I awake disoriented with my heart pounding in my chest. Panic starts to creep into my mind as I have no idea where I am. Looking around, I can not make out any shapes in the pitch black darkness that surrounds me. Closing my eyes, I force myself to calm down and take deep breaths. Opening my eyes once more, I realize that I am in my bedroom. Relief floods me then embarrassment at being so silly. Yet, there is something different... something that woke me from my sleep. I stare at the ceiling trying to remember what it was that startled me so.
It's night once more. Away from the city, the night sky is awash with sparkles of light. The full moon illuminates the field where I lay with a soft pale glow. Only when I am out here, away from everyone and everything, do I feel content. The quiet slumber of nature eases my fears and heartache. How I wish that all my days could be spent here. Even though I am alone, I know that here I can let myself be free. The guards I place around my heart melt away as the peacefulness of the night surrounds me. Closing my eyes, I let my mind drift as I listen to the world around me. The night crickets play their quiet music, serenading each other with a melody as old as time. Night owls call softly reminding the field mice that they have awoken. Even the soft rustle of the wind through the grass soothes my restless soul. As my breathing slows, I succumb to my weariness and drift off to sleep.
My love ... I have found you at last ...
A soft smile a lights my face. Your breath tickles my ear as you whisper words of love to me. Though I know not what you say, I feel your love move through me. Warmth surrounds me as you lie next to me and gather me into your strong arms. A deep sigh escapes me releasing any doubts and fears I still have. You comfort me as I snuggle closer to you. Holding me closer, your arms tighten as to prevent me from ever leaving your sweet embrace. I sigh again feeling safe and cherished as I used to when I was a child. Time stands still for me as I relish these feelings you bring me. You whisper my name with such longing. My heart beats faster. Tilting my head up, you ask me to look upon your face. I hesitate ... for I believe I am dreaming and if I dare open my eyes, I fear you will disappear. Your arms tighten once more and you whisper my name again to reassure me. Taking a deep breath, I open my eyes.