“I was sitting on the bathtub,” Emma said. “I was going to shave my arms. Because I thought you wouldn’t like me anymore if I didn’t.”
Tyler’s eyes filled up with tears. Right there in our living room.
“Emma. I didn’t know.”
“That’s because you didn’t ask,” she said. “You didn’t ask what I wanted. You just told me what to do.”
He wiped his face with the sleeve of his sweatshirt.
“You’re right,” he whispered. “You’re right.”
Emma glanced over at Daniel and me. Then she looked back at Tyler. And when she spoke again, her voice was gentler.
“I feel really bad about what those boys have been saying to you. I do. Nobody should make you feel gross because of your skin. That’s not okay. Brandon is a jerk.”
Tyler nodded. He couldn’t really talk.
“But you made me feel exactly the same way, Tyler.”
“I know.”
“Exactly the same way.”
“I know. I know I did.”
Emma took a deep breath. Her hands were shaking a little in her lap.
“And I don’t want to be with somebody who’s embarrassed by me.”
Tyler went completely still.
“Are you breaking up with me?”
Emma’s eyes filled with tears. But she didn’t look away from him. Not for a second.
“Yes,” she said.
I have never been prouder of anyone in my life.
Tyler lowered his head. For a moment, I thought he might argue. Beg. Make promises.
Instead, he just said, “Okay.”
He stood up. He apologized one more time, to Emma, then to Daniel and me. He said thank you for the lasagna last week. Then he walked to the front door and let himself out.
Emma went to the front window. She watched him walk all the way down our driveway with his hands in his pockets and his head down.
When he turned the corner and disappeared, she turned around.
And she burst into tears.
Ethan Blake is a skilled Creative Content Specialist with a talent for crafting engaging and thought-provoking narratives. With a strong background in storytelling and digital content creation, Ethan brings a unique perspective to his role at TheArchivists, where he curates and produces captivating content for a global audience.
Ethan holds a degree in Communications from Zurich University, where he developed his expertise in storytelling, media strategy, and audience engagement. Known for his ability to blend creativity with analytical precision, he excels at creating content that not only entertains but also connects deeply with readers.
At TheArchivists, Ethan specializes in uncovering compelling stories that reflect a wide range of human experiences. His work is celebrated for its authenticity, creativity, and ability to spark meaningful conversations, earning him recognition among peers and readers alike.
Passionate about the art of storytelling, Ethan enjoys exploring themes of culture, history, and personal growth, aiming to inspire and inform with every piece he creates. Dedicated to making a lasting impact, Ethan continues to push boundaries in the ever-evolving world of digital content.