She breathes out, relieved. “You’re right. Thank you.” Her beautiful smile switches on and I, absurdly, feel certain in a way I haven’t in ages. I let myself believe, for a second, that by this time next year we’ll have figured it out.
I’m going to spend my life with this woman.
Chapter 66
Liz, May 1
Armed with my new information, I sit at my computer and open Skype. This time, I’m ready for his questions. Ask me anything, I dare silently. I can tell you where I want to work, how to become a citizen of the UK, even how Matt’s lawyer plans to handle custody exchanges.
This time, I’m not wavering. My mind is made up.
I’m moving to England — for him, for us.
Chapter 67
Ben, May 1
“So that’s my decision.” Liz finishes her rant with a flourish of her hand. She’s spent the better part of the last thirty minutes explaining why she wants to move here. I didn’t have the heart to interrupt and tell her I’m already sold on it.
“Babe, that’s fantastic.”
“Really?”
“Yes. Best news I’ve had in months.”
“Excellent,” she sighs.
“Anything bothering you?” I ask, noticing the slump of her shoulders.
“I just don’t want to wait until October to see you.” Liz had explained her plan, which included Emma and her coming to England once they were given the doctor’s clearance to fly. According to my amazing girlfriend’s extensive research, that should happen around October.
I should say I’m amazed by how calm and happy this all makes me. I am a 29-year-old man, desperately in love with a woman. She has taken it upon herself to plan our entire future; I should be freaking out. All the men’s magazines say that would be a normal, acceptable reaction. Honestly, I’m not scared. The idea of settling down as a family with Liz forces joy through my entire body.
“It’ll come fast, babe, you’ll see. Then we’ll have the rest of our lives to make up for lost time,” I say.
“I wish you could be here in August when Emma comes.” Liz’s face takes on a wistful quality. It almost makes me laugh. Pre-all-this Liz never dreamed. She thought dreaming was dangerous. I’m flattered that she isn’t afraid of dreaming about a future with me.
“Do you want me there?”
Liz nods her head slowly, sending little curls bouncing.
“Then I’ll be there,” I tell her.
“Just like that?” she asks, as a smile illuminates her face.
“Just like that.” I wouldn’t miss it for the world.
Chapter 68
Ben, May 19
“So, when are you moving out then?” Kyle has always been the practical one. I’m not at all surprised he’s the one asking for rational details.
“Well, I’m leaving in July for the US. I’ll be there until Liz and Emma are cleared to fly, probably sometime in early October. When I come back, we’ll be moving. I need to find a place that’ll be ready by October first.” I lay out the plan Liz and I have worked through.
“Are you paying rent for August and September?” Kyle asks.
“Absolutely. You guys can have the check before I leave.” I’ve got enough saved to cover this, and when Liz asked me to be there when Emma was born, I didn’t hesitate.