Chasing Clouds

by Kathryn Andrews

Gently, he lifts my veil, and instead of flipping it back over my head, he slips under it to be close to me. What had acted as a filter is now gone, and everything about him is vivid, sharp, and—just for today—mine.

I step closer, wrapping my arms around her. Pulling her back flush with my front, I drop my head next to hers. “Reid—” Her voice breaks as she breathes out my name and her arms layer over mine. The trembling has turned to shaking and she starts breathing harder. “Deep breath, Camille. I’ve got you.” I can’t imagine all the things going through her head. This situation only inconveniences me a little bit, but her—she may as well have thrown a bomb at her family, her friends, her life. In and out, I take deep breaths, and slowly her breathing returns to normal, then we’re breathing in sync. Her shoulders relax and curve as she folds herself into me. I hug her even tighter.