Twenty-one

Run.

I have to run.

I can’t see but I need to run.

Run before they find me and get me.

A mountain.

It’s steep.

But I must.

I must run and run and runrunrun.

They can’t catch me there.

They can’t get at me there.

I know that now.

If I can make it I know I’m safe.

Safe from the pain and sadness.

From the fear and lies.

I just have to make it there.

I can hear them.

The pounding.

They’re behind me.

The screams are too loud.

I have to concentrate.

Concentrate!

I have to get there before they get me.

Help me.

HELP ME!

I can’t see.

The rain is tearing through me.

The rain is killing me.

I don’t want the rain.

I don’t need it anymore.

Help me get to you.

Help me.

Before they cause more pain!

I can’t live like this.

I can’t live without you.

Help!

HELP!

I’m almost there.

I’m almost at the top.

Yes. YES!

They can’t reach me now.

I’m safe.

We’re safe.

They can’t reach us now.

I can see you.

I can’t see, but I can see you.

How?

There you are.

My love, there you are!

Turn to me.

Turn to me and embrace me.

I need you.

I need you so much.

Like I never knew before.

I’m so sorry.

But I’m here now.

And I’ll never leave you again.

I’m here with you.

Forever.

That’s a promise.

I never promised it before, but I do now.

Now I know.

Turn around and embrace me.

Turn around, my love.

Yes, turn.

Turn to me.

No, NO!

OH MY GOD! NO!

Nonononononono!

YOU!