 Rhibear ~ Madam Solo ~ ❄ Showtunes > Everything ❄ ~ Accio Jedi ~ Gryffinclaw ~ Just a doll
14. Candlelight
Setting: the home or Norman and Cherie Carton; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Christmas 2088
(199 words)
Norman and Cherie sat, basking in the glow of candles left from their romantic dinner. Tomorrow Norman left to track down a dangerous dark wizard, so they were celebrating Christmas early.
After dinner and presents, Cherie went quiet. Norman saw tears on her face, shining in the candlelight. “I don’t want you to go…”
He held her, brushing away each tear. “I have to. It’s my job to protect-”
“Protect and serve, I know!” Norman blinked, taken aback by Cherie’s biting tone. Her expression softened. “Sorry, it’s just… every time you leave, I die a little. What if something happens to you? I’ll be all alone…”
Her tears turned into sobs. At a loss for words, he hugged her tighter. She shouldn’t have to be alone. Her family hadn’t died like his, They didn’t live far away. They were just across town, probably throwing a party.
Hiding his anger behind a reassuring smile, he said, “Nothing’s going to happen. It hasn’t yet, has it?”
“No, but this time feels different.” Cherie sniffled, tears ebbing.
“Look at me, Cherie.” He gently tilted her face upward. “I promise I’ll come home, no matter what happens.” A passionate kiss sealed the promise.
__________________ Old voices I had thought long since dead whisper of another life I might have led
If I could take that second chance, If I could make my life anew, If only dreams came true... |