It’s hard. Never did I expect this, he told her. So different than how I planned it. You were supposed to fall in love with me. Be by my side. All that stuff you see in movies. Two people who can’t live without each other, he poured a drink. Want one? she shook her head. Whispered no. I’ve always adored you, he said. Always thought you were the most beautiful woman in the world. I still do.

Do you?

Yes. You don’t believe me? I’d like to prove it to you, he ran his fingers through her blonde hair. I’d like to show you.

Please don’t. That’s not what I want. 

You sit there. All tied up. And you have the audacity to tell me what you do and do not want.

How am I tied up? she asked.

Me or him. Right? I mean, that’s what it gets down to. The choice has you all tied up. You feel restricted.  Yes?

No. I do not. I made my decision a long time ago. I was just waiting for things to be in order.

Order?

Yes. Order.

Are things in order?

They are.

Where are you sleeping tonight?

Not here.

I see, he took another swig. Is it hard for you?

What?

This decision. 

It’s never been easier.