I can’t do it. I can’t. If I had the choice, I would run back into his arms. I made this choice before I met him… I didn’t think I’d fall in love with him, but alas, love is unpredictable. I decided to take a job offer thousands of miles away. All I could think about in that moment was getting out of this place. Now all I could think about was staying for him.

“You gotta go, Zoe. It’s only six months.” Jonathan said as he twiddled with my fingers.

“I can’t. It’s too long. So much can change in six months, J. W-W-What if—“ I began.

“We’re not going to do this again. Listen, this is SUCH a big opportunity for you… for us. This is going to make you happy. We live in the era where we can call and text each other daily. This won’t be so bad. We will talk every single day. Multiple times a day. As often as we can.” He explained.

“Six months, though? You KNOW there’s a chance it’ll be extended.” I pleaded.

“Don’t jinx it. You are coming back home in six months, and I will be waiting here with open arms.” He grinned.

“You promise you won’t fall in love with another girl?” I squeaked.

“Oh my gosh, Zoe! Of course not! I love you more than anyone in the world. The fact that I am still holding it together when inside I am CRUMBLING is shocking me. I am going to be thinking about you all the time.” He explained.

“Just checking.” I giggled lightly.

He caressed my face before resting his forehead against mine.

“This isn’t goodbye, you know?” He whispered.

“You’re so cheesy, but yes.” I teased.

“I love you, call me when you land.” He instructed.

“I will. I love you, too.” I replied.