Lexi became the ideal; sweet, caring, thoughtful, polite. At a time Jay had his ideal, had the relationship, the life and for a short while everything seemed to be going his way. Though it didn't last, the relationship, the effect Lexi had on Jay, however, did. The regret was letting her go, urging her to move on and helping her into the arms of that someone. Maude is the opposite; discordant, i

  “So let me make sure I understand.” I whisper looking down at my fists balled so tight my knuckles are white, “I can choose to stay but be miserable.” Without even looking I know my mother sends me a pointed look. “You can choose to stay and be well taken care of.” My mother’s voice portrays this like it’s likeable, preferable.