Ficlets

Distance

Alex and Chloe settled in the ice cream parlor like old times. “Ice cream fixes everything.â€? Alex said with a smile while he dipped in a French fry.

Chloe nodded in agreement with a smile as well but her expression was still somewhat distant.

“Chloe?â€? Alex asked softly, leaning in close. “I promise it’s all over.â€? He waved his hand in front of her but his hand hit the spoon from her hand into her lap.

Alex apologized hundreds of times while he cleaned up her clothes but Chloe assured him that it was fine. Or more importantly, that she was fine. That was a lie despite the ice cream.

“Chloe?â€?

Her voice was suddenly icy. “Did you hear what he said?â€? she whispered almost to herself. She shook her head in thought. “Those two words.â€?

“Let’s just get you home.â€? He offered his hand and they walked outside.

“Alex, I’m sorry.”

“What are you sorry about?â€? Alex still had trouble saying. “Nothing was your fault.â€?

Chloe looked down at their feet as they walked through the cold. “I should have just loved you.â€?

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