Liam listened without interrupting. When I explained that I wanted Jared to see how his reasoning felt from the other side, he gave a surprised laugh.

“So I’m your pretend closure companion?”

“Only if you can be respectful,” I said. “I want the truth, not a public brawl.”

“Book the tickets.”

On Tuesday, I wore a white sundress and met Liam at the airport. We had real reservations for a long weekend in Santa Fe, though I still wasn’t sure I would board the plane. Near security, I spotted Jared laughing beside Miranda. Their comfort with each other hurt more than I expected.

When I approached, Jared’s expression shifted from confusion to panic. He immediately insisted the scene was not what it appeared to be.

I turned to Liam, kissed his cheek, and asked if he was ready for our trip. Then I explained that Jared’s “closure vacation” had inspired me to revisit my own past before making a lifelong commitment.

Liam solemnly offered Jared his hand. “Closure matters before marriage. I appreciate Tessa being mature about it.”

Jared refused the handshake. He demanded to know whether this was a prank, while Miranda stared at him as if she was hearing new information too.

“It’s as real as your trip,” I said. “The difference is that I didn’t lie about where I would be once you asked.”

I took Liam’s hand and walked toward another gate. This had begun as a lesson for Jared, but as the terminal opened before us, I understood that I might truly be leaving my old future behind.

Chapter 3 – What Followed Us to Santa Fe — Continue Reading… ↓