page50 (2/2)
Ryan walks through the doormy silent question
“Here’s your present” I shove it into his chest
He rips the wrapping paper until it reveals what’s inside: a photo albue after page
“It’s not a house or a car,” Ilike an idiot I took the pictures I had of Ryan and RJ so far and had theht an old-school photo albues
When Ryan doesn’t say anything, still flipping through the pages, I add, “I thought you could take it with you, so you have so to look at” I also included the few pictures I have of us froether in California, as well as a few of his fa off social media
He raises his head and his tear-filled eyes lock with mine “You made this for me?”
“Yeah” I’ the tears are because he likes it…
“It’s the best fucking gift I’ve ever gotten,” he says, setting it down and pullingHe nuzzles his face into my hair, and I wrap my arms around his waist “I never wanted this,” he says, not lettingany of it But now” He sniffles and holds hter “I want it all, Micaela With you”
“Ryan,” I breathe I can’t do this Not a week before he’s leaving
“I know,” he says knowingly “But I just need you to know that it’s you You make me want it all Make me want shit I never wanted before”
He releases me and backs up “I know you freaked out over your present…”
“My present?” I squeal “A present is that” I point to the photo album “You set me up for life”
Ryan doesn’t laugh “Daht I did You and our son The reason why you won’t be with me is because you lost your husband I have to leave in a week, but I’ happens to me, you and our son are both taken care of The house is for you to create a life in It’s the one you pointed out Only a half mile fros attached The car is safe and will fit the stroller You complained your car was too small for it I want you to be co our son around Thecare of RJ and not have to worry about how to pay for things I know your parents will help, but RJ isn’t their responsibility He’s ours He’sto need diapers and wipes and clothes… Babies have needs I know my Christmas present was a little over the top, but I only have a week until I have to leave, and I needed to make sure that when I do, you and RJ will be okay”