By the Sea [H.S. AU] ✓

1.

The waves crashed into her shins. It was coming closer to engulf her in a silence that would wash over her and complete her - forever. The perpetual slow motion of these waves would finish what she was too cowardly to end herself. The world wasn't as hectic as it used to be. The air around her was unusually still compared to the aggression shown by the tides against her body.

Now the water was tickling her thighs. It was calming her blood, lowering her blood pressure, lowering her core body temperature, lowering her upper eyelid. She had never felt ready to leave. Her ears began ringing at the surreal reality she was in at that moment. Stretching her arms out, allowing the wind to graze across her fingertips, the elements were ready to take her home. She was excited at the idea of finally being able to breathe.

Her hips were now disguised by the waves. Her feet no longer touched the ground. Of course, she felt a bit of guilt. There were people who loved her. But at the same time, she questioned their love. Were they just empty claims to keep her alive or were they genuine words of kindness that had honesty wrapped around them? She would never find out and that didn't bother her the slightest bit.

Treading water used to be her favourite thing to do at swimming lessons when she was a child. She thrived on the cheers as she put two hands up in the air and kept her head out of the water just with the kicking of her feet. But now it was just getting tiring. Her palms faced the heavens as she surrendered for a final time. Turning around to look at where she left her shoes, she was satisfied by the distance. Looking down, the reflection of the moon looked back at her, illuminating her features. She turned again to face the rounded beauty that dominated the sky. "I wish I was like you." She whispered, now floating, laying on the water. To her luck, the waves settled where she was. She was able to balance for now. She was able to enjoy the view of the stars burning and dying on her final night. She was grateful. So, so grateful.

Suddenly, Delilah heard a cry from the shore. Had someone spotted her? Lifting her head, shaking her soaked hair, she saw a small figure waving. She couldn't make out what it was trying to say but it didn't matter anyway. She was done. It was time.

Her head went underwater.