Kieron sits on a rock, staring off into the vast wasteland. He’s made a small fire, the only light in the otherwise gloomy night. His mouth is set in a hard line, his jaw clenched. I can see he’s bracing himself for what I’m about to tell him.
He doesn’t flinch as I sit beside him. I reach out, and immediately his soft hand surrounds mine. Finally, he turns to look at me, and the love in his eyes wraps around my heart. Without the faintest hint of judgment or condemnation, he searches my face for clues.
“Thank you,” I whisper.
He swallows. “For what?” he asks hoarsely.
I lean closer to him. “For believing in me.”
His eyes sparkle, and a small smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. He places one hand behind my head, pulling me to him. The sweet reunion of our lips douses the last embers of hate raging within me.
“I believe in us,” he whispers in my ear.
He rises to his feet, pulling me with him. “I have to go now. Finish this once and for all. My contract expires at dawn.”
I almost laugh. “Good thing you’re not cutting it close or anything.”
He wraps his arms around my waist, pulling me close for another kiss. I don’t want him to move, I don’t want him to leave my arms, not now, not ever. But I know I have to let him go this one last time.
I know it’s okay. He’ll be back for me.
For us.
The End