Comfort

I saw him the moment I stepped into the hall - settled at the far left of the dining area,
beside the huge aquarium.
He saw me almost at the same time and for the fleetest moment our eyes met and held,
I caught myself in time, and hurriedly pushed the pair of sun glasses back to place.
I tried to reassure myself that the shades of gray could conceal the pain I feel inside.
He stood, his broad smile lighting his face instantly, and extended his hand.
"Hi, I'm sorry I'm late - " I said, grasping his hand.
"It doesn't matter," he shrugged. "I just got here myself," he added, pulling a chair.
I took the seat he offered and looked at him through the eye glasses as he seated himself opposite me.
"So, how are you?" he asked with a smile.
I shrugged. "I'm okay," I managed a weak smile. "I'm fine," I added and regretted it.
I resented the way I obviously choked on the words.
He sighed. "I don't know why you do this to yourself --" he sounded almost angry.
"Please.." I pleaded.
"Why do you waste your time on that jerk?" he clenched his fist tightly.
"Look at you. Can't you see how incredible you are - " he stopped himself abruptly,
as if he had not meant to say the words out loud.
Surprised, I searched his eyes and he met my gaze unflinchingly.
Here is a guy whose seen the worst of me and still manages to call me incredible.
Touched by his words, I wept. Tears spilled forth, running down my cheeks before I could brush them away.
My hands trembled uncontrollably, until he caught and held them warmly into his.
"Would it be the end of the world for you if he stops loving you, Cy?" he asked earnestly.
Cy02.22.07

On Responsibilities

"So how are you?" he asked.
"I am tired," I admitted.
"Aren't we all?" he said.
I sighed.
"Why are responsibilities so heavy?" I asked.
"How come they don't get lighter, ever?"
"Because when they do, they become merely chores," he answered.
Cy02.05.07