He Left Our Relationship on Read
I have been in a long-distance relationship with my boyfriend, Eugene Walsh, for three years. I finally have enough leave time to visit him after working overtime for an entire month.
But when I arrive, I can't reach him. I wait alone in an unfamiliar city for ten full hours before he finally replies.
When the call connects, my best friend, Haley Woodward, greets me with a cheerful laugh.
"Surprise! I explored Oakhaven for you in advance. It's so much fun! Eugene is an amazing tour guide!"
She chatters nonstop about all the fun they've had, as if she never notices the 30 missed calls displayed on Eugene's phone.
I listen quietly.
Only when she says she's cold does Eugene finally take the phone from her and say to me, "I'll take her back to the hotel first. Wait for me a little while more."
The moment he is done speaking, I ask, "Do you know how long I've been waiting?"
Eugene pauses for a second before saying icily, "She's your best friend. Do you really have to compete with her over this?"
The unmistakable accusation drains away any desire I have to keep talking.
I hung up.
Just then, the cab that will take me back to Centuria arrives.
The driver takes one look at me and can't help but comment, "Miss, it's already past midnight. This area isn't very safe. How can your family leave you here all alone?"
I look down at my shoes that are soaked through by snow and slush.
In a soft voice, I say, "Yeah."
Then, I smile and add, "They won't. Not anymore."