~ your lap, and smiles, the skies outside finally clearing}

Thank you Raven, for being the… friend I needed. I am not sure I would have gotten through all of this unscathed, had it not been for your help.

{The brush of your shoulder has my barriers collapsing around me and I lean in against your side, my head tilting to rest against yours}

That is always the hope. I think I will try to reach out to those I trust and try to figure out what’s been happening

{Squeezes around our linked fingers, in ~

~ to keep you safe}

I have been away from heaven for long stretches of time… I have missed a lot while I was gone. It is clear though that something has corrupted the purity of the angels hearts. But I have to believe there are still those in heaven who have not been so easily swayed…

{I watch you as you lift my hand to your cheek, the touch of your soft skin causing my stomach to do acrobatics. You were so pure and I knew, in that moment, that you were genuine in your concern for me, and it shattered whatever resolve I had to keep you at a distance. I would do whatever it took ~

{It intrigued me that you would be so fiercely concerned about the plight of an angel. That you would concern yourself with my safety. My gaze drops to our links hands in your lap, staring at them in wonder, my voice a little distant}

We had it all wrong… for so long…

{Sighs softly and shifts my gaze out the window}

I do not know. Although, I have spent a lot more time on earth than most angels, so I am accustomed to life here. The others will be after me again though. I escaped confinement, so they will be displeased.

{Ducks my head slightly at your laugh, a soft chuckle escaping. Lifting my head, I reach out for your hand again}

Well, I do not believe I will be welcomed back into heaven right now, so should the need arise, you will find me here. Or, you can summon me and I will be at your side.

~ your hand}

You are welcome here anytime… I will always welcome you into my sanctuary

{When you shift to sit on my couch, I find myself holding my breath, your closeness and your words, stunning me into silence. Moving in a little closer, I reach for your hand, brushing my thumb along your knuckles}

No one has ever said those things about me…

{Looks over your face and releases ~

{At your flush and your questions, I realise I’ve said those things out loud, instead of only in my head and a light flush creeps over my own cheeks. Shifting in my seat, I glance out the window, before returning my fierce gaze to yours}

Yes. You are precious. Anyone can see that…