He still loves Elizabeth.

I started seeing Jessica regularly. Without my realizing it, she began to take Elizabeth's place by my side. I spent less time on the phone to California and more time hanging out with my down-the-hall friend with benefits. Elizabeth seemed to be moving on, too. I even got the hint that she was only seeing one guy, now. We spent the night with each other more often than not. But then, one Tuesday morning, everything changed.

I was with Jessica. She had the news on as we were getting ready for class, and so we both saw it. One plane, then two, like something from a movie. Unreal. As it sank in, we fell into each other's arms and cried. I don't remember how we ended up like that. But, what I did know, was that I was holding Jessica and thinking about Elizabeth.

I felt stupid and selfish for letting this national tragedy make up my mind for me. But I knew that I could not love two women equally. It was cruel to try.

That evening, I was on the phone to Elizabeth for the first time in a few days.

"I needed to tell you," I fumbled for words, "I can't love anyone but you. It's always going to be you. I just... I need you to know that."

Without hesitation, Elizabeth answered, "I love you, too."

After that, I had to end things with Jessica. To my great relief, she suffered no illusions about who we were to each other. I felt better, now that I didn't think that I was leading her on.