You May

Did she ever truly live in my head? I knew her as quiet, diligent, and prone to tears and complaints. Her gaze was always unusual, and five years ago she left to study at a prestigious boarding school. Recently she returned home—grown up, of age. She still reminded me of the old “Button,” but now she was unexpectedly beautiful, cheerful, and close.

***

Is she coming back? Just one single word, but with such density of meaning. I look down, unable to hold his gaze. It’s too close and triggers a storm of emotions. I feel myself trembling from tension. It’s him—Meyer, Mark. I confirm everything that’s happening in my thoughts. His fingers press noticeably into my shoulders. Not long ago they were somewhere else.

— Mil… — his voice sounds different. My name, softer, the way it comes from the lips I could only dream of before. Now I’ll torture myself with memories of their taste, softness, and the sweet vibration.