Between Desire and Power

Chapter 5 - Promise

～7 Years Ago～

“Oh, you’re crying...Kate, what’s wrong?” I didn’t know when, but the corners of my eyes were already wet, hot tears streaming down my cheeks.

“Did I do something wrong? Please don’t cry…” His confidence suddenly shattered in the face of my tears. He panicked, wiping the tears from my cheeks, looking into my eyes desperately, trying to figure out what was wrong.

I sobbed, trying to gather myself. “Nothing is wrong, it’s just that…” I didn’t know where to begin.

“This feels like a dream – you, the Greek god, on a date with me, the plain and average girl. I feel like I shouldn’t be experiencing the feelings I am right now, but I can’t control it.”

His hands wrapped tightly around mine, and I could feel them trembling uncontrollably. “Kate, look at me,” he demanded. I lifted my head to meet his gaze.

His eyes looked so determined as if I had just spoken blasphemy.

“Believe me, you are beautiful, both inside and out. Don’t ever say that again,” he said, looking at me with deep affection.

“O…okay,” I stammered, wishing I could believe it was true.

He reached out and pulled me into his embrace. His warm hold and comforting scent momentarily made me forget my sadness.

“I know what you’re feeling right now…” he started, kissing my forehead. “The moment you walked into the bar, I felt this warmth in my chest, as if the light of my life had entered my world. When I turned and saw you, I couldn’t take my eyes off of you. You were shining so brightly, as if you were my redemption, able to bring me happiness and all I ever wanted.”

I was shocked. “That’s exactly how I felt – and how I feel now!” I exclaimed, almost too eagerly. “You’re like my other half. It seemed so fast, but it also felt so right. I can’t explain it…”

He nodded as I spoke, making me even more emotional.

“But it feels so impossible for us to be together…” I finally voiced what had been on my mind for so long. “You live in New York, and I’m from Seattle. You have an entire legacy waiting for you to fulfill…” I was almost choking.

He was tearing up too. I’d never seen him look so unsure. “It doesn’t have to be that way; I don’t have to go back and manage my dad’s company,” he said.

“Really?!” I felt like I’d found a final straw to cling to, unwilling to let go. “Yes, really…” He cupped my face in his hands, as if I were as fragile as glass.

“I’ll transfer from NYU to UDub. We can go to school together every day, spend countless weekends together, and watch the sunset over and over again.” He seemed to be convincing not only me but also himself.

I could hardly believe my ears. Was this real? Could I truly have this? It seemed impossible. I was at a loss for words.

“I promise, Kate. I promise you,” he said, recognizing my look of disbelief.

I could no longer contain the overwhelming emotions rushing through me. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I kissed him deeply, pouring all my joy, gratitude, affection, and relief into that kiss. I never wanted to let go.

Never…