Beyond Music

The Beach

As I slowly opened my eyes, the sweet smell of salty ocean air filled my senses. The sound of seagulls and waves crashing against the shore resonated throughout our luxurious ocean-view room. I couldn't help but smile as I stretched my limbs, feeling the soft sheets caress my skin. But as I reached out to kiss my beloved Malcolm good morning, I realized he wasn't there. I sat up, frantically searching the room for any sign of him. And then I saw it, his side of the bed untouched, sheets still neatly tucked in as if he had never slept there at all. Desperately, I rolled over to his side, burying my face in the pillow and inhaling deeply. His cologne, a mix of musk and wood, still lingered on the fabric.

As I mourned his absence, I noticed Malcolm standing on the balcony, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean before him. But his eyes weren't focused on the endless horizon, they seemed to be staring at something invisible, lost in his own thoughts. I couldn't resist the urge to join him, to wrap my arms around his strong, broad frame and feel his warmth against my skin.

"Good morning, my love," I whispered as I nuzzled my face against his neck. He leaned his head back, allowing me to place a gentle kiss on his cheek.

I could feel the pain and turmoil hidden deep within. I tightened my grip around his waist, wanting to offer him comfort and support. His stoic demeanor and brooding eyes only added to his allure, making me fall even deeper in love with him.

"What's wrong, babe?" I asked Malcolm, my heart aching as I watched him gaze out into the vast ocean.

Malcolm turned to face me, tears glistening in his eyes.

"I wish that David was here to see all of this," he said, his voice cracking with emotion.

"He was supposed to be my best man." Malcolm's shoulders shook as he began to cry, and my heart broke for him. "He's gone, Camille," he sobbed, his voice raw with grief. "And he's never coming back. Our friend is gone."

I wrapped my arms around Malcolm, trying to comfort him in any way I could. But I knew my words would be inadequate, unable to ease the pain he felt. So, I simply held him, praying that he could feel my support and love telepathically.

It was obvious that David was more than just a friend to Malcolm. He was a brother, a confidant, a pillar of strength. And now he was gone, leaving a void that could never be filled.

As I held Malcolm, I couldn't help but reflect on the sophistication of their friendship.

Malcolm was vulnerable, raw, and broken. And it made me realize just how much David meant to him. So, I held onto Malcolm with all that I had, my heart heavy with sadness and my mind filled with memories of David as well.

I knew that no matter what, I would always be there for Malcolm. Because that's what true love is all about. "For better or for worse", I thought to myself.

Malcolm's laughter echoed on the balcony; a bitter sound that seemed to fill the void left by David's absence.

I watched him skeptically, wondering what could possibly be so amusing in this moment of grief. But then, with a heavy sigh, he turned to me and said, "I think it's time I confessed something to you, Camille."

I swallowed deeply at the intensity in his voice.

"Remember the night David died?" he asked, his eyes searching mine. "He reminded me that he told me you were a great catch."

I nodded slowly, memories flooding back to me. David had always been a good judge of character, and he knew me as well as my own sister.

"I do," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.