Loving Cousin

"I'm leaving," he said, gathering up his clothes, then began putting them on as he walked up the hallway.

I got my robe from the hook on my closet and followed him out into the living room. "I can explain."

"I'm sure you can, but not today. I need to go. I can't be here right now."

"Promise me you'll come back," I begged as I grabbed his arm to stop him. I felt the tears in my eyes, but other than that I felt nothing. I was entirely empty.

He shook off my hand as he got the last of his things packed in his duffel and backpack, then he looked at me for a long moment. I could see the pain I'd given him so clearly now, but nothing else showed. I had no idea what he was thinking.

"I promise," he whispered as he pulled me into his arms to kiss me with a tenderness I didn't deserve. Then he got his bags and left without looking back.

I don't know how long I stood there before Mom came back out of her room and asked, "Is he gone?"

"Yes." I turned to face her.

"All the lies, Kate, all the lie