Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Other Four-Letter Words

by Michael Ausiello

In the wake of steam room–gate, a new Kit emerged, one who was contrite, vulnerable. By the time I got home an hour later, there was an email waiting for me in my in-box. It was from Kit, and the subject line read, “Peaks, Valleys, and Unexpected Turbulence.” I clicked it and began reading. I’m so glad you saw me. I got to see you. Hold and hug you. Hear you say that you’re O.K. That we’re O.K. You’ve seemed so far away since last night. Or maybe it was the idea of us that seemed like it was fading. I couldn’t help but feel today’s bus was a metaphor for that. Making me strain to make you out behind its smoked glass. Making me rely on my idea of you. Causing me to think what I would do if you weren’t there. Weren’t here. Weren’t in my life. Staring through my reflection I looked at myself and wondered who you saw. Then I asked myself where are you going? Wondered if our tickets are for the same destination. On the same flight. Perhaps though, our journey is the destination. Then tickets are not required and to that I’d say, now boarding. Have your tray table up and your seat belt securely fastened. There may be unexpected turbulence. If I’m scared, I’ll know you’re in the seat next to me. Holding my hand. Talking me down. Telling me WE’RE going to be O.K. When everything settles down there will be a quiet ding and we’ll be free to walk about the cabin. Together.