I Know

By Bren Ren

-o-o-o-

“What I was going to say was—”

“I know.”

Their eyes locked, and the game of silent communication commenced.

What I was going to say was… I don’t want to lose you. A whimper just barely choked back.

I know. A single swallow, brief and hard.

What I was going to say was... I’d rather die than lose you, too. A short sigh.

I know. An answering sigh.

What I was going to say was… I love you. A tilt of the head.

I know. A dip of the head.

What I was going to say was… Don’t you dare die on me now. A meeting of the eyes, strong and fierce.

I know. Eyes locked, hackles raised.

What I was going to say was… I need you. Desperation.

I know. Resolution.

What I was going to say was… Please don’t die. A plea.

I know. Acceptance.

“C’mere.” An embrace, as though their very lives depended on it.

Only fate, time, duty, honor, regulations, and commitments held them apart.