universe, it’s you for me. Even if it’s not me for you.”

Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” crackling out. It feels like time has been canceled, thrown out, suspended indefinitely.

As soon as I step foot in the apartment, I feel the shift. Somehow I know he will never live there again.

You’re already home, I think. I wonder if I ever will be.

I got rid of every single piece of you, like that would make a difference, like I could cut you out of me, and instead, I just see everywhere you’re supposed to be.”

I’d rather have you five days a year than anyone else all the time. I’d rather argue with you than not talk, and whether we’re together or we’re not, I’m yours, so let’s be together, Harriet.

“I’m saying,” he murmurs softly, “it’s not home unless you’re there.”

I want to sleep in sometimes. I want to stay up too late and take vacations with my friends, and I want to have energy to decorate my apartment and to try new things. I can’t do any of that when I’m this worn-out. I know that’s disappointing, but it’s my choice.”

felt