I went for a run today. It was pretty chilly out there, but I got challenged by Honey to run for at least an hour. She even followed me around on her horse for a while to make sure I’m not cheating. The cold seemed to numb me. It was a good feeling. After a while however I noticed I’m running towards Ben’s house. I felt somewhat foolish and just hoped he won’t choose this very moment to drive home. He would probably think I’m some sort of a stalker.

I wanted to turn around and run home, but suddenly I felt a sharp pain between my eyes and doubled over. Everything went black.

The next time I opened my eyes I was lying on something soft and looked into the concerned faces of two elderly people.

“Hello, dear. Welcome back! You gave us quite a fright”, the old lady chirped.

“I’m sorry…”, I seem to apologise a lot lately. “What happened?” I tried to get up, but the old guy gently pushed me back into some pillows. They smelled like lavender.

“You passed out, love. Right in front of our drive way. Probably exhausted yourself. Have you had anything to eat recently?”

I shook my head. I actually forgot to have breakfast. The old lady disappeared then soon after reappeared at my side again, presenting me with a glass of juice.

“Drink this, dear, you will feel much better”, she patted my shoulder. They made me lie down for another few minutes before allowing me to warm myself up at their fireplace. I ended up staying for most of the afternoon. They seemed to know a lot about me. I admitted I have no idea who they are.

“Well, I’m Esme”, the old lady shook my hand, “and this is my hubby, Tate Curley.”

We chatted for a while and then all of a sudden I caught myself crying in front of these lovely people, feeling sorry about myself. Tate took my hand, and while happily sipping on juice said to me, “Life is too short to worry about the little things, love. Me and the missus are together for 60 years. You think we never had an argument? Problems? ‘Course we did! But we talked about it. So I suggest your mouth – I hear you have quite a big one – and tell these gentlemen what’s bothering you, if it’s that important for you. We all make mistakes, and sometimes all it takes to realise them is having someone to point them out.” Esme grabbed my other hand and patted it lightly. “You should also try to forgive yourself”, she said. “Not everything is your fault. Things just go wrong sometimes…”

I think she’s right. They both are. I should put all bad things behind me and start everything over. I’m holding a grudge against Ben, although he never did anything to me. And Gavin? Well… I think I probably took him too seriously. I couldn’t commit myself to anyone after a few dates, how could I expect him to do just the same thing?

I sometimes wonder… Would I have caved if Tom showed up on my doorstep, begging for a second chance?