What We Cannot Say

Love is often spoken of as a virtue. It is said to bring order to the heart and peace to the soul. Such words are safe, and they are allowed.

Yet not all love may be spoken.

This account tells of friendship, loyalty, and duty-things any reader may understand. It speaks of two lives long held together, formed in youth and carried into adulthood with care and restraint.

From childhood, Gina and Alvine shared a closeness that required no great words. A look was enough. A silence was enough. Nothing improper was ever named, and so nothing could be condemned.

When Gina is called to marriage, all appears as it should be. Duty is fulfilled. Order is kept. And yet, some feelings do not leave when they are commanded to go.

This story is written for many, but understood by one.
What is shown is permitted.
What is hidden is true.