Victor's Fear

Victor's strong arms trembled as he held Eulalia, as if cradling something precious and fragile.

Eulalia felt her own heart quivering in response. She tilted her head back slightly, resting her chin on Victor's shoulder.

"What's wrong?" she asked softly. Her breath tickled his ear, causing it to twitch and turn pink.

Victor's voice was hoarse as he replied, "I'm scared. Scared I'd be too late and find you hurt. Scared I wouldn't see you again. Scared something would happen to you. Scared you'd leave me. Scared you'd be mistreated when I'm not around. Scared you'd suffer in silence without telling me. Lalia... how do I overcome this fear?"

"But I'm fine, aren't I?" Eulalia paused, then hesitantly raised her hand to pat his back reassuringly. "And I'm not alone. I called you. I'm safe. I'm still here."

Victor was like a wolf-dog being soothed. The warmth in his arms filled the emptiness in his heart, as if injected with hot honey, sweet to the core.

"I don't want there to be a next time