Chapter Six
Everyone thought I was lucky to be with Tony.
But I think we’re equals.
Tom thought I was just a doctor, but he had no
idea about my research and accomplishments.
Tony wanted to know everything about me.
<
He once held me close, whispering, “Honey,
your work saves lives. You’re a superhero!”
Because of Tony, I knew what love really was.
Not one person taking and another giving, but
two people working towards their dreams,
supporting each other.
I wasn’t going to let Tom shake that.
He was still at it, though.
One day, he showed up at my office with a
guitar.
He started singing that song he wrote for me,
the one he sang when he asked me out.
The melody was familiar, but I felt nothing but
irritation.
I told him to leave.
9:12
((
924
He grabbed my hand. “Ashley, I’m sorry! I don’t want to break up! It’s all my fault! I should have appreciated you more! Please, forgive me!”
I looked at him. “Did I stutter?”
“Being with you was the biggest regret of my
life. You know what I’m thankful for?”
He perked up, but I crushed his hopes.
“That we didn’t have kids. That’s the only good thing that came of it. Please, leave me alone.”
His parents came in, took him back to his room.
They apologized. “I’m so sorry. He’s been
saying a lot of things. Ashley, is there any chance…?”
I looked at them.
<
9:12
“I’m married, with a kid.”
924
“Even if I wasn’t, I wouldn’t be with Tom. I don’t love him.”
“I want him to focus on getting better, and
leave me alone.”
They nodded, sad and defeated.
Soon after, Tom transferred to another hospital.
I didn’t hear from him again.
Because I was too busy enjoying my life.
I got a chance to go abroad and study.
My boss asked me to be a part of the research
program
When I got to America, Tony and Charlie were
thorn
waiting at the airport
<
9:12
there, waiting at the airport.
924
He had flowers, and a goofy grin on his face.
Tony hugged me. “Surprise! You’re not doing this alone! I did not want you to miss us, and we wanted to tag along with you to make more memories. I want you to know that you do not have to be alone. Wife, you have my support, and you can depend on me!”
I started to laugh.
During my time here, we saw the country.
We made memories that I’ll never forget.
Then, one day, I heard that Tom had died. I felt
a pang of sadness.
But then I looked up, and saw two figures
running towards me.
Lopened my arms and embraced my future
I opened my arms, and embraced my future.
