The car ride was long, but I passed the time by humming along with the radio.
I felt John’s eyes on my face as I stared out the window. He lifted his arm and put it around my shoulders; I leaned against him. “We’re almost there,” he whispered. I said nothing, just nodded in response. I watched as the sun rose higher in the sky; it was precisely noon. The sky was a bright blue. It was beautiful. Soon we arrived at the park near my house. He stopped the car, and helped me out of my seat. He took my hand again, and led me to the center of the park. He led me to a clearing in the heart of the park. He sat down, and pulled me down close to him. I leaned my head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. He pressed his lips to my hair.
“Lace. I know someone has hurt you. And I can’t stand to see you hurt. Would you like to talk about it, maybe I can help ease your pain a little.” I froze, and instantly saw James’ face pop into my mind. “John, I can’t talk about this. I’m sorry. Too painful.” He kissed me then.