“Yes, but more than that, you deserve some respect from your boss, because you’re incredible, and he’s taking advantage of that right now.”
“I know. I just need to get through tonight, and then we’ll go from there. So hopefully Abby doesn’t tell the judge we’re not complying with counseling.”
“No, don’t worry about that. I’ll explain everything. Don’t think another thought about it.”
“Okay.” I blink a few times, trying to gain back some composure.
“Text me when you’re done.”
“I will.” Before I hang up, I pause. “Hess?”
“Yeah?”
“Thank you.”
“I didn’t do anything.”
“You did everything.”
There’s a smile behind his voice. “Then that’s what I’m here for.”
I take a second alone in my office, thinking about how nice it was to have someone to call, someone who’s in my corner nomatter what. Something tells me that’s what I’ve been missing in my life.
Hess
“So how are things going?”Abby looks at me expectantly.
It’s weird to be at marriage counseling without Camila.
“I would say we’re making progress.”
“Camila too?”
“Yeah, she completed her homework and told her friends and family about the marriage. I met her mom, which I’m sure was hard for her.” Abby smiles, liking that detail. “I’ve been trying to get her to open up a little more each day, and I think it’s working.”
“Those are big steps for her.”
“Yep.” I slap my thighs.
“Last time you both were here, there was some discussion about the physical side of your relationship. There was some talk of boundaries being put into place. How has that been going?”
“Well, we kissed,” I blurt.
She tries to hide her smile. “You did?”
“Yeah.”
“How did that come about?”
“It wasn’t some cheap physical thing. I took her on a date and kissed her respectfully.” There might have been some passionate moments that weren’t entirely respectful for a first kiss, but she’s my wife, so there has to be some leniency there.
“When did that happen?”
“A couple of weeks ago.”
“Have you two kissed since?”
“No, I’m trying to take things slow, let Camila get comfortable with the idea of us.”
