Page 298 of Bitter’s Sweet

“I know.”

That makes him laugh.

There he is.

The man beneath all the ugly choices.

The one I missed even while I was furious with him.

I take a small step closer.

Not enough to touch.

Enough that he notices.

“I’m staying because I found something here that feels like mine.”

“Good.”

His answer is immediate.

No because of me?

No does this mean us?

Just good.

I take another breath.

“And I still haven't decided what you get.”

Pain flickers across his face.

He does not hide it.

He also does not hand it to me like a bill.

“I know.”

“I mean it.”

“I know.”

“You can't behave for a few days and decide you're finished.”

“I know.”

“Stop saying you know.”

His mouth almost curves.

“I am familiar with that request.”

I fight a smile.

“Bitter.”

He sobers.