Beloved, Part Two
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She smells of the sun. Warm radiance that washes over me like a foamy wave on the sea, tinged with sweet rose and exotic jasmine. She is the Star, the light shining in my sky. She is the sun, which bathes me in its warmth. She is the inky blanket of night that shrouds me in its subtle, shimmering perfection. She is the moon, and without her I would crumble to dust and blow away in the wind. She soothes my every hurt with a gentle touch.

"Thou art as wise as thou art beautiful"
Mid N Dr, Act iii, Sc.1

Cyndia sat for her portrait again, as she had so many times before.

It's nearly finished. Pegasus broke the comfortable almost-silence.

Cyndia stretched gracefully and stood. She moved to where Pegasus stood, and casually leaned on him. He took comfort in her presence, her reassuring touch.

Mr. Crawford, sir. The voice came from the doorway. It was the retainer of the house, a pleasant older man by the name of Thomson.

Yes, Thomson? Pegasus turned his attention from the radiant beauty before him to look at the man in the grey and black suit.

There's a message for you, sir.

Pegasus held out a hand. Thank you. Thomson bowed slightly and handed the painter an envelope.

Well? What is it? Cyndia demanded, curiosity getting the better of her.

The silver-haired young man cut open the envelope and unfolded the letter. He scanned it's contents, and frowned. Apparently I've been called off on some business for my father. I'm supposed to leave in two days.

Cyndia gaped incredulously. she said. You have to leave now? Now, when you're nearly finished. She clenched a fist. Ooh, when I get ahold of him... She stalked out, Pegasus' gaze following her. He smiled and shook his head. Cyndia's temper did occasionally get the better of her. Never with him, though. For him, she had infinite patience.

He sighed, cleaned off his brushes, covered his paints, and followed after her.