Writer Divided

Chapter 2

I searched 'Jaimi Seidwick' online and clicked on her website. The main article was definitely about a new book. The book was called "A Chronicle of Chronic Illness."

I sighed and clicked 'Read more.'

Valentine Winter is a problematic, moody, housewife to the all knowing political scientist, Jacob Winter.

I stopped there.
****

"The story of my mindless love for him is something that needs to be shared," I told Nick.

Unfortunately, yesterday's running away didn't end without Nick, it ended with him. After I made it home, I had the unfortunate pleasure of realizing that not only did I have his jacket, he had mine. I expected to be quite the trade off, however, I had left my address on a business card in the pocket. He quickly tracked me down.

Now, he's at my apartment early in the morning drinking coffee with me. He had asked me why I ran away and unfortunately, it's time for an explanation.

"I fell in love with a man once, and when I did, he ruined my life. I have come to found out, most love is one sided. One side is love, the other is manipulation. Unfortunately, I was on the wrong side of the boat, Mr. Sprecher. So, I'm sorry for running away, but life got ahead of me."

He simply nodded and continued to stir his coffee. "Maybe, and this is just a suggestion, you should actually drink it," I told him.

He quickly sent a hand through his hair. "I'm quite sorry. I seemed to have worked up quite a bit of nerve somehow."

I nodded. "It's alright. I understand."

"I would hope that...Ms. Winters, I'm assuming that this means that you aren't living this life for someone?" He asked.

"Except myself? No," I said smiling.

"Exceptional. I need for you to know something," he said, grabbing my hand and holding it against the table.

"Yes?" I asked.

"This world is to large to settle. I need to know now if you would settle with me, or if you would truly want me."

I was awestruck. Even though I've spent 7 hours with this man, in only two days, this seemed extraordinarily premature. Either he was eager or trying to get something.

I moved my hand away from his, and just feigned a strong interest in my coffee.

"Sorry, extraordinarily inappropriate. It's just that, I as well, have been on the wrong side of the boat."

I nodded. He smiled. "I have an idea. But you have to trust me again," he said.

I rolled my eyes. "What?"

"We're going to an amusement park. So roll up your sleeves, honey. Today will be the best day of your life."

I laughed and nodded.

"Just get in the car with a complete stranger. I sound like a kidnapper," he said.

"Don't worry. My friends will know where I'm going," I said.

He smiled. "Let's go," he said grabbing my hand and running me out the door.

I just put on my sunglasses and got into the car, when I realized he had also slipped on a pair.

We both sort of just stared at each other when that happened. Then we laughed.

"Awh, Jesus, Vinny. You can't just crump my style," he said.

"Vinny? What the hell?"

"I thought it was cute."

"Well it is, but I don't know."