Stacey’s POV
The air was cool as Brent and I walked side by side our footsteps quiet on the empty street. I couldn’t ignore the warmth of his hand in mine and yet his words still rang in my head. It felt strange to stand so close to him while knowing his heart was still caught on someone else.
“Do you think things would be different if you’d met Betty here in the city instead of back home?”
Brent gave a soft sigh and his gaze distant. “Maybe. We grew up together. Betty’s been part of my life for so long that sometimes I can’t tell where my feelings end and memories begin. And I don’t know if I’m ready to let go of that.”
I nodded absorbing his answer and we continued in silence. Part of me wished he could just choose once and for all. But I also knew that letting go of someone like Betty his oldest friend and first love wasn’t as simple as I wanted it to be.
When we reached my apartment, I hesitated at the door not ready to let go just yet. “Thanks for tonight.It was nice to just… talk.”
Brent smiled, his gaze softening. “Same here, Stace. I feel like I can actually be myself around you.”
My heart thudded painfully caught between hope and frustration. “Good.” I replied, managing a smile. “Just… let me know if you ever need more than just a friend.” The words were barely a whisper but Brent’s eyes flickered with something I couldn’t quite read.
He nodded leaning down to give me a quick gentle kiss on the cheek. “I will.”
I watched him walk away feeling both comforted and hollow. Brent had so much to offer, but so much of him was wrapped up in Betty.