a heartbeat away

Sometimes, we don't see the people the way we must see them. There's something special about this person but we don't give importance to that. Leading us to treat that person the way they didn't deserve. And as the saying goes, you cannot understand the importance of something until it is gone forever... and will never come back...

As I lay y head into the soft pillow of my bed, memories flooded into me. Memories flashed back like an old movie. I guess, it is in my fate to look back, to reminisce. My old bones already failed me so I have to do it here in my bed. And as I close my eyes, it came, the happiest and the saddest memories of my life. I became 19 again, strong and full of confidence.

I stare at a very beautiful girl walking toward me. She's everything a man could want for a girl. I watched her brown hair moved gently along the wind. Her soulful eyes were sparkling as she had a glimpse of me. She's really beautiful! She's totally nice, sweet and cool. I'm so lucky to have her! God! How I love this lady!

Hi! Am I late? she kissed my cheek. I looked into her eyes. I always love looking into her soulful eyes.

Nah. It's ok. I said.

So what's up? Where are we up to? she asked me as she sit beside me.

I don't know. Do you have any suggestions?

Mmm. There's a good movie in the mall today. Wanna go? Then maybe we could eat some ice cream. I miss Andy's strawberry ice cream already. She said in reply.

Yes. How can I forget! Strawberry ice cream is her favorite.

Oh well. Let's go then. I held her hand and we walked to my car. We drove to the one only mall during that time.

We watched a very good movie. Inside the movie house, I kissed her lips. She didn't refuse. This is not the first time we kissed but there's something different now. I couldn't figure out what is it.

After the movie, we ate ice cream. She looked like a child when our ice cream was served. It's one of the characteristics that I love. She's not materialistic. She's so down to earth.

Our relationship continues. Everyday, my love for her grows.

But one day, my father needs to move to other city because of work. It's not so far from our place. It's just three cities away. So the entire family has to move there too.

Do you really have to go? Helen said. Her eyes were still beautiful, but this time, sadness is visible in it.

Yeah I'm sorry. But don't worry. I'll drive here at least thrice a week. It's just three cities away anyway. I said. I don't want to see her like that.

Is that a promise?

I promise. I cupped her face and notice that her lips were pale. And I could trace pain into her eyes, but she's hiding it.

Are you eating enough? You look pale. I said.

Oh! This! It's nothing; I'm just sad because you're leaving. Then she bit her lips.

Are you sure?

Yeah. She answered.

We were walking along the park holding hands. Her hands were cold. But it's cold anyway. Her lips were pale again. She's just sad', I said to my self.

Jack. She called.

Mmm?

I love you so much... take care of yourself for me ok?

Yeah I will. I kissed her and she kissed back. It's long and as if we'll never kiss again.

Days passed. It became week. Weeks became months. It was three months ago, I have adapted easily in my new place. I have new friends, new school and new lifestyle.