The next morning I got on the first flight back to my home. I knew that my small Quebec cabin wouldn't be much better in healing my memories, as there had been so many made there as well, but at least it would be better than staying in Paris.
Boarding the plane, and sitting alone, I was painfully reminded that's exactly what I was. I was so alone in the world. I gazed out the window at the people scurrying about, living their everyday lives, knowing that they have at least one person in their lives that they could go to if they were sad or scared.
I never really had that until I had Francois. He made me feel remembered and he made sure to remind me every time I was with him that he loved me and that he was there for me. Even at the world meetings.
I smiled slightly. We always sat so far apart because we were seated where we are in the world. But even when there was bickering and tempers were high, he would always catch my eye, and we would have a moment of silent communication, him letting me know that my opinion wasn't forgotten by all.
As the plane took off, I watched the clouds go by. I was so used to constantly getting on and off planes, that the motion of it made me realize that I hadn't slept since Francois woke up. The calming, constant motion lulled me off to sleep just as the pilot was telling us to enjoy our flight.
X X X
I awoke from a restless sleep, full of dreams about Francois, just as we landed. The familiar beautiful sight of my home relaxed me. Stretching luxuriously, and strangely happy, I got off the plane, and took in the cool, crisp Canadian air.
The drive home was just as refreshing. It felt good to be home. Yes, I still missed Francois, and yes, we did have memories here, but none were as resounding. And when I was home, I was used to missing him.
Finally home, I dropped my keys onto the side table, and sighed, closing my eyes. I loved being home. I was perfectly at ease, and I was happy.
"Kuma! I'm home!"
I hated not being able to take him with me to meetings. But bringing a polar bear onto a plane with me would raise way to many questions. I heard him before I saw him. Grumbling under his breath and his nails clicking on the floor.
I scooped him up, and hugged him tight. I buried my face into his ruff and breathed in the musky scent that came with being a bear. He squirmed in my arms, and I set him down. That embrace was something I really needed.
My stomach rumbled and I looked down at the bear sitting on his haunches at my feet.
"Hungry?"
He nodded, and led the way into the kitchen. I was finally home, and Francois was finally out of my mind. For now.
