Chapter 8: Unfinished Goodbyes

Tanya always remembered birthdays and holidays—maybe it was her romantic streak. She didn’t just bring me gifts; she expected me to do the same. Somehow, the kid who never cared about birthdays grew up into an adult who marked every one.

That day, it was chilly out. I went to the airport to pick up Tanya. As soon as she saw me, she gave me a huge hug.

"You’ve lost weight. Your chin’s so sharp now. But you look great. Guess you haven’t been too hard on yourself."

I smiled and took her home. While she showered, I stepped outside. Under the faded glow of the streetlight, Derek stood there in a black coat, collar up to his chin. His gaze was heavy, and for a second, it felt like he wanted to wrap me up and never let go.

For a heartbeat, I almost called his name, but the words stuck in my throat. In the quiet night, you could hear far-off traffic and the wind rattling a loose window pane.

"You followed Tanya? She’ll be pissed if she finds out."

Derek didn’t answer. He just looked at me. After a long pause, he turned and walked away.

His car vanished around the corner, but the ache in my chest stayed put. Maybe some goodbyes don’t echo—they just settle in, quiet and permanent.