Turning my head so I can look into his eyes, I strum my fingers across his cheek. “You’re right. I think we’ve both had enough darkness. I want to live in light.

I’ve learned through the years that it’s not where you live, it’s the people who surround you that make you feel at home.

This time, I want the hugs, kisses, and love that comes with a farewell … even if it’s a temporary one.” He takes a step and cups my head in his hands. “I want to say ‘see ya later’ and know that it’s not a final goodbye. I want to memorize every line,” he strums his finger across my face, “every line of your face, Alex. When I walk away, I want to know that I’ve made every last second I had with you count.

The door closed and darkness claimed the room.

Hope is a form of conscious dream making.

I never thought of a future without you. That was the reason I always lived in the present, hoping I would find you someday.