Act 20: Eros

            "You were right Psyche," said Eros, sitting up Psyche's lifeless body, "I would love you no matter what you look like. It was your beauty that attracted me to you, but it was your personality that made me stay. We'll have to work your nosiness though."

            Eros had been watching Psyche since she'd first entered the cave to the Underworld. He was feeling much better now, and wanted to make sure Psyche would complete her last task with ease. He was about to reveal himself to her when she opened the box and was overtaken by the clouds of Stygian sleep.

            Eros picked up the box and lid. He managed to gather the clouds back into the box. "Psyche," Eros said softly as he gave her a little shake. "Psyche, wake up."

            He shook her again. Psyche groaned and opened her eyes. "E-Eros," Psyche stuttered. "You're here! But why? Did you—I thought you were sick!"

            Eros laughed. He hugged Psyche tightly. He had forgotten what it felt like to hold her this way. "I'm fine now," he said. "And I had to make sure you were okay." Eros kissed her. Feeling Psyche's warm lips made his body tingle with euphoria.

            "I've missed you Eros," said Psyche. "Let's just stay here for a while."

            "We can't," said Eros. "You have to return that box to my mother."

            "Oh, right." The couple reluctantly got up. "Will you come with me?" asked Psyche.

            Eros shook his head. "I can't," he said.

            Eros tried to ignore the look of disappointment on Psyche's face. He reached out to caress her dirty cheek. "I'm proud of you Psyche," he said. "You were able to show my mother that you're not just a mere mortal. You've literally gone to the Underworld and back for me. I'm sorry for reacting so quickly that night. I should have been the one standing up to my mother. I promise you that we will be together after this.

            "But you have to go now," Eros continued. "Go give my mother the box. And just act normally. Don't let on that I met with you. I'm going to visit someone who may be able to help our situation." Eros kissed Psyche again. "Now go. My mother's waiting. I'll meet you at my mother's temple."

            "Okay," said Psyche, pulling Eros close for a hug. "I'll be waiting for you."

            Eros watched Psyche as she ran off. Okay, he thought. Now I have to do my part.