In Which I Discover Where I Stand In This Relationship

This morning I finished packing my backpack in the dark, throwing in deoderant, makeup, my toothbrush and a contact case. I poured my coffee and made sure I had my dress and boots ready to stow away in the car. I collected my laptop and textbooks and grabbed a Lean Cuisine from the freezer. I peeked in on Nicholas and turned off the hall light.

Finally, I made my way back to the bedroom and perched on the bed next to Paul's sleeping form. I was late, but I never skip this good morning ritual. I leaned over and brushed my hand over his short hair and kissed his forehead. He's so cute when he sleeps. This morning it took a few kisses sprinkled over his face to rouse him from sleep, and he did so reluctantly, turning his head towards me and offering his face, but never opening his eyes.

"I love you, Baby," I whispered. "I'm going to miss you this weekend. Tomorrow night seems a long way away."

He finally cracked his eyes and gave me a real kiss. "I love you Baby," he said in his hoarse morning voice. "Don't wreck my car."

If you see this cruising up I-5 this weekend, steer clear. I can't wreck Paul's car.