The Crest

Their words were more tender this time; their time together more ephemeral. With each passing day, their shared memories waned, but the love shared between two people could never be lost, could it? True love smolders in the campfire at night only to rekindle when most needed.

“Comment es-tu mon cheri?” How are you my darling?” he asked.

“Je désire ardemment ton étreinte.” I long for your embrace, she said.

“They’re coming.”

“I know.”

“You must prepare. You need to organize the researchers and the workers. They must defend FORC.”

“I’m afraid.”

“Be strong, my dear. They depend on you.”

“But how. Some days I tremble. I can barely keep myself under control in public.”

“Have faith. Think of me. If you feel weak or sick, think of me. I am here for you always, my love”

“I know you are. There is a void in my life without you.”

“Remember our first hike together?”

“Yes.”

“Sahalie waterfalls.”

“I remember the mist in our faces. You held my hand.”

“You were so beautiful on that day,” he said.

“Thank you, my love.”

“Memories bind us.”

“I’d forgotten. I try to forget more and more. It’s too painful to remember.”

“This will pass, my dear, this will pass. Happiness will return.”

“Will it?” she asked.

There was a pause. She could not hear his voice. She thought he was gone. And then he was back.

“Use the Empath Army.”

“The vets?”

“Yes, they know what to do. Talk to them. I must go now my love.”

“No. Don’t go, please don’t go.”

“You have my whole heart, my dearest, I've always loved you. You must survive.”

The voice disappeared and Danielle lay curled, sobbing on her bed. Her sheets wet with tears. Outside, the sun began its ascent, and beyond the Crest — the Antisis began to march.