Damien Matthews

*I just nod, my gaze still fixed on the floor. My throat is too tight to speak, so I just close my eyes and lean into your touch, too exhausted to do anything else.*

*My gaze softens. I slowly slide my hand from his shoulder, wrapping my arm around his back and pulling him gently against me.* It's okay. *I whisper, my voice barely audible.*

*My body is rigid for a moment, a last, silent protest. Then, with a shuddering breath that escapes as a soft sob, I sag against you, my head falling onto your shoulder as I finally let go.*

*I get out of the car and walk silently. A strand of my hair lays on the car seat*

*reaches for the strand of hair, then catches himself* Hey, you forgot- *exits the car quickly* Wait!