On our way to the train station this morning the leaves crunched beneath our feet. The air blew with a tinge of warmth out of the southern skies. I pulled close to you, held your hand. That constant touch, yet again.

A week together and it seemed like several. Every moment lost in your eyes could have been hours. Time slowly, slowly, slowly passed by.

Your lips felt so warm against mine. So tender and perfect and natural.

"This just feels natural, baby," you said with a sly smile. It may have sounded cheesy, but it really was the truth. You'd work your arm around my neck, smile, and kiss me. Always kissing me. Always touching me, holding on to me. Your touch was so very reassuring. It was stable for the solitary week you were here. I could count on it for that brief window of time. Count on your gaze, your eyes, your kisses, your words. I counted on you.

You smiled as the train slowly pulled out of the station. Your eyes followed me until the metal rushed between us, parting the view of one another. I could feel them on me long after your gaze was gone.

I still do, you know. Things haven’t changed. You may have left but you still remain here in my thoughts. I don’t think you’ll leave them any time soon.

On the way back from the train station this evening, the wind blew in even colder from the south. My eyes stung from the wind. In the dark, I pulled my arms closer around myself. I imagined you were there. I could hear your voice, almost, whispering softly in my ear.

"You’re beautiful," you’d say. "I like you."

I reached down and retrieved a fading leaf from the ground. Shiny in the pale streetlight. And your voice in the darkness whispered to me those words I nearly cried when I heard.

I heard you whisper "I love you, Bets."