I stood at the side of the bed watching my lithe beauty sleep. She looked so content, so peaceful. The soft white silk clung to her skin, laying gathered up at her hip as one leg had moved out of the covers to fall on top of the sheets. A hint of a smile touched her lips and her body lay twisted in them. So peaceful.
I could not give in to my soul, I could not give her myself without telling her everything. She had to know what her mother was doing, what she had threatened. She had to know Demeter would take everyone to hell to gain her precious daughter. I sighed, I had to break it to her. No matter the consequence, I had to let her make her own mind. My heart shattered knowing I could not let her die for my foolish love, no I could not do that. I would give her up to make her happy, to keep breath in that sweet form. I could not curse her to live as I did. I would not, and I would not let her make that decision. For once, I'd have to deny my needs and give her what she needed even if it wasn't what she wanted.
My brain rolled possiblities through its thoughts, but the only thing I could promise was to give myself for a few more days. Zeus had given me that, telling me the mortals could make it on their stores, even the god's own precious hordes were being dipped into to provide for those gracing the earthern dirt. I could do no less, I could not sacrifice everyone else. I was King of the Underworld, everyone's living nightmare, and if I had to I would become hers to keep her presence alive. It was a solid decision, but my eyes burned, my heart ached, my throat constricted. I'd be strong for her.
I bent to my knees, memorizing every inch of her face, of her pleasant smell, her lovely body. I reached out, moving a soft tendril of hair from her neck. Her eyes drifted open, taking me in, smiling. I sighed, it would not be easy.
"Good morning, my love." she whispered.
I smiled, "Morning, my lovely." Her brow furrowed, but she licked her lips and I could watch no longer. Standing, I made my way swiftly to the door to escape her enchantment. "I have taken the day off, there's some things I should show you."
She had sat up, obviously confused, but I could not force myself to look at her. "That's wonderful, we can spend all day together."
A sorrowful smile passed my lips, "Yes, I shall spend as much time as you wish today by your side." Then I walked out, finding myself on my throne, my head buried in my hands.