Lost Me Gained Regret

Christine wasn't one to beat around the bush. She believed in being forthright.

"If you can't handle the game, best not play," she thought, not wanting any future misunderstandings.

Yet she didn't speak her mind. Instead, she suggested, "There's this indie cinema nearby. Let's check it out."

Merritt trailed behind Christine as they crossed the street, his eyes downturned, "Sorry, Chris. I just wanted to bring you some snacks, didn't mean to intrude."

"If I've taken up your time, I'll make it up to you," he offered.

Christine laughed, feeling the evening's chill. She had thrown on a casual jacket and pulled it closer, asking, "And how would you do that?"

"..."

Merritt moved closer, "Whatever you want, I'm here for it."

Christine looped her arm through his, "Next time, just call before doing these surprise visits."

Merritt suppressed his joy, looking a bit hurt, "I thought you'd find it bothersome, that's why I didn't call. If you don't like it, I won't do it again. Just don't hate me, please." Christine knew his words were more about tactics than feelings.

But she loved hearing them all the same.

were intoxicating,

words of

genuine or not didn't matter.

call next time. I

"Your wish is my

happy, that's all that

do anything to keep you smiling, to

...

Dailey detested hospital stays.

on going home. Clarence couldn't stop him,

she asked, her voice quivering, tears welling up but not falling, "It's my fault. should've seen something was wrong and accompanied you here,

dabbed at a tear that threatened to fall, gently blowing on the cotton ball still on his arm

Dai. I'll get a

his voice soft

Clarence, "Make sure she

You still have a fever. If you insist on leaving then I have

I won't be able to sleep

swney

and quiet, "I'll be fine. I

night. It's