Love
Having him back was everything the twelve-year-old her could have wanted.
Bright and effervescent. Her entire world revolved around his light. If she stood close enough she felt as if she could almost harness what made him him.
It was almost too easy to lose herself in him. Sometimes she wondered if this was what it felt like to drown. Though he had been away for months his touch still sent shivers down her spine. She was still on edge when he kissed her, her body tense and nervous for what was to come.
His hands explored her body eagerly, his kisses making her pliable underneath him. She tried to match the fervor of pace. Faster and faster until he reached his own completion. He then whispered sweet words in her ear, reminding her how much he loved her. He loved her and she loved him. That was all she wanted, to love and be loved. As long as she had that it would be enough.
Yet when the sun rose she found herself alone.
It didn't hurt at first. She was used to this. Mechanically she prepared breakfast, cracking the eggs and slicing the last of the vegetables from her garden. She made the eggs the way he liked and extra servings of every dish in case he wanted seconds. The table was set for two. The sun climbed higher in the sky. She sat at the table.
Hopeful.
Anxious.
The hours ticked by and the clock struck noon. The food had long since grown cold. This was what she'd agreed to. This was to be expected. As long as he loved her that was all she needed. However, as she stared at the cold spread in front of her, her heart twisted in her chest.
Love was all she needed...