It's a Heartache

Bonnie Tyler's "It's a Heartache" was playing on the jukebox. Lilly stared at the colourful machine, tracing her index finger around the lip of her wine glass. She told Helena, 'he said he isn't sure if he wants to be with someone.'

Helena looked at her old friend and said, 'why did he say that? What did you say to him then?'

'I said I would leave him alone if he prefers that. I don't know why. Am I such a lousy catch?'

'Honey, if I had a brother I would make him marry you,' Helena placed her hand over Lilly's, 'he has his reasons, right?'

'Right, but it fucking hurts. Len, every time I put my heart into a relationship, this happens,' Lilly said, her brows creased and her lips quivered. She drew her hand back and covered her face. 'I want this to work, but I don't want him to feel pressured,' Lilly said, her voice muffled and shaky.

Helena moved closer to Lilly and put her arms around her, 'I can tell he likes you a lot, you guys should talk things out.'

'I don't know how. I hate to appear needy. Dammit, he can leave me if he wants. I'm sick of this stupid dating shit.'

'Come on, I'm sure there's a solution.'

Lilly removed her hands and said quietly, 'Shouldn't love be able to conquer all? Or is that bullshit?'

Helena replied with a grin, 'yes that is.' Lilly smiled despite herself.

'I'm so confused,' Lilly sighed and finished her wine.

'If he isn't a decent guy, I would say forget about him, but he is. Besides, you guys are happy together,' Helena said gently, 'give yourselves time to think things over, okay?'

'We are doing that, ' Lilly replied, 'maybe I'm a pessimist, I think he's just not that into me,' and finished Helena's martini too.