Sharp staccato breaths stab my lungs. It's not the first time you've left me breathless. I know it won't be the last. I choke on the pain that rises to the back of my throat as I reach for you. Intangible.
I spent my life searching for you. I plunged into the depth of the oceans and tackled the waves as I crossed them. Climbed and conquered mountains alone in the dark. I've collected scars that I visit like old friends. We reminisce of the good times and the bad. Everyone told me that it was an impossible journey. You would never be found. Now–here you are.
For the first time, you glance in my direction. Face to face. My heart thunders in my chest as if it intends to speak to you. Can you hear it? Your silence is deafening. I hold my breath as I wait for you to speak. I've waited with great anticipation for decades to know the sound of your voice. To know your truth.
I lift my hands, beckoning to touch you for the first time. The hairs on the back of my neck prickle and spike as our eyes lock on each other. I'm still holding my breath.