“So you think everything’s going to be ok, hey.”

“Yup. Everything will be just fine.”

“What makes you so sure?”

“Why wouldn’t it be?”

“Cause life always throws you a curveball.”

“So. Throw it back.”

“What if it’s too big to pick up.”

“Then kick it.”

“Up this way,” he panted. “I can see the opening. We’re almost there.”

She couldn’t take another step. Sorrow filled her soul and spilled over her face. He knew that look, saw it before a million years ago. His face softened and he reached for her.

“I know you think you can’t make it, but you can. I’ve watched you climb higher mountains than this.”

He held her close, eternity washing over them. Finally she drew away.

“I can make it now, just don’t let go.”

They played in each other’s world, searching for warmth. Finally, the mountains gave way and they met in the valley of hope.

“What are you looking for?” he asked.

She paused, looked softly into his eyes, then very quietly responded. “Humans are sexual creatures. I know this and feel impulses too. What I’m looking for is someone who is respectful enough to want more for me.”

“Actually I was just thinking,” she said.

“That can’t be good,” he teased back.

“Oh, it’s very good, just you wait,” she cooed.

His smile was starlight. “I can’t wait.”

She sat beside him, just close enough to feel him breathe and then spoke slowly. Are you sure?

He sighed heavily and stared straight into the sun. I’m not sure about anything anymore.

She stared at her toes. What can I do?

Is patience too much to ask?

“I find myself lying in bed at night, just wanting you.”

“That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me.”

“Really? I have more.”

“I think I can only handle one a day.”

“Oh. Do you want a preview of tomorrow’s?”

“I’d rather savour today’s.”

“It’s hard to be patient,” she whispered.

He sighed. “But it’s all we’ve got.”

“I’m not sure…” she started.

He touched her face. “Don’t worry, it will happen.”

“Do you really want it to?”

The tide rose between their eyes. He spoke bravely. “More than ever.”

“What is the matter with you?” she asked.

“I’m afraid I’m losing my grip and it feels like the world is shifting,” he replied.

“Oh, is that all?”

“That’s not big enough?” he asked.

She pulled him close. “The world is shifting.  Go with it.” 

“I wasn’t thinking about anything,” he said.

She looked straight into his eyes. “Not the answer I was looking for.”

“Give me a break. You don’t consume every waking moment of my day. I do have other interests,” he said.

“Still not the right answer,” she said.

His shoulders relaxed. “But when I think of you, it makes me happy.”

“Now we’re getting somewhere,” she said.