Chapter 23

“These trips back and forth from Tacoma are taking a toll on our relationship,” Jenny told her sister. “The last time we talked on the phone his voice sounded exhausted. He is not sure if he is coming here this weekend.”

“Long-distance relationships are not easy. It is hard being away from someone you love,” Kara opined.

“Yes, it is. Big time. Chatting, talking on the phone, or sending each other pictures, all of these things make me feel closer to Liam. But it’s not enough. Not anymore. I want more than just a long-distance relationship.”

“Okay, I could drive you to Tacoma,” Kara offered. “I happen to be free this weekend.”

“Thank you, Sis, but you’ll end up hating me if you have to drive me back and forth.”

“I would do anything for you, Jen. I love you.”

“I love you back just as much.”

Liam is a great guy. He helped you to be the best version of yourself. This is the happiest I have seen you in a very long time,” Kara said with a smile.

“Liam is the best boyfriend ever. I owe him so much more than what I’ve been giving him. I just don’t know how to thank him for everything.”

“Why don’t you take your relationship to the next level?”

“What do you mean?”

“Turn your long-distance relationship into a marriage.”

“What?! Are you out of your mind?”

“Liam already hinted that he wanted to get married when he asked Dad for his blessing.”

“That’s true. We talked about it during our trip to Tacoma. But it doesn’t mean he is going to propose any time soon. I think he wanted to show that he was serious about us.”

“Jen, do you love Liam?”

“Yes, I definitely love him.”

“Does he love you back?”

“Yes, he does.”

“Do you see yourself spending the rest of your life with him, having his kids and a future together with you?”

“Yes, I do, but...”

“Then what are you waiting for? Go and get your man.”

“It’s not that simple, Kara. For example, where are we going to live? Middletown or Tacoma?”

“You said Liam’s grandparents own a big house. They even remodeled it for you.”

“Yes, they did, but ... I don’t want to live in Tacoma, I love Middletown. I wouldn’t live in a big city if I could help it. Besides, I’d be away from you and Mom and Dad, from my students ... On the other hand, I couldn’t ask Liam to leave his work, and his family to come to live with me here. It would be asking him to make the same sacrifice I’m not willing to make,” Jenny let out a cry of despair.

“Have you talked about these things with Liam?”

Jenny shook her head. “No, of course not.”

“It’s time to take the bull by the horns, Sis. When things are meant to be they just happen.”

Liam came into the house after a long, tiring week. He was especially looking forward to the weekend to spend time with Jenny.

He found that a small dining area had been set up at the end of the room. A dinner table with candles and flowers. A delicious smell was coming from the kitchen, making him realize how hungry he was.

“Mom? Nana?” he yelled. “Did any of you have a romantic dinner planned and forgot to tell me?”

“Nope, guess again,” Jenny said, rolling her chair out of the kitchen. “Surprise!”

“Jenny? Wow!” Liam was speechless.

“I hope you’re hungry.”

“I’m starving. Where’s everyone?”

“Your grandparents and your mother went away. We have the house for ourselves tonight.”

“How did you get here?”

“Kara drove me here. Don’t worry, she drove back to Middletown right away.”

“And you went to all this trouble because...”

“Because I love you, and I realized the weight of the effort you have been putting in to ensure the well-being of our relationship.”

“Okay,” Liam was looking at Jenny with a puzzled expression. “I’m glad you are here.”

Carefully, so he wouldn’t unsettle Jenny in her wheelchair, Liam pulled her closer until their lips were just a centimeter apart. “I have been longing to be with you all week,” he murmured. And then he closed the distance between them and kissed her.

Jenny released Liam’s lips. “You know I love you, right?” she whispered, their lips just millimeters apart.