The room was still and quiet but for the rhythmic tick of the clock in the corner. Across the room was a tree; its branches filled with glass orbs hand-painted in blue and silver, hanging alongside pinecones glittering in the firelight.
His hands were pressed against the sides of the dusty rose cup in an attempt to warm them as he sipped the quickly cooling tea. Long blond hair, usually pulled back away from his face, now hung loose around his shoulders. Crystal blue eyes always full of life and love, now sad and uncertain. Ever gentle fingers setting the teacup on the table and tracing the grain of the wood.
After a minute, he shut his eyes and allowed a sob to escape. He buried his face in his hands and shook with silent tears.
Nearly an hour later, he was on the verge of sleep.
Outside, the wind had picked up and brought a storm with it. A lone traveler struggled against the gale and up the path to the small building. He made it to the door and knocked quickly.
The man at the table slowly sat up and dried his eyes.
A second knock.
He walked across to the door and cracked it open.
The stranger entered and removed his cloak. "Sorry I'm late."
"I was starting to think you weren't coming at all..."
"Lucius," the visitor said, tipping his friend's chin up, "I will never forget you."
"Thank you, Raymond."