Don't Tell Me You've Gone Astray

The hot coffee warms the back of my throat as I swallow it. It's bitter. I decide to add a packet of sugar.

"So, what made you decide to come back to Jersey?" Frank asks.

He's taking this whole thing too well. I want to know what's going on in his head. Is he angry? Does he even care anymore? He must be over it. He hasn't murdered me yet.

The radio in the coffee shop is playing Celine Dion. The door opens when someone leaves, letting in a chilly breeze. I lift the coffee mug up to my lips, trying to give myself enough time to think of a plausible answer.

"It's too hot in Miami."

I've already told him that but, it's the only thing that comes to mind.

Frank nods, taking a bite of his doughnut.

I sigh. He knows I'm lying.

"Okay. I came back because I wanted to apologize to you."

He gives me a half-smile, waiting for me to continue. I look down at my coffee, hoping he doesn't see how red my face is. He doesn't say anything, so I finish my apology.

"I spent every day in Miami, thinking about how bad I fucked up. I couldn't take it anymore so, I decided to come back. I shouldn't have done what I did, but I can't change it now. I'm sorry."

I'm now picking at the hem of my sleeve. I probably sound pathetic. I half expect him to dump coffee in my lap and get up and leave, laughing in my face as he walks off. He doesn't.

"It's alright." He replies. I'm not sure if it makes me feel any better. Why is he so neutral about this while I'm the one making a huge deal? "Honestly, when I found out you had cheated on me, I was pissed. I hated you. Now, I think I've gotten past all that. I just want my best friend back."

I take another sip of coffee and set my mug down on the table. I start to say something else, but he continues.

"I don't think I want to be in a relationship right now. We should just be friends for now and take things slowly."

I smile at him. For the first time in months, I felt a wave of peace rush over me.

"That's fine."

Everything is gonna be okay.