My Warrior ~ My Bard
A Story of Longing, Love, and Hope
Gabrielle awoke in the arms of her true love, her soul mate, and was able to fool herself, just for a moment, that this amazing woman, holding her tightly, felt the same way.
As Gabrielle gazed upon the peaceful contours of Xena's face, the creases became deeper, until the tranquil expression had changed into a mask of confusion and pain. Gabrielle absolutely could not stand to see her beloved Xena like this, especially when her shoulders began to tremble, and a tear rolled out of her eye, then another.
Gabrielle rubbed Xena's stomach, right where her hand had been all night, caressing in comforting circles, while her hand stroked her forehead, and wiped away the tears. Gabrielle's lips seemed to move of their own accord, and she pressed her lips lightly to Xena's forehead.
But her lips were unsatisfied; they took on a life of their own and kissed Xena's cheeks, one by one, then her chin, planting one right at the corner of her mouth. While Gabrielle leaned in to kiss her again, Xena opened her eyes.
The first thing she saw were the caring green eyes of her best friend staring worriedly into her own, and a perfect pair of lips about to kiss her own.
Gabrielle, however, saw the warrior princess open her eyes, and drew her mouth back abruptly.
"Xena!" Gabrielle said softly, concernedly, "You were making noises in your sleep, you – you started crying and you looked like you were in pain, and, and-"
"It's alright Gabrielle," The warrior woman smiled radiantly. "Thank you."
The two women shared a look and Xena stood up. Gabrielle almost couldn't make herself let go...
