The sun is setting as I walk arm-in-arm with Bill along the beach. His arm is around my shoulder, gripping it tightly, as if not wanting to let me go. The tide is going out, but one final wave crashes up against our ankles. I shiver at the feeling of the cold water, and Bill rubs my arm, moving his hand up and down it.
Bill says one of his lame jokes, and I laugh dryly, pretending to find it funny.
The distance is foggy, but I can make out two figures who seem to be together. Then I realize that it's him. I have missed him so much. I still love him, though he pushed me away. He was never really like that. Never. I escape Bill's grasp and start running toward him. He sees me running, and starts running for me.
When we finally reach each other, we embrace ferociously, never wanting the moment to end. I kiss him, but instead of feeling his soft lips, I feel something plushy.
I open my eyes and see my lips pressed up against my pillow.
That, the happiest part of my night, was all just a dream.