It has been two weeks since the Fae war and the people in Bon Temps believe I am recovering from a horrific car accident. The truth is I had been tortured and nearly killed by a couple of evil fairies. I know that sounds strange but it's true. I've actually got a bit of fairy in me, too.

It's been quiet around here for the last couple of weeks. My closest neighbour, Bill, is still recovering from Silver Poisoning. He's a vampire. Pam, also a vampire, tells me he should be up and around in a couple of nights, so that makes me feel better. Amelia, my roommate and also a witch, has been mourning the death of her boyfriend, Tray. He was a werewolf. I have seen her become more herself in the last few days, and was glad to see her getting over her grief.

I thought how odd it was that after being ridiculed and thought of as crazy Sookie my whole life, I had found such wonderful friends in the supernatural world. As I made my way out onto the porch with a mug of coffee, I thought of all the people who loved me and all those I loved. Naturally my thoughts turned to Eric and the last night I had seen him.

After returning home from the war, Eric spent the first few nights with me, and I was glad he was there. I had needed the sense of safety I got from laying in his arms.

On the third night I was ripped from sleep, by a very vivid nightmare. I bolted into sitting position, screaming, as I ripped myself from the grasp of the terrifying memory. I instantly felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. Eric was sending comfort through the bond. I let it flow through me, but I also felt some of his own anguish, and knew that he battling with his own feelings. For a brief minute, I didn't know what was mine, and what was his. They were entwined into an emotional knot. I knew what I needed to do.

"Eric," I whispered, laying back down and turning to face him.

"Mmmm," He mumbled back as he ran a soothing hand through my hair.

"Thank-you," I told him.

"Anytime," he answered softly.

"I love you for wanting to stop all the fear and pain I feel, but you need to let me feel them." His eyes squinted together in confusion as he listened. "If I don't feel all these things, I can't get over them. They'll always be there. I need to learn to deal with them and hopefully, I'll come out on the other side a stronger person. I think you need to go back to Shreveport and take care of your bar."

"I do not wish to see you in emotional pain. I am trying to help you to feel strong and safe." He answered.

"I know and I appreciate it but I need to sort through this without the confusion of the bond."

"You are sending me away?" I could feel the hurt through the bond and hear it in his voice.

"I think you should go back to your bar and your duties as Sheriff. When I have healed enough both physically and emotionally, there is a long talk that we still need to have. I think we have put it off long enough."

He nodded in response and pulled me closer and I fell asleep in his strong arms.

I awoke the next morning alone. I knew Eric wasn't in the hidey hole in my spare room. He was gone, I was alone. I cried for the first time since I came home from the hospital. I cried until I had no more tears left in me. The healing had begun.

When I was done crying, I noticed the rose and note on my nightstand. As I sniffed at the rose, I read the short note.

Lover,

I have returned back to Shreveport and will return to my duties here. Take as much time as you need. Heal as you need to. When you are ready we will talk. I will answer all of your questions. I will explain everything.

Heal quickly my bonded. I will be waiting.

'E'

That was almost two weeks ago. I have not spoken to Eric since then. I missed him terribly. Pam comes by every couple of days so I know he is getting reports on my progress. I have had the time I needed. It was time to go see Eric.