Programmed for Love

by Lyonne Riley

“Love is not what I thought it would be,” he whispers. “So I simply did not recognize it. I am sorry for that. I am sorry it took me so long to understand.”

“I thought love would be some sudden strike of realization, like a bullet. But it’s not. It builds and grows, until you cannot imagine living without the person you love at your side.” D sits up just slightly, propping himself against the wall, and pulls me towards him with his other arm. “I never want to be without you, Lela. I don’t think I could stand it. If that is not love, I don’t know what would be.”