Lament

Chapter Ten [pt. 3]

I frowned. "Why then? It was during the civil war where there was nothing but disease and killing."

"Exactly my point," He continued. "I was in the Union and I had been relieved of my duties when I had been struck in the leg by a bullet. Of course, I healed quickly, but I couldn't very well tell them that. So I took my leave to the medical department, when, by fate, I met the most beautiful girl I had ever seen."

"Oh?" I teased. "Daniel Rett fell in love didn't he?"

He grinned slightly, but it disappeared. "Yes he did. Her name was Elinor. She was the nurse that brought me back to health. Over time we came to care for each other very much.

"She wasn't like all the other girls. No, instead, she wanted to help people. She would do anything for anyone if she believed it would give them a better life than hers.

"What do you mean?" I asked, seriously.

The ends of Daniels lips curled in anger. "Elinor had a horrible life. She was beat by her father cause he believed she showed too much sympathy for people and that one day, it was going to get her killed. So he'd beat her until she'd agree to show no remorse again."

After a long moment of silence, I said, "And what did you do?"

"Oh. I killed the bastard," Daniel answered bluntly.

I blinked, "Just like that?"

He nodded. "Just like that. He was the only person Elinor felt no remorse for. Of course, she forgave her father, but only because she was afraid of his soul."

"Then what?"

Daniel sighed. "Then Leon came along, and well, you know the rest."

I looked down at my plate. "So that's your favorite year with my past life?"

There was a long pause. "Not anymore."

I looked up and found him staring at me. "What?"

"Not anymore," he repeated. "North Carolina, 1864 used to be my favorite. It was during the time of loss and betrayal. I mean, for God's sake, America was at war with itself. And there along came this angel from above. And she landed right in my heart." He paused for a moment before adding, "She gave the world hope."

A soft breath came out of me. "And now?"

Daniel reached across tthe space between us and placed his warm hand on my cheek. He stared straight into my eyes and stated, "You are my favorite," very quietly.

His eyes went to my lips, and he slowly began to lean forward. I let him, staying still, lean in closer. So close, I could taste his breath.

Finally the distance between us collapsed and his mouth was gently pressed against mine.

It was a soft kiss. Nothing like I've ever had before.Instead of being eager and unsteady, the kiss was patient and lingering, even after he slowly pulled away. But despite his conspicuous happiness, he still said, "Sorry," and looked away.

I tilted my head and caught his eye. "Don't be."

He bit his bottom lip and finally got to his feet. "I should go scout the perimeter." He said, grabbing his jacket on the way out. "I'll be back soon."

I nodded, letting him go as the door closed softly behind him. "I'll be here." I murmured.