Chapter 16: Chapter 16

“We could go to counseling together,” I suggested. “Why don’t we do that?”

“And keep living under the same roof? I just…I don’t know if that’s a good idea.”

“But separating is a good idea?”

Eloise hung her head. “Of course. Of course this is happening. I want you to want me, and when I finally conclude that this isn’t going to work out, you upend everything.”

“I do want you. I still love you, Eloise.”

“I don’t know if I believe you.”

I stared at her in disbelief. She got up and walked around to the other edge of the counter. She averted her eyes from me.

“Go ahead and take your time. Take what you need. If you must come back later, t-that’s fine with me, too.”