The Arrangement

The Distance

As August came to a close, tensions rose between us. We spent hours working on proposed cuts in expenses and funding options to pay for our pet projects. The problem was both projects were expensive, but the rewards wouldn't be immediate. It was a lot to invest in the short term.

We debated options, like doing one at a time or each scaling back on our goals. We were at an impasse. I was looking into a joint venture with a university that had promising research already underway.

I argued. "The problem is, if we miss this opportunity it may be too late. We need a product before the competition."

"I know, I know."

"Can't we do some solar now and the rest later? You said the costs are decreasing annually."

"What about the geothermal?" he asked frustrated.

"Down the line." I sighed.

"Jesus, you don't support me." His jaw was set as he bore into me with dark eyes.

"I do. We need to be fiscally sound and remember our business isn't alternative energy."

"Screw you." He walked away. When I heard the door slam, I knew he was walking the dog. He was acting like the old Daniel and it bothered me. I had gotten used to the new Dan and really liked him ─ more than was wise.

I figured he needed space and went to bed. I didn't take his insults personal. We were both frustrated, but this whole proposal was my idea. I wanted to move on the new product line. Maybe the time wasn't right. Selfishly, I didn't want to give up my ideas for his. Lord knows, he probably felt the same.

Dan didn't show up for our noon meeting the next day. He was moping, but whatever, I had plenty of my own work to do. Luckily, it was Tuesday, so I didn't have to sit across from him at the dinner table. I personally needed the stress release dancing provided.

I was tired when I finally headed home. Driving up Route One, a car pulled out into my lane crashing into me before I could react. The impact jarred me and activated my airbag. Shaken, I climbed out of my car. The damage was extensive. My car was crushed. If I wasn't in shock, I might have yelled at the other driver for practically killing me.

Someone must have called 911, because an officer showed up quickly. I sent a text to Patricia explaining. I was concerned about making it home in time, although it was only ten. Still, my car was going to have to be towed away.

I was giving my statement to the officer when I saw him. His forehead was lined and his eyes looked dark and intense. Relief washed over me, knowing I wasn't alone. As he approached his face softened and his gaze reminded me of how my father looked at my mother. At that moment, I knew Dan cared about me more than he was letting on.

"Are you alright?"

I nodded, but suddenly the tears broke free. He gathered me in his arms and I let him. He felt strong and safe. I want to hide in his embrace, but then I saw the officer tapping his pen on the clipboard. I was reminded that I had been in the middle of my statement. I wiggled free of Dan's embrace, so I could finish with the officer.

Eventually, I was able to leave. We didn't speak about our disagreement. In fact, once I assured him I wasn't hurt, we were silent the remainder of our short ride.

Patricia was at the door to greet me. She pulled me into her arms. I looked over at Dan and he looked sad.

We had three work days until Labor Day weekend and it felt as though Dan and I were as distant as when we first moved into the cottage on The Point. I was confused, because one moment he looked at me like he cared and the next he turned cold again.