Ficlets

Remembering a Hug

I knew she was standing behind me, but I didn’t turn, and she didn’t say anything. After awhile, the elevator started moving, probably called to another floor since we weren’t telling it to go anywhere. As my stomach flipped slightly at the upward motion, Paige walked towards me and touched my shoulder.
I took a deep breath and turned to face her. She was silent, her eyes sad as she stared at me. And then she pulled me close, hugging me fiercely.
I couldn’t remember the anger I’d felt toward her earlier. For lying to me. For not leaving me alone.
I hugged her back and prayed to God desperately.
It took me seven floors to realize what I was praying for.
I was praying for happiness. I hugged Paige a little tighter and prayed as hard as I could.
When we finally broke apart, I was surprised that Paige had tears running down her face. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.”
I tried to smile, “It’s okay.”
“Are you hungry?” she asked, “There’s a cafeteria here.”
“Okay.” The doors slid open and two doctors joined us.

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