it's a sad feeling

What was Ollie to do now? He stayed in on Valentine's day. It seemed his Dad and Betty were certain he was ill.

"Do you want us to call Val? We could go and bring her here?" Betty was sure her mom wouldn't mind. Besides, it hadn't started snowing yet.

"But, but it's so cold." Ollie wasn't certain how cold it was, but he felt the bitter poisoned cold. No way could he bring himself to see her. Besides, she could read him like a book. She would know. She had to know by now that things weren't right with them. He wouldn't take her calls. He wouldn't text.

And there was Gabby. He knew she wouldn't call him. He knew what a cold heart she had. Why on earth had he spent the night with her? They could never be friends again. It was as if someone was out to curse him. Perhaps, he was his own worst enemy.

It felt as if his throat swelled up and he could barely manage to talk.

"I-I think I should..should let Valentina go," Ollie told his father later when he was helping him with the dishes. Betty made a lovely dinner of pot roast with all the trimmings.

"What?" His dad looked at him funny as if he might be out of his mind.

"I really-" Ollie held his breath for a moment. "I really think she needs to date, other people."

"Oh, it's you, who thinks YOU need to date more." His father poked him straight in the chest.  Ollie was taller now, but not quite as tall as his dad.

"Huh?" Ollie shot his dad a look. Then cleared his throat. He shook his head, no. He knew Valentina deserved better. No way, could he bring himself to tell his Dad about his mistake. He felt horrible hurting Valentina like this.

When he shut his eyes, he only wanted to think of Valentina, but he could only see was that peculiar smile of Gabby's. Her skin. Ollie felt light headed. He felt ashamed. Suddenly, he wished he could have a do-over. He promised himself he'd only think of Valentina. Yet, he remembered he'd failed. Just what sort of man was he?