Beautiful woke to the sun rising over the horizon, a light frost dusting the ground. The sheep grazed contentedly around her, unfazed by the chill. Warmth still radiated from the campfire’s embers. Seeker’s arm was around her—and she nestled in closer with a soft sigh.
Seeker opened his eyes and smiled. She gazed into those big, brown eyes—so full of tenderness. Reaching up, she drew his lips to hers and kissed him, light and lingering.
He looked at her, eyes searching hers.
“I love you,” he said.
No. No. No. No.
Why did he have to ruin the moment? She had promised—promised she’d only ever tell one man she loved him. The kiss part? She added that later. Because deep down, she knew she would love the man she kissed. And she did. She loved Seeker. With all her heart. But she couldn’t say it. Not now. Not yet. “I love you” was forever. And she didn’t even know if…
Some words shouldn’t be spoken. He should know that. Shouldn’t he be able to read her heart? She loved him. Did he really need her to say it aloud to believe it? What was wrong with him?
Her temper flared—hot and sudden—but she caught herself, breathing it down.
“When did this happen?” she asked, calm on the outside. She was sure of it.
“When you climbed the wall,” he stammered. “When you tricked me into saying it the first time—I love you.”
“Do you even know what love means?” she demanded. “Think of every reason you love me—and make a list. Give it to me. A month from now.” She hesitated, then added, “We need a break. Time to think things through.”
Her heart sank. Why had she said a month? That was forever. A week would’ve been enough. Long enough to think.
This was his fault. She stood, fists clenched and walked away—leaving Seeker alone beside the cold, gray embers.
***
Seeker sat frozen, staring at the cold embers. What had just happened? She loved him—he was sure of it. And yet, she was gone. A month. Maybe forever.
Tears stung his eyes, but he blinked them back, stubbornly refusing to let them fall. Only babies cry. He made himself a vow. He would never cry again. Never.
Just then, Tirzah came out of the tent wiping the sleep from her eyes. “Still here, Seeker?” She paused. “Where’s Miss Beautiful?”
“I ruined the perfect night. Funny thing is, I don’t even know what I did wrong. And now she’s gone.”
Tirzah wheeled, leveling a piercing gaze at him. “Don’t be a dummy, Seeker! She loves you—everyone can see it. Except you. She will never leave you. Not ever.”
Doubt filled his mind. If only he could be as sure as Tirzah.
