The rain fell softly on the porch and coolness wrapped around her body. She let his warm arms hold her tightly in his safety. Her breath escaped slowly and she let out a gentle sigh. It was only moments away before he had to leave for the night and her peace would leave. His hand gently ran along her cheek and his lips kissed the top of her silky hair.

Her eyes fell closed and she whispered, "Please, don't leave."

His eyes rested on her hidden ones and he said, "Faith, I have to."

She sighed and nuzzled further into his warmth and said, "I know. I know."

Slowly she looked up at him and he placed a gentle kiss on her lips. She held her breath, savoring the peace and tranquility, and her hand rested gently around his neck. He pulled away and she sat up to let him up. As he stood, he stopped and looked back at her. Her eyes met his and he pulled her up to him.

He held her and whispered, "I'll come back."

She nodded and forced out, "Hurry back then."

He kissed her forehead and said, "When I do, I'm taking you home with me."

Her eyes widened slightly and she asked, "What are you saying, Jesse?"

He smirked and kissed her check. Then he stepped back and slowly walked to the end of the walk. She held her fingertips on his kiss and watched him disappear. When he vanished, she felt the trail of tears on her face and smiled. He was coming to take her away and she just had to last that long.

When she could stand the rain no longer, she turned and walked into the house. As she locked the door, her mind played his last words over and over. Her hand locked the door and she slowly moved to the stairwell. She pulled herself up the steps to her room and slowly opened her door. When her hand flicked on the light switch, she froze and her arm returned to her side.

PGS