THINGS WILL CHANGE

Rebecca’s story The quickness with which he told me this made me realize he wasn’t kidding. He was still gazing into the distance over my shoulder. I could feel his heavy breathing in the back of my head. I twisted in his arms until I was facing him. My eyes begged for an explanation. Tears slowly formed and threatened to roll down my already burned cheeks. I wanted to keep myself strong, but the weight of what he had just said was pressing my heart so hard that not only could I barely breathe, but I was having a hard time making a coherent sentence. I stood like a rock, motionless despite everything. Digging my fingernails deep into his arms, I was seeking support so I wouldn’t collapse. It must have been a few good minutes before I took my first breath and wrapped my arms around his neck. I bet he already knew my answer because he hugged me back. His hug was so full of meaning, love and warmth, but I also felt a little fear. Holding me closer to his chest was like he never wanted to