Hushed Willows Gentle on My Mind

She heard him call, so quietly - there was a buzz in her ear, but the bees were nowhere near. She felt hot on the inside, like she was a geyser 'bout to 'xplode. He was keeping her together the best he could, and succeeded in doing so with his grasp so tight. She couldn't remember the last time someone held her so tight, like they were about to lose her and couldn't bare to let go. No, this was a new sensation - creation. He cared, he cared whether she was here or away - he cared for what she felt and thought and did and he'd say; Hey love, breathe with me, okay?

The glaze of sadness that had settled 'ver her gaze lightened, cleared. The fur 'neath her wildflower eyes were darkened by moisture, sticking up in weird places where she'd brushed against Dante. She looked pathetic for a Melonii, but perfect for a Lumiya.

Not cruel. Not an unkindness. Not responsible. The words echoed, in slow motion, unraveling her further. They spoke against what she'd always been taught, yet rung clear and sincere. They carried with them not the sting of poison, but the awakening itch of wounds healing. You are good, not wrong. And then a beautiful metaphor presented itself to her. She was the generation of vegetation after the fire - given the opportunity and half a chance, the new generation could grow back stronger than the one before. They let the universe go red, but it spoke to her with love, and she'd make a soft universe.

In a sudden jolt of energy, she pushed her weight against him, perhaps enough to make them both take a tumble, and she had to still her sobs before she could speak again. Thank you. Her thankfulness was immeasurable, and she didn't know how to express it. Thank you. She repeated, in case he hadn't heard - in case the whole universe hadn't heard. She lifted her head from whatever position they were in right about now, be it upright or else, and looked at him with a bright smile. The tears that now spilled from her wildflower eyes were those of joy, like this whole experience hadn't been a roller coaster just yet.