Sophia, who art thou?

9. ROMAN

31st December, 2017

I fucked it up.

When Tessa told me about her party I was hesitant to come. There would be nothing for me there and I was quite looking forward to nice evening in. Okay, I can see how that sounds depressing up its really not that bad. Sure as hell is better than waking up with a massive hangover and making empty promises about how you're "never going to drink again".

But then she told me Sophia would be there. I haven't seen her in about four years. The last time I ever talked to her was at my graduation. Then I left town. I couldn't say no to meeting Sophia and my sister knew that.

"But she's still with, Andrew, okay? So I need you to tread lightly."

"When do I not tread lightly, Tess?" I only call her that because she hates it and I love that.

"All the time, Roman. Please promise me you'll behave."

I don't like making promises I don't intend on keeping. So, I do what every good lawyer is taught. "The last thing I want to do is interfere with her happiness."

I create a loophole.

*

"I told you about her and Andrew!"

I don't listen to Tessa. Well, I do. But I don't register anything she says.

"Roman!"

"What?"

"Andrew is going to propose to her."

Okay, I'm listening now. "He what?"

"Yeah. Sophia just told me earlier today. When we were setting up for the party, I meant to tell-"

"You know when?"

"No. But it's soon."

"Does she know what she'll say?"

"She doesn't know yet but I think we both know she'll say 'yes'."

"Her bloody moral compass."

"I'm sorry, Roman. I know what she meant to you and how much-"

"How much she means to me, Tessa. Not meant. Means."

Tessa sighs. It's patient but tired. We've been down this road before. She's always been by my side. She's made it clear she was never overjoyed by it but she's always been in my corner. "Do you know what you're going to do?"

"I'll wait."

"Okay," she whispers as she leans against the balcony railing. "Roman?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm rooting for you two."