Since I have been asked to make these a little longer, I'm trying a slightly different approach, let me know if you love it or hate it :o)

Anonymous: sorry for the wait, I'll try and update the next part a lot sooner. I'm glad to know that you really like it and check frequently for updates :o) Its great to know that my works appreciated and in such demand. Maggie and Delos should be coming soon . . . Oh and I hope you like the longer version!

Aglaia: Here's the next update and I'm glad that you were waiting for it, I hope you like and thanks for reviewing :o)

Tamashii: Maggie and Delos will be coming shortly . . . after all they are my fav couple as well as Ash, Mare, Rashel, Quinn, Jez, Morgy and . . . oh well all them :o) Anyway here's Mare for ya!

Just enjoy and let me know which version you prefer . . . this one or the previous types!



MARY-LYNNETTE

As I sit on the manzanita-covered hill staring at the stars I feel truly relaxed for what could be the first time in a long while. It's been a while since I have allowed myself the pleasure to partake in my favourite past time. Sitting here stargazing gives me a chance to think and unwind. School started a couple of months ago and I've been busy ever since. New classes, new teachers and some new faces, not to mention a whole lot of work and assignments that have to be done.

Gazing up at the darkened sky I let my eyes linger on Andromeda before quickly passing to Vega. The queen of the summer still shines brightly and I can't prevent the stab of pain I feel in my heart or the tears that fill my eyes.

I miss him so much that it hurts physically as well as emotionally. I try not to think about him. I busy myself in my studies and helping my father and Claudine at home, but seeing Mark and Jade together brings it all back. There so happy that I cant help but wonder . . . what if? What if I had went with him or made him stay? Or what if he has met someone new and doesn't want me any more! What if he decides he doesn't want to change? What if . . .

The list goes on and on and I have to remind myself that he does loves me and that he will return. I know he will. I am his soulmate . . . his other half. I just hope that he loves and longs for me as much as I do for him.

I feel lost without him, so much that I wake in the middle of the night begging for his touch or for a simple word to ease my suffering and heartache.

I remember everything about him, the way he looked- Lanky and elegant with Ash-blonde hair that always fell in the way of his slightly tilted wicked eyes. Clean cut features; smooth silky skin and sensuous lips. A well muscled and toned body, with strong arms that made me feel safe and secure whenever he held me close. The way he spoke- softly with a slight teasing tone or snapping with a steel edge. The way he walked-gracefully and predatory. Muscles moving with ease and grace, head held high with confidence and eyes constantly assessing situations. The way his mind sparkled with ever colour of the spectrum and the way I felt his emotions when he spoke to me, telling me he loved me.

But most of all I remember the way he kissed me. My first real kiss. Soft full lips against my own making my whole body shake and taking my breath away. The way the soulmate connection intensified and the first time I realised that it was only unpleasant if you were afraid.

It is only when I remember our first kiss that I realise I am crying. Heavy sobs are shaking my body and tears are cascading down my cheeks. I want to wipe them away but I don't.

When I suddenly feel like I cannot take anymore, n old quotation surfaces in my mind and I cant help but smile.

I don't know how I will survive a whole year without him. I'll just have to live each day as it arrives and I'll be counting the days until he returns.

Wherever Ash is, we'll both be looking at the same sky and I won't cry anymore and I wont grieve. I'll smile and remember the time we spent together and I'll look forward to seeing him in ten months.

"Don't cry because it's over, Smile because it happened."

I love you Ash Redfern . . . always and forever.

~~Authors note: Well there it is, let me know if you like it written this way or if you prefer the previous technique. I personally think that the shorter versions were more powerful and intense . . but let me know what you like~~~*

PLEASE REVIEW . . . ITS GREATLY APPRECIATED :O)