“No, that's not quite it,” I said. “It's more like... you know, anyone could sleep with me – someone too drunk to be picky, someone who is getting paid... My problem is, after Lynette abandoned me, I lost a major relationship. That's what is missing in my life. If you hadn't interfered, Lynette would probably still be here, as my girlfriend, or wife. No, I don't think it's just getting laid. I have lost an intimate relationship.”
“But how can I repay or replace-” Jade began, but then the implications hit her.
“Yeah,” I agreed. “That's the problem. How on earth can you repay me a girlfriend? I mean, if you were really serious about repaying what you owe me...”
Jade sighed. “Then I'd have to be your girlfriend.”
“I guess so. And since you're not willing to do that-”
“Now hang on,” Jade interrupted. “What are we talking about here? You've lost your confidence, your self-esteem. That keeps you from having a good relationship, which then lowers your confidence. It's a Catch-22.”
“Yeah, I'm screwed. Or not. You know what I mean.”
“So if.. and I mean if I can, you know, fill in as your girlfriend until you get your mojo back, then you could break out of the cycle and I'd have paid you back, right?”
“That... sounds like it makes sense. But would you really do that? I mean, I'm a guy and you...”
“I know, I know,” she said, waving her hand. “But this is serious. I really screwed you over, I messed up your life, and I owe you big time. I should be willing to sacrifice to repay you. I owe you that.”
“But have you thought through what you're offering? What being my girlfriend means?”
Jade was silent a few minutes. “Yes. Yes I have. And while I can't say I'm super excited about it, I'm willing.”
“Oh gee, thanks,” I sneered. “You'll tolerate me out of duty. Can't tell you how special that makes me feel. Maybe this was a fucking mistake.”
“No, Ron, I didn't mean it like that,” she said, suddenly gentle and compassionate. Moving up next to me, she put her hand softly on my cheek and turned my face towards hers. “I would be honored to be your girlfriend. At least until you see how special you are and are confident enough to go back out there and find someone... someone more your type. OK?”
“But you're not super excited about it?”
“Well, have a heart. I'm a lesbian. Some aspects of the relationship will be... challenging... scary... for me.”
“Yeah, I get that. But you'll do it?”
“Yes,” Jade sighed. “I'll do it.”
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