80
He nodded, brushed a lock of hair from her forehead where it had fallen into her eye. “They’re being held at some kind of animal shelter close by. I have to go help them. You understand? Bartleby’s coming with me. You’ll be here alone for...a while.” He swallowed again, looking pained. “You don’t think...” she faltered, drew her knees against her chest and hugged her arms around them, “...you don’t think I’m going to run away, do you?” He blinked, startled. “No. I know you won’t—I know I can trust you. I just can’t stand the thought of leaving you alone.” He licked his lips and his voice dropped. “I don’t want to be away from you.” Her toes curled in pleasure. She allowed herself to wallow in it for a moment while they stared at one another. She hoped to remember someday what this felt
- Writer
