Dream On

Dreams lost. Hopes dashed. Everything can be taken from you in one instant. We were going to build our life together. We were going to move in together. One day, we'd get married.

Roman and Beth drove through the crowded streets of Los Angeles, exchanging glances and smiles every so often. As they headed out into the country, Roman turned his eyes from the windshield and leaned in to kiss his lover softly. As they pulled away, Beth gasped and yelled, "Look out!"

That's all dust in the wind now.

If only the other driver hadn't been drinking.

If only I hadn't chosen that particular road for our drive.

Two words fit this situation. "If only…"

I walk into our living room, where you're laying on the couch surrounded by a mess of empty beer bottles and newspapers. You fell asleep with the TV on. I glance at the screen and see a news report about my accident.

Died on impact… The news reporter says in a bored tone.

I died on impact…

They show a picture of the accident. The car is hardly recognizable. The driver's side door is smashed in all the way to the passenger's seat. A tear runs down my face.

If only…

Beth crawled from the wreckage of the two cars that were now smashed together. She made her way over to the driver's side of the car and leaned in the car; the door had been ripped off. She reached in and grasped Roman's body. "Roman! Oh, God, no!" She was sobbing now, as she stared into his lifeless brown eyes, which had once been so full of life and love.

"You promised you'd never leave me…"

You shiver as the air conditioner blasts on.

I grab a blanket off the back of the couch and gently lay it across your shivering form. Then, ever so slowly, I lean down and kiss you gently on the forehead.

You smile in your sleep, and I turn to leave. Looking back, I see your smile fade and a tear slide down your cheek.

I smile sadly and leave the house.

Don't worry, my love. It's not forever, I promise.

I'll be with you.

Always.

END