No Space for Her Love
During college, Cindy Crammer brought over two sets of breakfasts every day.
One was for me, and the other was for my roommate and best friend, Mark Jefferson.
The breakfast she brought me never changed. It was always just sandwiches and oatmeal.
Mark's breakfast, on the other hand, always had a perfect balance of meat and vegetables, and she never repeated the same meal twice.
Even for my birthday, the gifts she prepared came in two sets.
My birthday gift was always four simple greeting cards.
Mark got concert tickets, a handmade rhinestone photo mosaic, a custom-made suit, and a pinky ring.
When it came time for our graduation trip, the three of us arrived at the train station together.
Mark and Cindy scanned their documents and passed through without any trouble, but I was stopped outside.
Cindy slapped her forehead in frustration and smiled at me apologetically.
"I only remembered to book Mark's ticket. I forgot yours.
"We've already made it through. I don't want to waste the money. I'll take you on a trip for two next time."
Mark patted his chest and made a promise to me. "Don't worry, Jason. I'll take good care of Cindy for you."
I watched their backs as they walked away side by side, laughing and chatting.
I let out a bitter chuckle.
I didn't want to keep lying to myself anymore. I turned around and bought a ticket home.
"Dad, you said I had to get married right after graduation. I agree!
"Remember the referral I made for an intern named Cindy? Cancel it!"