“I’m Sorry”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Prompt: “Love in the real world means saying you’re sorry 10 times a day.” — Kathie Lee Gifford

I’m sorry.

I left this morning without saying ‘I love you’. You stared after me, eyes filled with confusion and hurt. You didn’t know what you’d done wrong to deserve such a cold good-bye. I didn’t have the strength to tell you why I was upset.

I’m sorry.

I didn’t tell you why I was upset because it was so stupid. It was so stupid that I knew you’d listen intently, not once making a joke or comment, before giving me a reassuring hug. I knew all this, and still, I didn’t tell you. I knew you’d be too kind, too caring, too loving.

I’m sorry.

You’ve always loved me more than I deserved. Even after everything I’d done, you still loved me. And I know that it’s because of me that we are where we are right now.

I’m sorry.

You never deserved to be here. You should’ve been out there, free, chasing after the girl of your dreams. The girl you claim is me, but I know better.

I’m sorry.

I should’ve known better. I should never have fallen for you. It was just supposed to be another job. And, of course, my job eventually caught up to us.

I’m sorry.

I was used to working alone. I was used to being alone. Maybe that’s why I got caught up in your affections. Maybe that’s why I fell so hard.

I’m sorry.

I fell too hard. And I got scared. I was terrified of love, yes, but I was even more terrified of what would happen when the job finished. Because I knew what happens when a job is over.

I’m sorry.

My jobs always end the same way. I couldn’t let that happen to you. I loved you too much. I was in too deep. And so, I went rogue. I was willing to abandon my entire previous life for you. So that’s what I did. Except they found out. My instincts kicked in and I did what I always do. I ran.

I’m sorry.

I ran without saying ‘I love you’. I ran without saying ‘good-bye’. And now, here we are. At the end of the job.

I’m sorry.

Final Comments: I started rewatching Imposters recently and I think that this story was unconsciously influenced by that show.

Overall Rating: 😳