Prelude

PRELUDE: Always

July 1, 2013

Chicago, USA

I OPENED MY heavy eyes and found myself in a white room, needles were attached to my hand connecting to the fluids, and the continuous beeping sound of the heart monitor was the only sound I was hearing. The room was dim and I could only guess that it was already past midnight.

"Cheryl..." I heard a soft voice spoke from beside me. I turned my head to the side and saw him, and relief gushed over my system. Thank goodness, he's okay...

"Hi, Piers..." My voice was tired and raspy but my lips still managed to curl up into a smile and he smiled back, and his gloved hand went up to caress my hair. I felt so relieved and at peace knowing that he was alright, it was as if the past few days were a mere nightmare. "How did the mission go?"

"It was a success," He replied and I took in the time to examine his features. He was still in his gear, like he had immediately rushed over to me after his mission.

"I missed you," I whispered, feeling my eyes well up with the words. He gave me a gentle smile in return, "Please don't ever leave me again..."

"I will never leave you... even if I'm gone, I'll always be with you."

I looked deep into his beautiful hazel eyes, memorizing and admiring every little detail. I nodded, and Piers just smiled and leaned in to give me a kiss on the forehead. I closed my eyes as I felt him kiss my tears away.

"Always."