Ten Years of Wrong Love, I Begged Him to Leave

Just as I was about to book a nearby hotel, a few messages suddenly popped up on my phone.

[Summer, I know it’s rude to disturb you and Cole on Valentine’s Day. You two must be cozying up at home right now. I don’t expect you to come see me. But can you recommend some good places to eat in Denver? I’m here on a business trip.]

It was my best friend from college, Claire, who had vehemently advised me against being with Cole.

Her fiery temper even led her to say, “If you’re with him, we can’t be friends.”

I found it strange back then.

What’s so abnormal about dating?

She threatened to cut ties over it?

Though she said that, her sharp tongue belied a tender heart, and she never really cut ties.

We kept up with each other’s lives through social media and exchanged holiday greetings.

I wiped my tears and messaged her:

[Can I stay with you tonight?]

With that, she exploded.

[What’s up. Did you argue with Cole? I told you he was no good. Come on, take a cab to the Regal Hotel. I’ll come down to meet you.”