I have to be strong for myself. Cold, icy wrath replaced the love I believed we shared. Jake had to communicate something important, and I wanted to understand.
Jake found the flat quiet and the tension thick as fog. I sat at the kitchen table, replaying door camera footage. Ignoring my storm, he smiled his customary casually.
“Hi Em. Miss you, he said, hanging his coat.
I didn’t smile back. “We need to talk.”
A smile fell from Jake. “What’s wrong?”
The tablet paused on a frame of him with one of the women. “Care to explain this?”
Jake looked at the screen and shrugged leisurely. Emily, you’re overreacting. Just pals.”
“Friends?” I snapped. Every time I leave, different women? Really, Jake?”
Sighing, he stroked his hair. Em, you’re paranoid. None of these ladies matter.”
“Nothing?” My voice soared, rage piercing my calmness. “How can you say that?”
Jake grew stern. I add a lot to this relationship. You want to waste this on insecurity?”
The end. His rejection and attitude encapsulated my feelings. It’s not insecurity when I have proof, Jake. Cannot do it. No one who despises me will marry me.”
