The tall blades of grass whipped against my legs as a cool wind blew over my shoulders. Chill bumps spread along my skin despite the blazing midday sun.
She was here.
My heart beat faster.
Letting my head fall back, I gazed up at the billowy clouds crawling across the azure sky. How desperately I wanted to be one, floating away, weightless and care free.
I closed my eyes, drinking in the warmth from the sun, letting the rays heat my face.
I was cold. I was always cold without her.
Drawing in a deep breath, I inhaled her familiar scent. She was close, I could feel her. Today I would catch her no matter how fast she ran.
Blinking my eyes open, I watched as her small frame raced by.
My gaze tracked her movement as she skipped through the field, fearful I would lose her again.
Her dress danced around her slender legs as she bounced through the field. The bright yellow ribbons tied around her waist trailed behind her like low-flying kites.
She giggled and my heart warmed from the sound. Her laughter was my saving grace, filling my empty soul.
I reached out to touch her but as always, she was just beyond my grasp.
She slowed as she reached the top of the hill and turned to face me, her dark brown hair hanging in ringlets around her face. Her hands waved in the air as she motioned for me to join her.
I held my breath, willing her to stay as I made my accent.
She smiled, her face ethereal and radiant, her expression lighting up the day. “Come on, Momma,” she called out.
Peace and happiness filled my empty soul. She was waiting for me. Finally, I would be with her.
I wasn’t sure where she was headed, but I knew I wanted to go, I needed to go.
I needed her.
“Momma,” she shouted again, her welcoming eyes begging me. She held out her tiny hand, smiling wide. “Come.” She beckoned as she floated away.
I took a step toward her, my hand extended as my feet slowly lifted from the ground. My soul was filled with love and light, everything she was. Today I would catch her and never let her go. My love, my life…my Annmarie.