Page 168 of The Love Operation

I think about explaining. About telling him how scared I was to admit that it was always Benedict. That Isaac was the safe choice—except he wasn’t. But tonight, it’s not really about choosing either one. It’s about choosing myself and truth.

When I look at his face, I feel something unexpected. Not anger. Not betrayal. Just sadness. For both of us.

So instead, I decide to give him something no one gave me when I needed it: “Isaac, listen to the next girl you fall in love with. Pay attention to what she wants and who she is. When you truly love someone, you listen to them. You trust. You don’t try to control their path to protect your own. That’s what you did to me. Our relationship was built more on control than love, and those relationships always fall apart. Believe me, I know.”

He has no idea how much.

I stand. “And let her, whoever she is, love you for you. But be honest about who that is.”

With that, I walk out, leaving the wine half full, the candles still burning, and the man I once thought I had a future with sitting at a table set for two.

For the first time in weeks, I’m not looking back . . . at anything.

Chapter 44

The GIF That Keeps on Giving

Me: I’m okay.

This is my response to Benedict after leaving Isaac’s house—hours after he asked how I was.

Benedict: Wow. I was sure you’d died.

Me: Hmm. Funny. I don’t recall receiving any bereavement flowers.

Benedict: Damn. I’m never using that florist again.

Me: I’m sorry it took me so long to text you back.

Benedict: No need to apologize. I know you’re busy. I’m just glad you eventually did.

Me: I was busy . . . but that’s not why. I was avoiding your text.

Benedict: [GIF of cartoon guy smiling, then slowly turning to reveal a knife sticking out of his back.]

Me: I couldn’t stand looking at it.

Benedict: Oh. Now I feel so much better.

Me: Good.

Benedict: Good? That’s it?

Me: Oh, you want more? Okay . . . seeing your name on my phone broke my heart.

Benedict: That’s tragic.

Me: That really is your favorite word, isn’t it?

Benedict: It is now. But seriously . . . why did seeing my name break your heart?

Me: Because you do things to me, Benedict.

There’s a long pause, then—

Benedict: Not totally sure how to interpret that.

Me: I didn’t feel like I could respond until I broke up with my boyfriend.