FIRE
Jared held me in his arms for a long time. No words were exchanged as we simply immersed ourselves with the presence of each other. His arms tightened around me as he heard me sob on his chest.
"Mel." He whispered. We stood alone in the middle of the clearing. All we both could hear were my sobs... my tears of joy that finally, he returned back home... he returned back home to me.
Now I knew how he felt when I left him. The pain he had to go through waiting for me to return safely. The strong face he had to carry for Jamie despite the crumbling feeling inside him.
Jared...
"I'm sorry." Was all I could say to him. I didn't dare look in his eyes. I stared at the drench on his clothing where my tears made their mark.
"For what?" He cupped my face as he tried to make me look at him. His hands sparked heat on my skin that I gave up and stared at those beautiful eyes. He stared back, as if confirming. Yes, I was back. There was no silver gleam in my eyes.
He smiled. He knew. Instantly.
"What took you so long?" He grinned and stroked my cheek.
"I tried to come back soon. But at least I made a new friend."
He nodded.
"I love you."
Jared smiled warmly at me. He held me close enough that I already felt his breath.
"Don't punch me this time, Mel."
Slowly, his lips touched mine. I gave in willingly and I heard him groan from longing.
We could've easily burned the place down.
