I stared at the graph and nodded as a lump filled my throat. It was working. I was getting better.

“So for this week, I want you to put one foot on the running board and the other foot inside the truck.”

I stilled, panic rising at the thought of getting in it. “For how long?”

Dr. Circe glanced at her notebook. “You don’t have to hold it. Just see if you can put your foot inside. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. We want you to be successful but still make progress.”

“Right.” Maybe I should have left that damn thing in storage instead of having the flatbed deliver it.

“Also, it’s time to start talking about the interpersonal dynamics you’re struggling with. You’ve mentioned Paisley in most of our sessions. Are you feeling up to opening that dialogue yet?” She watched me carefully, but there was no judgment in her tone or gaze, which was one of the reasons I liked her so much.

“I was actually thinking about inviting her—everyone, really—for Memorial Day weekend. I think I might finally have the words I need to say to her.” Some of them had come flying out at Jackson that night in the kitchen, and others had trickled in while I filled out that worksheet. Bottom line was that I loved my best friend, and if I didn’t at least try to explain my feelings, I was going to lose her.

“That’s great to hear. And I know you’re not quite ready for the imagined conversation with Will yet, but maybe next week?” She smiled optimistically.

Right. No.

“Maybe,” I answered. “I do have one question, since I know we have to get to the story before I head home.”

“How can I help?” she asked.

“Jackson…” My mouth opened and shut a few times as I struggled to find the words. “Am I using him?”

“How?”

I shifted in my seat. “I really like him, and my feelings for him get bigger every time I see him, or talk to him, or get a text. But am I just throwing my feelings for Will at him? Am I getting better because I’m rebounding?”

Her eyes softened. “Are you in love with Jackson?”

I balked. “No. At least, I don’t think I am.” I was wild about the guy, but I wasn’t going to start throwing the L word in. “But I could see myself falling in love with him. In the future, that is.”

“That’s fair. Now tell me, do you still love Will?” Her voice softened.

My heart hurt. It wasn’t the same level of pain that it once had been, but the feelings were still there. “Yes,” I whispered. “It’s a little softer, though, like someone turned down the stereo in the car and now I can hear other sounds, too.”