Catching Red Eyes - NYC

Chapter 87

The next day after work, I felt different. I pushed back my front door, dropped my bags and walked into my bedroom. I still wasn't able to make it through the day without crying but something inside felt different. I wasn't quite sure what but I noticed my tears stopped long before they used to. After drying my eyes, I was now pacing my bedroom in my underwear contemplating on whether to wear the new running clothes. I decided I would see what they look like on and then decide. I picked up the tie dye Nike running shorts and put them on first. They were tight but I saw the lure of running in them. It felt like I had nothing on; I then pulled on one of the bright tank tops. I looked at my reflection and knew it was hopeless for me to return them back to Harry now. I slipped on the lightweight Nike sneakers and realized I had lost some weight and my legs looked toned. It wasn't my intention but I didn't mind at all.

I grabbed my iPod, slipped my headphones in, and was greeted by Marsh in workout clothes.

"Mind if I join? I missed my usual morning run."

I shook my head and we made our way down my usual route. It was nice running with Marsh but I noticed the cameras were clicking faster today. I also noticed there were more of them too. My brain pushed away the coincidence of Marsh running with me today and the on slew of cameras. This was my time of day to run all my problems away. I looked over at Marsh as more cameras appeared around the corner street. I slowed my pace and pulled my headphones out.

"Tell me."

Marsh caught his breath and took a sip of his water bottle.

"Marsh, please. I know this isn't a coincidence." I noticed people were staring now as the cameras got closer. I paid no mind.

"It's Mr. Styles. We are worried about him. He isn't doing well with the break up."

"Well, neither am I but you don't see me going out and getting drunk. I may not show the world I am hurting but every single day I cry over him. But...I also wake up every day and promise myself I am going to try and be happy even if it's for one second. Harry was the one who walked away from me. I practically begged for him that night but he left anyways. I refuse to made to beg for someone to love me." I didn't expect such a statement from myself in the midst of all these people but had I to lose?

Marsh looked down at the ground and nodded. "I understand, Ms. Emerson. He is still very much in love with you...I know this is overstepping my boundaries, but you two have a love that isn't something you see every day. My wife and I have been married for 15 years and we are still searching for the love you two found in a couple months."

I looked up at Marsh and fought back my tears. Every part of me wanted to see Harry but I readied myself for this day. "Marsh...I-I don't know if I can do that again."

"Just think about what I said, Ms. Emerson. Please, let's get you back home. People are starting to stare."

I looked around and there was a small crowd around us now. I nodded and quickly turned back towards home with Marsh at my heels.

When I was safely inside my apartment, I grabbed a towel and whipped my arms, neck, and face. I grabbed a water and took a sip. Marsh's words were still ringing in my ears. I knew I wasn't doing well with the breakup but how bad was Harry doing?