I think I would like to live on beach, Dana declares having finally come to a rest and was now standing poised, staring out to sea. Will you come and live with me?

Shes almost childish in her innocence. Right now, everythings perfect and she doesnt pause to wonder when it will end. She doesnt wonder about the future. The fact that it will be good is a given to her. Her naivet is infectious I think because I am beginning to believe it too.

And what will we do with ourselves all day long? I ask her tenderly, closing in from behind to wind my arms around her slim waist, unconsciously nuzzling the soft skin of her neck. Tell me, what will we do on our beach?

After a moments pause, she turns to face me in my embrace. Leaning forward, she places a chaste kiss upon my nose. The touch is brief but before I know it, my mind is far away. Carried away in a swirl of fantastical visions of her and me, on our beach, strolling along the shore hands clasped. A perfect fit. Visions of our life, of our joy, of dream-come-trues. Of intimacy like I have never known.

I thought wed try being happy and in love. How does that sound to you?

I dont answer, just tug her closer to seal this dream she has presented to me with a kiss. Too good to be true. Impossible.

~~

I do need you.

The admission comes out unbidden. I arrive home tonight to find Shane in my apartment, sitting comfortably in the dark. Shes facing away from me, looking out the window. Im not quite sure what expect. Not quite sure why shes here. All I know is that she has to know the truth I hid from her before. I did owe her at least that much.

Its her turn to laugh. The laughter is humorless and bitter. Im reminded of the last time we were together. The twinge of pain I feel comes as a surprise. How I feel now, this is what she must have felt. No, that isnt true. She must have felt so much more because she left. And yet, shes back now. Im not sure I would have, had I been in the same situation.