Her body felt weak and confined. She urged it to move, but it refused. Every slight movement was blocked causing panic to rise. Was she trapped? She tried to scream, to utter a plea of help. But no sound leaked from her lips. Instead, darkness dragged her deeper into the abyss.

A faint light appeared as she struggled. She willed her body to reach for it, to grab hold of the relief before her. Her attempts yielded a result—a stronger light. The light brought forth blurred colors and shapes. She focused on them, trying to add form to her disfigured sight.

Again, her wish was granted. The colors and shapes blended creating distinct figures. Her eyes saw him first—Rickter. She looked at him from above. His hair was a mess, and he wore casual clothes. Her heart ached to touch him, to reach a hand out towards him. But she couldn't, she was bound to her spot.

She scanned the room looking for someone. Anyone to notice her. But no one was there.

Everything was pale pink, from the walls to the curtains. A large window took up the wall behind Rickter, his body surrounded by the soft glow of the sun. On a small table next to him, a vase of tulips. Across was a whiteboard with writing; the names of doctors and nurses in charge of her. She was in a hospital. The curse had succeeded.

Rickter stood up from his spot. Now she could see his face. She thought work exhausted him, but this was different. He looked ten years older with a gaunt look and a dark stubble to match. He swept a hand through his greasy black hair appearing not to have showered for days.

Moving away from the chair he paced back and forth. A somber expression as he moved. He came back to her side, sitting on the edge of the bed. She watched him pick up her hand cradling it with care. The hospital armband slide down her wrist.

His head dropped, and he mumbled. "Irene, please come back."

His state of distress broke her heart. She knew it would be painful, but seeing his hollow eyes and pale skin. His haggard look and quiet words. The sight dispelled the bitter feelings of his forgetfulness.

If she could cry, she'd be balling her eyes out. She would cling to him and offer an apology. Embrace him in a warm hug until he regained his youthful and dazzling appearance. To revitalize his strength and fortitude into the man she knew. The one that brought joy to her eyes.

Her selfish choice had cost her. The man she loved—weakened. She wanted change, but to cause him excruciating pain. Not only was her decision selfish, but it was thoughtless.

But as much as her own pain consumed her, she knew the startling truth. A choice had to be made. A push from one side. Since she pushed first, she wouldn't regret her decision. She couldn't regret it. If she did, it meant the current relationship could withstand an eternity together. That was a lie.

"Irene. This last year hasn't been perfect. I was always moving ahead, striving for more. Not once did I stop to look back. I always thought you'd be there. Now, I realize how selfish that was. You've always been my reason for moving ahead. My push and drive. But, I do love you, I always have. So Irene don't leave me." He leaned forward, brushing a light kiss over her temple.

What are you doing! Kiss me on the lips. He moved back ignoring her silent cries. Sitting back into his chair, he dropped his head into his hands. Wait, don't fall asleep. Rickter come back and wake me up. Come on!

Will it end this way?