Eight Seconds to Fly

M y crying eventually subsided from violent sobs to soft sniffles, my body stiff and exhausted. I moved away, wincing at the wet patch of tears on Branch’s shirt. “Sorry.”

Branch cupped my cheek and kissed me softly. “Never be sorry for using my strength when you need it.” He gave me one more tight hug. “One day I’ll need yours and I know in my soul, you’ll be there to hold me together too.”

God. I loved him. I swallowed hard and shifted onto creaky knees before standing. I put a hand out for Branch. He took it, although he didn’t really need me to pull him to his feet, but he didn’t let me go either.

I moved out of my father’s room, and I noticed Branch putting the picture frame on the dresser on the way out. I shut the door softly behind us, like I could close all those feelings behind the polished wood doors.