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A sense of dread followed Mitch in the morning. The house felt eerie and silent without Ally’s hum. The kitchen darkened like a tomb without the smells of coffee and cinnamon heavy French toast and heavenly warm syrup. He missed her touch, her kisses. The sleepover at her mother’s had been planned for months.
But it scared Mitch on how they had ended things. He tried to call her several times but he wasn’t sure what to say. Sorry I’m a jerk? Please still marry me?
“Maybe start with an, I’m sorry.” John said as they both moved around the mechanic shop. “I’m not saying I’m an expert at relationships but saying you’re sorry can fix a lot of things. Not spilled mac and cheese on the floor when your wife is nine months pregnant but—.”
Mitch chuckled despite himself. He lifted the hood of a blue Oldsmobile, flipping a wrench in his hand. “It sounds so simple. I called her Hannah, John.”
John slid under a red Buick, with only his legs sticking out. “And it was a shock. It hurt. But it’s over. You can explain why Hannah was on your mind. You got emotional and it tumbled on out. Ally’s understanding. She’ll get it. I feel like it’s all my fault.” John slid back out and scowled. “Sorry, Man.”
Mitch waved him off. “I wish you told me in private, but I get you don’t want to repeat yourself a dozen times. I mean, you’ll still be repeating yourself, am I right?” He shook his head. “I’m over it. I want to fix things with Ally.”
“So, go fix things with her. Lunch rush is almost over. Plus, I’m getting nothing done with your constant talking. No offense but I’m on a ticking timer. Regardless of what Daisy says, she could go at any moment.”
“Shouldn’t you be home?” Mitch asked.
“She kicked me out. I guess I’m driving her crazy and she needs ‘space’.” John shook his head.
“Oh man, that sounds rough.”
“Not as rough as it’ll be for you if this wedding doesn’t happen,” John grumbled.
Mitch cringed. “You’re right. I’m sorry.” Mitch glanced at the clock and grabbed a rag to wipe his hands on.
“Get out of here already,” John said and tossed an extra rag at him.
Mitch agreed it was time and raced for the door. He had a future bride to see.