4. Marx
four
Marx
Iwake with Lana's hand between us—not touching mine, but close. I find myself staring at it for way too long. I want to lace my fingers through hers and place her hand on my chest, something I’ve never wanted to do with anyone else.
How can I prove to her she's not a consolation prize— not the woman I used to prove that canceling my wedding was right?
I know I should be mourning the life I left behind, but instead I keep thinking maybe Lana could be the start I never realized I wanted.
In just a few short hours, Lana has come to mean more to me than I ever imagined possible.
At breakfast, she steals my coffee—I steal her bacon—then she threatens me with a fork. I couldn’t ask for a better start to my day.
By noon, we're laughing like we've known each other for years as we walk through a mountain town where no one recognizes me. I spend thirty dollars at the arcade just to win her a ridiculous stuffed moose.
"It's hideous." Lana pokes the moose in the nose.
"You love it." I pinch the moose’s antler.
"I absolutely love it." Lana holds him tight against her chest, and for the first time in my life, I can say I’m jealous of a stuffed moose.
At lunch, I realize that today is supposed to be my wedding day. I wait for regret—it doesn't come. Instead, I look at Lana across the table and feel relieved.
Relief isn’t supposed to look like dark eyes, a teasing smile, or a woman hugging a ridiculous stuffed moose. But for me, it does.
"Stay another day." The words rush out. We never discussed how long we planned to stay together, but for some reason I need her with me for at least one more day.
Her smile fades. "Marx."
"One more."
"You were supposed to get married today." The reminder hangs heavy between us.
"I know."
"Maybe you need some time alone."
"Maybe." I let the word hang in the air and watch her face.
"But?" Lana lifts her chin and holds my gaze.
"I'd rather spend it with you." I meet her gaze and don’t look away.
She studies me before answering, saying, "One more day."
"One more." I draw a careful breath and say the words neither of us believes. One more day with Lana will never be enough.