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- 01/18/2019
- 555 Words
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- 15 Comments
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you.
Second Chances - 14. Conviction for the Future
Hopefully the flow is gentler this time.
Two months have passed since Jerod left. I miss his presence. He calls frequently; still can make me laugh – and still earns an occasional 'shut up'. I still go to the club occasional Saturdays; things with Thomas are chilly, but acceptable. At least for me. But the workout isn't as pleasant without my best friend.
Cheryl and I have gone out a few times, but that's finished. She wants me to move in but refuses to even discuss marriage. I tell myself it's a good thing, but it still leaves me in an empty bed. I believe we will always love each other. She is a special person and regardless of what my children might think, worthy of my affection.
I told Ted I would be leaving. I'm tired of the nine-to-five routine and want to get away. Away from the house and from all the "normality" here. Took a while to realize it wasn't the 'normal' I wanted, it was freedom from being 'normal'. To be me – whoever that turns out to be.
I talked to Cheryl, the kids, Jerod – let them all know my plans. Jerod was the only one who was pleased with my decision – no surprise there. I arranged for mail pickup house and yard maintenance. I sorted through all the stuff I brought home from my work office – it is amazing how much paraphernalia a person collects without noticing.
The departure morning finally arrived. I was up early, showered, dressed, then walked through the house, checking windows, locks, the usual last-minute things. I finished the packing I had started the night before, finally convincing myself I had everything I needed. Besides, if I came up missing something, there are stores out there that sell stuff. I assured myself I could easily pick up anything if the need arose.
I looked around the bedroom once more, switched on a night-light then shut off the overhead. I set the case by the front door before walking through the house, checking windows and doors yet again, ensuring everything was set for me to leave. I paused only a moment before walking out the kitchen door and locking up.
I slipped the suitcase into my trunk then climbed into the driver’s seat. Retiring early was a bold and slightly nerve-wracking move, but it was time. I now had the time and the money to live for myself. Surprisingly, no one had tried to talk me out of it. Annie and I had always planned on seeing the country; there was nothing to prevent me doing so now.
I reached out and turned a small photograph hanging on the rearview mirror so I could look at it. It had been laminated, hopefully it wouldn’t fade. Our wedding day. I smiled as I looked at the one true love of my life before releasing the photo to swing freely as I started the car. The CD player kicked in and Helen Reddy’s voice drifted through the car as I headed off to parts unknown.
“And when one of us is gone
And one of us is left to carry on
Then remembering will have to do
Our memories alone will get us through
Think about the days of me and you –
You and me against the world”
And thank you for your comments - they have meant a lot.
I'll be starting my next story soon - entitled 'Mitchel'. Watch for it.
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Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you.
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