A Thousand Heartbeats

by Kiera Cass

“You know, even in places that are dark, even in the midst of war, sometimes, people find light in each other.”

Even in stillness, she embodied kindness. The tilt of her head said you were pardoned for any offenses. Her quiet smile invited you to be near her.

And there was the heart of all my pain. I was loved in some way or another by everyone around me. But no one loved me like her.

You may take my freedom, but you will not be permitted to touch my joy.”

“Good. Because I am brave, but even I have my limits.” I put my lips close to her ear. “I love you. In spite of all that’s happened, and regardless of what comes next. I am hopelessly yours.”

She was so eager, so happy to finally be kissed, that she embraced me, too, trying to make the moment last. And I? I was hoping to do as Annika said, move on with someone who cared about me and put our time together in a jar, never to be forgotten. It took about four seconds to realize that would never, ever happen.

Ah, Nickolas, you’re an idiot.

Personally? I’d throw a festival. But I don’t currently have the funds.

“No. You were perfect.” She still wasn’t looking at me. “Do you want me to kill him?” “No,” she sighed, crossing her arms. I huffed. “Well, can I kill him anyway?” “No!” she insisted, finally turning to look at me. I smiled, showing I mostly meant no harm, and the tension around her melted. My Annika was back.

Annika, I hope you one day get to know what it’s like to find the person who fills the empty spaces in your heart, the person who pushes you to be all the things you wanted to be but weren’t sure you could. That kind of love will make you do unimaginable things.

I was lost for a moment, unable to believe that the dream I’d always wanted had been dropped into my lap. I crossed the space between us, giving Annika the gentlest of kisses and basking in her radiant smile. “I have never been better.”

So, as he held everything precious to him in his arms, he promised himself to join Annika in her optimism. He would hold her hand and walk confidently into the next tomorrow.