From the bottom step of the metaphorical staircase that is now so familiar, I run for the farthest door. This time I’m going to see how it all began. Donovan’s recent actions are a full-on assault on my heart, drawing back the feelings I’ve spent years trying to push away. Has my time with the man I am destined to love forever always been a mess?

Without hesitation I throw the door open and step into the light. My mind wants to be ready for whatever hits me, but the truth is, my earthly body is scared rigid. As the light dissipates, dryness surrounds me, like that which is brought on by too much sun and sandy wind, yet my hands feel cool. “What do you see?” Susan guides.