Jessica
My blood went cold at her response. How'd she know that I had told Demi where I was going? She must've recognized the look on my face because she smiled maliciously at me and addressed my concerns.
"I heard you mumbling when I came into the bathroom. Besides, your cycle just finished last week, you didn't possibly think that I believed that crap."
I leaned back into my seat, staring out the window, finally allowing the tears to fall as the plane ascended. For the first time in months, I felt hopeless. I felt as if Marissa was always twenty steps ahead of me. The worst part was that I was yet to figure out why she was doing this. She always said it was because she wanted to give me the love I deserved but surely this wasn't what she had in mind because if it was, we have completely different perspectives on the idea of love.
"Ok, you win. I give up."
I stated to Marissa as she struggled with a crossword puzzle. She paused before slowly closing the book and turning to me.
"And what does that mean?"
She asked cautiously. I suspected that she didn't want to get her hopes up in case I was fucking with her again but I was so done with fighting this uphill battle.
"It means that I'm done retaliating. I'm honestly so tired of this struggle. You call the shots and I'll comply."
She continued staring at me for about two minutes after I'd finished talking. Probably checking for all my obvious signs of lying. Soon after, a smile slowly spread across her face and she kissed the back of my hand.
"You honestly have no idea how happy you're making me right now."
She squeezed my hand tightly and I directed my gaze out the window. Somehow, this felt like the best thing to do. In fact, it felt like my only option. Marissa continued to ramble excitedly beside me but I blocked her out as best as I could.
"Hey Jess....."
I turned towards her, she paused before she went on, probably trying to read my mind. Her face visibly softened as she caressed my cheek gently with her palm.
"....it'll get easier ok? I promise."
••••
"Please fasten your seatbelts as we prepare for landing."
The voice of the pilot announced as the plane began its descent. Once again, Marissa squeezed my hand as her excitement began to escalate. Within the next twenty minutes, we were at the airport and preparing to exit the flight.
Hand in hand, she led me through immigration, customs, retrieving our bags and ultimately to the car that took us from the airport to our new house.
I must admit, the house was absolutely breathtaking. Marissa really outdid herself. It was a Georgian styled two story house. It was mostly light blue with white bordering which stood out magnificently against the green acreage.
"And just wait til you see inside."
I felt Marissa whisper in my ear while snaking her hands around my waist. I turned to her and gave her a small smile. I really did admire her effort, I just wasn't happy. She squeezed my shoulders lightly and led me inside, giving me a tour of the premises.
