Page 95 of His Black Onyx

What if?

There have been many moments when these doubts were on the brink of winning, almost chasing me off this bench to take to my heels.

But I never gave in to the urge. It wouldn't solve anything, because I would always wonder. For the rest of my life I would wonder what could have been. I would always wonder if I left behind a life that could have included her.

A life that seems so much better than any alternative.

An especially strong breeze travels across the shore, making summer skirts and hair whirl, as it caresses the numerous visitors strolling toward the cliff walk.

My heart skips a beat when I see a mane of familiar black locks dance to the wind's tune.

And it almost jumps out of my chest when my eyes meet the black raven depth of hers.

She emerged from the crowds, accompanied by a man and woman who feature the same olive skin and black hair as hers, but both are marked by time that surpasses her life span by a few decades. Her parents.

Malia freezes the moment she sees me, and with that, time stands still. It's just a few moments, seconds that stretch into an eternity as we stare at each other with shocked disbelief.

I waited for her, I hoped to see her, but still I can't believe she's actually here.

It's amazing how such a short time frame can turn into such horror, leaving so much room for panicked thoughts, for dread and fear, for regret and concern, for sheer terror—just to be replaced by pure bliss within an instant.

She doesn't move at first. But she speaks. I can't her hear voice, but I can see her lips moving. And I know what they're saying.

"Nate."

Just that. Just my name.

And then she starts running.

Toward me.

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