Jake is watching me over a mug of coffee in the small café. My tears have finally stopped. I’m not heartbroken, just resigned and letting go of all that pent-up emotion; part of me is relieved. There are no other words for it. His eyes never leave mine, and his arms are aching to hold me, but he knows I need a moment to let my body, emotionally, mentally, and physically, settle. I want to get through this without any outside help. It’s just something I need to do.

My Jake ...