Page 114 of Sand in My Boots

Every once in a while, he’ll say things that make little sense, and we’ll start down a path of an awkward and confusing conversation like we did when we first got together at the wedding. It’s become our thing.

Except this time, maybe what he’s suggesting is it’s not so much about the condo, but everything else. Isn’t that the truth?

“Your mom and dad are waiting to say goodbye.”

“More of a ‘see you soon.’ I’m not ready for the g word.”

In a lot of ways, I had an easier time heading off to Michigan for college. It was temporary, whereas this is more permanent. Cameron and I have had several long talks about our relationship and what the future holds for us. Things won’t always go the way we want, but we’re equipped to deal with whatever comes our way. There’s still a bit of the “one day at a time” and “live in the present” mentality. We both decided there’s no rush on forever, though at some point, if we want to have kids, we should probably get on it sooner rather than later.

My mind’s a funny creature. I should not be thinking about babies at the present time, but it’s a way of not dealing with having to say farewell to my parents.

“Okay. Let’s get this over with.” My eyes closed, I inhale deeply, hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. Yoga breathing is going to get me through this.

“Remember, we’ve got plans to come back for Thanksgiving. Tickets already booked. Paid the bill yesterday.”

“I can still be sad,” I protest.

“Of course. I’m not saying you can’t. I’m trying to remind you when we’ll be back. And they’ll come visit. They’ve got more than you to visit there.”

So many things are changing. Wonderful changes all around, but it doesn’t mean acceptance is easy.

Spinning in his arms, I glance up at him. His smile melts my heart. “I love you, Cameron Fairbanks.”

He swipes his hand across his forehead. “We’re finally at that stage? Phew.” He places his hands on my ass, tugging me closer. “I love you, Juliana Langley. I’ve waited like years to say that.”

I swat his chest. “You have not. It’s been a week at most.”

His expression grows serious. “Not true. I wanted you to believe it hasn’t been that long. The truth is, it’s been longer than that. It took me a while to realize exactly what it was.”

“We don’t have time to argue about it.” He goes to speak, but I cut him off. “Not that I want to argue about it anyway. Not even a little.”

“Okay, good. ‘Cuz it seems like maybe you do. Even a little.”

He’s goading me, trying to rile me up. It’s his new thing, but I’m stronger than he is and not falling for it.

“Thanks for letting me say it first.”

That’s how it all got started, but if I get into it now, I’ll cry more. And I’m already on a path of mini-destruction.

“You’re welcome.” He leans in for a kiss, one thing I will never not oblige.

Ever since the time he went all Hulk about the Whispering Tide share, and we missed out on five days of kisses, I decided when he asked, I’d submit. It’s not a hardship to kiss him. To feel his lips on mine. To share the connection of being loved by him.

Nope, not at all.

This one doesn’t last long. We’re in somewhat of a hurry.

“New mattress got delivered yesterday. All set for us to christen.”

His comment excites me. “Best news ever.”

With our relationship being so new, we’re still figuring things out. The latest bone of contention was his bed. As much as he convinced me the mattress was new and not shared with anyone, I didn’t want to start life with him on a used bed. I ordered a new one without telling him. He was more upset about the money, not that I went behind his back. He’s still adjusting to that, so he gets a pass. As much as he “grew some balls and accepted the fact I bring more money to the relationship,” he still has qualms and hang-ups. Things he’s working on.

Was it my best decision? Hardly. I’m still learning what it means to be part of a loving relationship, one built on trust, honesty, and open communication. We’re learning how to navigate it, each in our own way. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. I found my forever mate in Cameron.

One last hug and glance around my room, I motion for us to head out. Mom and Dad stand in the living room, waiting.

“Juliana, you don’t want to miss your plane. Will you have time to make it?” Mom worries.