Another world, Celeste

Chapter Seven, pt 3

Dream World.

That's what I'll call it from now on every time I see myself standing right beneath the willow tree. This time, the grassland is still there and without wasting time, I briskly walk towards the one tree sprouting white flower buds and glow as each one blooms. I abruptly stop when the air surrounding the tree turns slightly colder. A different presence from the willow tree, as though I step into someone else's home. I see him. The man with the white hair sitting under the tree. His eyes closed. I hesitate, my breathing uneven. When I remember the last time this happens, I turn around. My heart hurts. I'm about to leave him be when I feel a tug on my right hand. I look back and sees him standing there holding my hand. So, it is him. The person carrying a stone-cold face. His blue eyes filled with determination. For what? He holds my hand tighter, not showing any sign of letting go. I smile at him while touching his hand that's currently holding mine.

I break the silence. "I'm not going anywhere."

His face softens. Then I face towards the ground, afraid if I look into his eyes, I might break down.

"I was wavering," I confess. "I thought if I get any closer, you would disappear again."

"Wherever you are, I will find you." He promises.

"How are you so sure?" I doubt him.

His other hand touches my face and make me look at him.

"Because the last time I was here, it felt as though I lost you as quick as I found you. I never thought to lose even more of myself than I already have."

My mouth opens but no words are spoken. This person, how long has he closed his heart that his eyes are empty of emotions when I'd seen him in person. Yet, the way he's looking at me now is completely genuine.

We walk further away from the tree and find a spot to sit on. It's a good thing I'm wearing a white long, sleeveless dress in this dream. It's making my black hair stands out more. On the other hand, he's wearing a white dress shirt with cream coloured pants, giving him a gentler impression. While I'm viewing the grassland, his attention is completely on me. I feel his touch on my head then he traces my face with his fingers, stopping under my eyes. He looks at me curiously.

I face him and smile. "See something?"

"We have met in person." He says matter-of-factly.

I only smile. Not giving him an answer.

"Judging by how you're not surprised to see me, you know who I am."

His hand pulled back after just realising how long he's been holding my face.

"I don't recall meeting anyone with black hair." He says to hide his embarrassment.

I give him a hint. "No one has."

He catches my meaning. "You're telling me I won't recognise you when we do cross paths."

I shrug my shoulder in response.

"Didn't you say you will find me, wherever I am." I challenge him.

He furrows his brows, obviously not liking what he hears. I stand on my bare feet.

"Won't you tell me who you are?" He pushes for an answer.

I extend my hand to him with a friendly smile.

"A friend."He places his hand on mine without hesitation and I pull him up.