Returning Hearts

Chapter 7: Stay With Me

Jackson can't help but wonder back to the words he read in August's text as he chews his chip.

I'm sorry I left you. That was wrong. I was selfish and I did need you. You may never forgive me but I hope one day you do because I miss knowing you. August

He had just noticed he had a message from her when he was waiting on her to change clothes. He couldn't figure out how he had missed seeing it last night. He tries to brush it off as just a polite apology from her but he can't help but wonder if it had more meaning. If he had seen it when it came, he would have never entered Isabelle's apartment. He didn't have sex with Isabelle but he still feels guilty. He wonders though if she has slept with other men and the thought scares him as he looks up at August, who is taking another bite of dip. Her cute expression of satisfaction from the flavor causes feelings in him he had almost forgotten about.

They begin to talk about their lives now and share laughs as they enjoy each other's company. They lose track of time as they reminisce but soon Jackson remembers it is Monday night and that August is leaving in the morning so he looks at the time.12:23 am. His mood lowers with his smile. "It is getting late. You have your flight and I have work in the morning." Jackson thinks about being without her again and feels sad wondering if he would get to spend time with her again. He has missed her so much all this time and seeing her intensifies his longing for her.

August nods her head as her smile disappears also. "Ok. I am ready if you are." He starts to ache inside as her eyes remind him of how good she once felt in bed with him. Her naked body comes to his mind as he glances down quickly at her breasts while she is gathering her purse and coat. He has to force himself to look away from her as she looks back up towards him. "Thank you for dinner."

"Anytime." Jackson looks back at her trying to hide his lust for her but he knows she knows him too well and fears she can tell so he quickly looks away. He reminds himself of the words she said to him a year and half ago, I can't love you anymore and pretend you make me happy when every time I look at you all I feel is hate. That thought brings his mood back down as they exit the club. He opens the car door for her before going to the driver's side. Briefly pausing before getting in the car, Jackson breathes out heavily trying to relieve some of his pain of wanting her.

"So, I was looking at moving into that apartment building..." August points to a building they are passing as he drives. "But they don't have an opening for three more months. It is hard to find a two-bedroom apartment in this town for a reasonable price. Your parents said their guest house was empty and offered to let me stay there for a bit." She seems a bit nervous as she asks, "But I didn't know if you. Or. If it would bother you?"

Jackson clears his throat. "Um, no. Why would that bother me?" Jackson sounds confused by her question.

"Well, I have or..." She continues to sound nervous. "I guess I didn't want it to be weird."

Jackson remains silent as he focuses on driving. His thoughts are running a million miles an hour though as he tries to figure out how much his life is about to take a turn with her moving back. He had a hard time without her here but having to see her all the time will be even harder. He thinks back to her text from last night before he speaks. "I saw your text and I forgive you."

August's green eyes catch his briefly as he continues to drive and he notices a change in her facial expression laced with a bit of surprise and pain. She seems a bit uncomfortable as they both remain silent for a few moments before she quietly speaks, "Thank you."

Jackson notices tears gently running down her cheek. "It hurt when you left me..." He remembers not to say Auggie as he pauses for a second. "But I knew it was what you needed because I could not bear you hating me more." August begins to sob slightly from his words.