Chapter 42: Ill doers are ill deemers
I went downstairs to find my soon-to-be husband, hoping not to catch him dancing with another girl. He was seated at the bar, sipping his favorite cocktail. "Hey handsome, can I join?" I asked. He smiled and kissed my hand. "Come here. I'm sorry for making you mad, baby," he said. "It's okay, let's not have this conversation anymore. We are good, we are fine, okay?" I suggested. He nodded in agreement. "Good. I'll go for a double scotch today," I decided. Aaron looked confused. "Why?" he asked. "Oh, nothing, I just feel like it." Aaron reminded me of the early start we had the next day and advised against too much alcohol. "Fine, I'll just go for a margarita then," I conceded to the waiter. "That sounds like my girl," Aaron remarked. "So what are we having for dinner today?" he asked. "I don't know. I'm craving some fish again, so what do you think?" I replied. "Yeah, fish doesn't sound bad," he agreed.
"I'm really saddened by the fact that we have to leave Jamaica so suddenly, especially when I was looking forward to exploring Kingston and other places," Aaron expressed, his disappointment evident.
"Hey, let's not dwell on it. We'll discuss this," I reassured, his tone comforting. "You're welcome to stay; I just don't feel like remaining here myself."
"I feel guilty leaving your mother behind like this. She's been through so much for the family," I admitted, my concern evident.
"She made her choices, and now she has to face the consequences. We can't let her drag us into her problems," Aaron countered firmly, his frustration apparent.
"I understand your frustration, Aaron. You always do your best for your mom. But try to see things from her perspective too," I urged, attempting to diffuse the tension. "However, if you still want to stay, that's okay. I'm not upset anymore, but I've made up my mind to go back. I want to support her, even if it feels like no one else is available."
"She can't rely on Tianna right now, and I'm not sure about your dad either," I continued, voicing my concerns. "I just want to ensure she's okay and that someone truly understands her."
In the midst of our differing opinions and emotions, it was clear that empathy and understanding were essential in navigating this challenging situation.
"I hate seeing my mom in distress, and I can't bear the thought of her suffering because of my decisions. So, I'm fully committed to supporting you in this," Aaron declared, his love and concern evident.
"Don't do it for me, Aaron. Do it because you genuinely care for your mom," I insisted, wanting him to act out of genuine concern.
"Of course, I do care for her," Aaron affirmed. "Well, then, we're in agreement," I replied, relieved to have reached a resolution.
Curious, Aaron broached a sensitive topic, "Why are you so understanding toward her, yet you were angry when I cheated? Did you cheat on me? You can tell me if something happened with Gill. I won't be mad."
Suppressing a pang of guilt, I responded firmly, "No, Aaron, I didn't cheat on you. It's not something that ever occurred." Inwardly, I grappled with the truth, knowing I had been intimate with his sister, but since she couldn't recall the encounter, I dismissed it as inconsequential.
I know that might seem selfish of me I should come clean, but it's not worth jeopardizing our relationship over a past mistake.
"Okay," Aaron accepted my response, seemingly satisfied with the explanation.
As we savored our final evening in Jamaica, sharing a delicious meal, we endeavored to make the most of our remaining time in the tropical paradise.
"Can I finally have this dance tonight, my last dance, with the beautiful lady sitting across from me?" I asked Aaron with a smile.
"Okay, sure, you've got it," Aaron replied, returning the smile. "Let's go."
We danced all night, enjoying more coffees and cocktails as time slipped away. But as the clock struck 10, the impending early morning flight loomed over us, yet sleep remained elusive.
"I have a silly idea," I confessed to Aaron.
"I'm all ears," he responded, intrigued.
"What do you say we give the space cake another shot?" I suggested tentatively.
"Valencia, no. Absolutely not. We're never touching that stuff again," Aaron replied firmly.
"Well, you won't, under my watchful eye," I teased. "Come on, just this once."
After some persuasion, Aaron remained steadfast. "No, I don't trust it. Besides, the vendor has already left."
"But I might have tucked away a couple of pieces in the fridge," I admitted with a playful grin, trying to appear remorseful.
"Aaron, I'm throwing that away right now. You're not doing it," he insisted, his tone unwavering.
"Did you eat any today?" he inquired.
"No, I just thought it would be a fun thing to do tonight, but I guess not," I conceded, understanding his concerns.
As we sat outside, deciding to share a cigarette, we delved into discussions about the beauty of life and our aspirations. Suddenly, Aaron changed the subject.
"So, do you truly forgive me for what happened with Layla?" he asked abruptly.
I was taken aback by his sudden question. "Yes, I do. Why bring it up now?" I replied, trying to keep my tone steady.
"It's just... you seemed so furious that day. I never imagined you'd want to be with me again," Aaron confessed, his tone tinged with uncertainty.
"Well, what can I say? I was furious, but I also came to understand the situation and how Layla deceived her entire family. It made me more empathetic, though it doesn't excuse your actions," I replied, trying to temper my frustration.
"But I'm willing to forgive you. It's not as if I'm plotting some sort of vindictive revenge," Aaron assured me. "However, if you can't forgive me, we can end it right here."
Feeling a surge of anger rising within me, I struggled to contain my emotions. "If you genuinely want to end our relationship because of your doubts, that's on you. But don't use my illness as an excuse," I retorted firmly.
With a sense of frustration building up, I abruptly stood up. "You know what? Maybe this wasn't such a great idea. I'm going to bed. Thanks for nothing," I concluded, walking away, my emotions in turmoil.