Isaac and Miette
It was evening and Isaac was in Oliver's room, which he had been using during his stay. He was staring out of the window when Miette came in.
"Hey," she said softly.
Isaac looked over and smiled back.
"Hey," he said.
Miette sat down next to him. There was silence for a time.
"Ike?"
"Yeah?"
"Is something wrong? You've been a bit quiet lately."
Isaac was quiet for a little longer.
"Are you... are you struggling with our relationship?"
Miette frowned.
"What do you mean? Why do you ask?"
"Well, see... I mean, I know it's been really hard not seeing each other. But you might be taking it harder than me, because I've gotten into the habit of not seeing people regularily, what with touring and all. And I... I don't know... maybe I'm just being paranoid but, I keep thinking you've been looking at other guys."
"Are you accusing me of cheating? Because I -"
"No, no. Never. I'm just... I'm just..." Isaac fought for words. "I just don't want you to hate me. Y'know, for not being around. And I... I... if you need a relationship with someone who can be around... then I want you to have that."
Isaac took her hands in his. This was so hard to say.
"I value our friendship more than anything. And I really don't want us to end in tears."
"Are you... are you breaking up with me?"
"No, yes... I don't know... I guess... if you want some time... I don't know. I guess I'm trying to give you the option. I mean, we did say that if it looked like things weren't going to work out that we'd continue being friends, and I don't want to jeopardise that."
Miette looked away and chewed her lip. At last she sighed and turned back, her eyes lowered.
"I... I guess you're right," she said unhappily. "I really love you, but I... I have been... looking at other guys... I guess I've just been really lonely when you're not around. Which sounds stupid because we went years without the other being around."
"Well, that was a cyber friendship. Not a romantic relationship."
Isaac lowered his head and kissed her forehead.
"Maybe one day we can try again. But I guess... I guess you - we - both need to figure stuff out. I'll admit, my eyes have been wandering too."
Miette gave a small smile.
"I guess so. For the best."
Isaac nodded.
The two shared one last kiss and then Miette left the room. Both were sad and yet a little relieved at the same time.