Just a brief... very brief short story for the 48-Hour Challenge: Media Prompt |
This is my entry for the 48-Hour Challenge: Media Prompt. If you haven't yet already, I highly recommend everyone listen to "In Your Arms" by Kina Grannis. The crystal waves. Washing around us as we lay in the sand, under the starry sky. The gentle sounds of the ocean putting our mind at ease. We were at peace. Nearing the end of our journey. Just the two us. We didn't need anyone else. Shunned and turned into a pariah by our families, we quickly realized we were on our own. We didn't understand why it turned out this way, why our loved ones couldn't accept us, but we couldn't have been happier. The best decision I ever made was out by the docks. All those jobs I complained to you about paid off in the end. I had never been more nervous as I was in that moment, asking you to run away with me. My heart stood still; my brain in overdrive, awaiting your response. You looked beautiful standing there. The ocean breeze whisking your hair away, while the moonlight bathed you in its warm glow. It was like looking at a painting, the way you molded into the scenery, becoming art before my very eyes. I would've broken down in tears at the surreality of it all had the circumstances been different. All you did was stare. I was wringing my hands, shuffling my feet. Showing all signs of having a nervous breakdown; and yet, you just stood there. Having lost all hope and accepting the inevitable, I did a double take when I heard quiet sobs followed by something incomprehensible. I must have looked ridiculous because you laughed, then ran up to me. Slinging your arms around me as I held you in my embrace, kissing passionately. We took off that night. Letting the sea plot our lives together. The boat was nothing fancy, but it was ours. It was no surprise I ended up naming her after you. You were all that occupied my mind. We sailed for years, traveling around the world. Strengthening our love with every drop of the anchor. Experiencing all that life had to offer. We finally managed to find our home, after so many years at sea. A tiny island tucked away several miles off the coast of Hawaii. Rich with plant and wildlife, we had everything we needed to live out the rest of our days. It didn't take as long as I thought it would to get settled. The inhabitants of the island generously offering to help us with anything if we ever needed it. Your sense of judgment never steered us wrong. I never considered settling down on the island. Not until you finally managed to get through my stubbornness, how special the island was. It was just who you were, always looking out for us, it's clear who the more responsible adult was. You never failed to bail us out of any situation my goofy shenanigans propelled us in. Yes, I can truly say I have no regrets. I met the love of my life and got to experience true love. And as I lie here with your listless body in my arms, drawing my final breath, I can only smile at the beginning of our next adventure. |