“It was.” Evan cleared his throat before continuing. “Blaire, he… Steve wants us to take things to the next level. And well, I said yes?” His voice lifted on that last word, almost like he was asking my permission.

“How do you feel about that, Evan?”

He let out a long sigh. “Nervous. I’ve been living in that dark closet for so long that it feels strange to step into the light and finally be myself. But it also feels good… freeing.”

I couldn’t help the smile that took over my face at that last word. “You deserve it Evan. You deserve to live in the light. To be free and in love, and I’ll support you in whatever you choose to do.”

“Even if I—crap, Blaire. Even if—”

I read between the lines. “You want a divorce?” I asked quietly.

“God, Blaire. I am so sorry. I will pay child support on Carrie and make sure you’re both taken care of, I swear. I don’t want you to think that I’m abandoning you.” The tenor of his voice rose as he talked, and I could hear the worry edging every syllable.

“Evan, calm down. It’s fine. We both knew this was a temporary situation. It’s lasted at least three years longer than we expected.”

“I know, and I love you and Carrie so much, Blaire. I really do. You’ll always be family to me. You can stay in the apartment, and I’ll continue to pay the rent. Steve and I will find someplace close by so I can still see you and Carrie.”

“Actually, um, I have news, too.” I took a deep breath before blurting, “Axel wants me and Carrie to move in with him.”

“Whoooa! Someone has been a busy girl,” he teased. “I guess you dazzled him with your sexual prowess Monday night.”

“Oh hush,” I said with a giggle. “It’s been so long that I’m lucky I remembered where everything went.”

“I’m sure that big hunk reminded you. He looks like he knows exactly where everything goes.”

“He reminded me,” I admitted. “Several times.” I was aware that it was a little weird to be talking to my husband about having sex with another man, but Evan doubled as my best friend.

“Have mercy! So, you’re moving in with Axel?”

“I don’t know, Evan; I’m so damned confused. My heart says yes. My body damn sure says yes. But I just don’t want to rush into anything.”

“There’s no rush, Blaire. You take your time and make the right decision for you and Carrie.”

“I will. I love you, and I’m so happy for you, Evan. Tell Steve I said he’s a bastard for stealing my husband.”

“Blaire!”

My whole body shook with laughter. “I’m kidding! Tell him congratulations, too.”