SHADOWS IN BRONZE

'I thought,' she began after a moment, with her voice little more than a whisper so I knew she was almost unable to go on. 'I thought there would be plenty of time-'

'Oh my love!'

She was reaching for me even before I began to move. In three strides I had crossed the room. I set one foot on the step, twisting onto the high bed, then at last Helena was locked in my arms, so tight I could hardly feel the deep despairing sobs she so badly needed to release. When I finally loosened my grip to cradle her more kindly, Helena's hand spread protectively on me, where I was hurt. Neither of us spoke, but we both knew. Where her face was pressed to my scratchy cheek most of the tears were hers, but some were my own.