Maria

"Exams is finally done." I exclaimed over the phone to Ella.

"Yeah, yeah. I can finally cime meet you." We'll be at the airport tomorrow." Ella promised.

The next day, the moment of parting weighed heavier with each step from campus towards the waiting cars to take Alex and Archer away, perhaps forever if their uncertain quest to root out gathering shadows proved fatal.

But foreboding was held at bay briefly in lighthearted companionship. I committed each smile gracing their beloved faces to memory against the lonely vigil ahead.

"Hey, we'll talk on phone." He reassured, his warm hand enveloped mine, his aquamarine gaze filled with gentle reassurance whenever...