Chapter 6: Argument
Eric showed up to see me three days later. Maybe he was embarrassed in front of his friends because he didn’t sound friendly at all. “Can we go inside and talk?”
I moved aside to let him in.
Some things really need to be talked out in person.
“Moving out is one thing, but ignoring me and blocking my number all this time. Maddie, you’ve really gone too far.” He tried to pull me close, but l’ just stepped to the side.
He frowned and said, “There has to be a limit to your tantrums.’
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I looked at him calmly. “I’m not throwing a tantrum. Breaking up is breaking up.”
Eric studied me for a moment, then sighed and took my hand. “Let me guess… is this about the joke I made that night at the bar when you came to see me?”
I calmly pulled my hand away and said, “A joke should be funny. Eric, did you really think that comment was humor- ous?
“Or is it that having your partner publicly compared to a dog means nothing to you? After all, it was just a joke, right?”
Because of my birthmark, I’ve had to deal with so many cold stares since I was a kid. For a girl, how could I not feel insecure about it during my teenage years?
But when I was feeling the worst about myself, Eric once casually said that the birthmark actually made me look unique. He encouraged me to overcome my insecurities and turn my flaws into an advantage, which inspired my goal of walking on bigger runways and making a name for myself, to prove I was worthy of him.
Now, though, I suddenly didn’t care about Eric’s applause on the day I achieved that goal.
Seeing my serious face, Eric’s attitude changed. He stroked my fingers, his tone soothing. “Honey, that comment was really just a joke-no harm meant. You know how I get when I’ve had a drink. I was just trying to ease the tension be- tween you and Kelly, so she could help you remove the…”
“Did I ever say I wanted it removed?” I tugged at my lips. “You think you’re acting in my best interest, but when have you ever asked for my opinion before making a decision?”
Eric seemed taken aback by my outburst. I was usually so easygoing. He froze for a moment, then quickly softened his tone again.
“Okay, okay, I promise it won’t happen again.
“If you don’t want to remove the birthmark, we won’t. There’s no need to let such a small thing strain our relationship,
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Chapter D. Argumen
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right? Besides, we’re going to look at wedding dresses in a few days. You’ve been looking forward to that custom- made gown. You’ll look amazing in…”
I frowned. “Haven’t I made it clear enough? We’re done. Or are you still too drunk to understand English?”
Rumor had it that to welcome Kelly back, they booked out a whole bar for three nights. People saw Eric holding her, disappearing into a private booth-and when they finally came out, both had swollen lips and messed-up clothes.
Now, he had the nerve to stand here like he was the victim?
Eric’s jaw tightened. “So that’s it? After everything I’ve done to make it right, you’re still punishing me over one
harmless comment?”
His voice was sharp, desperate. “I’ve never begged anyone like this. Think carefully, Maddie: I don’t take back my words. Once you walk away, there’s no undoing it.”
“Let me ask one last time. Are you sure you want to give up our ten-year relationship over such a small joke?”
I looked him straight in the eyes, calm and unwavering.
“Perfect,” I said. “Then let this be my final word.”
I leaned in, smiled, and whispered:
“Yes. Precisely because of that joke.”
