Beyond the Roses

by Monica James

“Never underestimate your impact on the world. You just may be someone’s reason for living.”

blink. “Because…” I’m scared, I silently reply. “Because…” But I come up short. “Because you’re afraid of living?” Zoe offers with a bite,

“I think you’re beyond brave. I think you’re a truly remarkable woman who has no idea what she’s capable of.”

“Better I die fighting than die without a fight.”

“Life isn’t measured in time, but rather moments, memories.” “I don’t want to be a memory.” I know I’m being incredibly selfish, seeing as I was the one, weeks ago, accepting the same fate. “You’re the best memory I have.”

“This entire time, our story was supposed to be…you lived, and I died. But alas, plot twist. The writer of our story is one messed up, sadistic bitch.”

“Don’t break my heart,” I whisper, blinking past my tears. “Look after it. Take it. It’s yours. It belongs to you. It always has.”

“Lead with your heart…and you’ll find me. Always.” There is no more pain or uncertainty. All that is left is love…