Reed bowed deeply toward Ailette, as if he might climb into the sarcophagus alongside her. His long black hair rustled as it fell, brushing against her cheek.
“Wake up.”
“…”
Reed’s hand swept his black hair aside and gently cradled Ailette’s cheeks.
“Wake up and love me.”
“…”
His palms, still holding the warmth that had yet to fade, slid downward. He gripped her shoulders tightly, almost as if clinging to her.
“We agreed on this.”
“…”
“You said the whole world includes you too.”
“…”
“You said that.”
“…”
He carefully lifted her upper body into his arms. Supporting the back of her head so her limp neck wouldn’t hurt, he pressed it against his cheek and rubbed gently.
“I’ll do anything.”
“…”
“I’ll convert if you ask me to.”
“…”
“I’ll save the world if you tell me to.”
“…”
He pleaded.
“Please.”
“…”
Even as he poured his voice into her ear, it didn’t reach her at all.
As time passed, the light in his eyes began to fade. The whispers and movements meant to rouse her dwindled…