Watching Him Sleep 3
She heard hesitant footfalls; felt a hand touch her elbow. Blue eyes sought hers.
She heard the careful question.
Standing by the still, silent sleeper, she willed her voice to say the words she always said.
'I'm fine' shouldn't be this difficult: One little phrase, just two syllables.
She willed her voice to say the words that would wipe away pity, compassion - the understanding in his eyes.
She could not let this man watch her break.
She willed her body to turn, and her chin to lift. She willed her eyes to meet his squarely.
She thought if she could do these things, then maybe she could say the words that would prove she was strong.
Blue eyes found hers.
"Oh, Jim," she said, before his arms closed around her and the first sob came.