Chapter 32: It's Okay

Ericka's POV

It's a new day! I'm sitting here in Jared's cozy house, surrounded by the warmth and comfort of his living room. We've spent the half day just hanging out, watching our favorite shows on Netflix and snuggling up on the couch together. It's been a really relaxing day, and I've loved every minute of it. We even made some snacks together, which was a lot of fun. There's something so nice about sharing a simple pleasure like that with someone you care about.

To be honest, I'm still a bit uncertain about where things are headed with Jared and me. I mean, we're not really talking about labels or anything like that, and I'm not even sure if we're ready for that kind of conversation yet. But despite the uncertainty, I do know that we're happy together. We laugh, we joke around, and we just enjoy each other's company. And that's what matters most to me right now.

"How are you living with your grandma?" He asked.

"It's going great, actually," I said, munching on some popcorn as I watched the TV show we were watching. "I'm really enjoying staying with her, and it's been nice to have some company." I paused for a moment, collecting my thoughts. "Plus, to be honest, she's the only family I have left now. After my divorce from Marco, I lost touch with a lot of people, and my grandma is the only one who's still in my life. It's been really nice to have her by my side."

"I'm right here too," he said, his voice low and gentle.

I was lost in thought for a moment, staring at the TV screen as Jared's words sank in. I turned to him, surprised by the sudden change in his tone. He was looking at me with a kind and understanding gaze, and I felt a warmth spread through my chest.

He continued, his smile softening his words. "If you need someone to talk to, I'm all ears." I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked at him. No one had ever offered me that kind of support before. Not Marco, not anyone. And yet, here was Jared, offering me a listening ear and a listening heart.

I felt a lump form in my throat, and before I knew it, tears were streaming down my face. I was surprised by the sudden burst of emotions, but Jared didn't seem fazed at all. He reached out and gently wiped away the tears, his touch soft and comforting.

"Shh, princess," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. "It's okay." He pulled me into his arms, holding me close as I buried my face in his neck. I felt a sense of security wash over me as I wrapped my arms around him, holding on tightly.

As I looked up at him, "It's okay to be vulnerable sometimes," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "It helps you build real connections, grow as a person, and become emotionally stronger."

As the minutes ticked by, I felt myself relax into Jared's embrace, feeling the tension and stress melt away. We lay there in silence, the only sound the gentle hum of the TV in the background.

But eventually, reality reared its head. My phone buzzed with a message from my grandma, reminding me that it was time to head back to her place. She was meeting with some other senior citizens and wanted me to accompany her. I gently pulled away from Jared, feeling a pang of disappointment.

"Sorry, Jared," I said, getting to my feet. "I have to go. My grandma needs me to come with her."

Jared nodded , helping me up from the couch. "It's okay," he said. "I know how important family is. You should go take care of your grandma."

I felt a surge of gratitude towards him. He didn't have to be understanding or supportive, but he was. He was showing me that he cared about my relationships and priorities, even if they didn't always align with his own.

I hugged him quickly, feeling a sense of appreciation. "Thanks, Jared," I said, smiling. "You're a good friend."

I caught a fleeting glimpse of something that flash across Jared's eyes. His face fell, and for a moment, I saw a hint of sadness. But then, just as quickly, his expression changed, and he was back to his usual self.

"Be careful on your way there, Ericka," he said, his tone slightly different from before. It was as if he had been about to say something else, but then thought better of it.

I didn't press him for an explanation. I was getting used to Jared's unpredictable emotions, and I knew that sometimes he couldn't control how he felt. I just nodded and smiled, trying to reassure him that everything would be okay.

"Thanks for today again," I said, trying to keep the conversation light.

Jared nodded and walked me to his front door. He opened it for me, and we stood there for a moment, the silence between us growing thicker.

"See you soon," he said finally, his voice back to its usual warmth.

I smiled and nodded.

I stepped out into the bright sunlight, feeling the warm air envelop me. As I walked away from the house, I glanced back over my shoulder, seeing Jared standing in the doorway, watching me go.

We wave to each other.

I walked briskly through the familiar streets, I had just reached the intersection where I needed to turn right to catch a taxi, when suddenly, I found myself bumping into someone.