I CAN SEE THE NOTES dancing in the air, mingling with colors so vibrant. Tears stung at my eyes as the melody sweeps me away and there you are. Your soft smile is contagious. It feels as though it were just yesterday that we had met, the two of us shy, being cautious with one another as we began to talk. Did you know that all it took was seeing your picture once for me to fall? I had no idea who you were, where you were from, I knew nothing about you but, there I was — falling for a man unknown.

It didn’t take us long, did it, to make it official? My beloved, I cherished you then, now, and shall cherish you always.

Your arms wrap around me and it feels as though I’ve been enveloped by cinnamon. We entangle ourselves in this web of security, your eyes capturing mine, our lips meeting for the umpteenth time that day. I can get lost in your touch. Do you feel the same? Your smile tells me so. Your hand brushes my hair back before caressing my face. I close my eyes, holding onto this moment for as long as I can. I can see the notes again.

The music is soft in the background as we sway to its beat. This must have been how Cinderella felt as she danced with the Prince. Has life ever felt so right before? Our challenges are great but, being with you, there is not a single doubt. I could stay in your arms a lifetime. But, just as Cinderella, this dance must come to an end. Hand in hand, we pull apart as you fade away.

Now awake, I lay still in my bed, my hand reaching over towards my phone as I’m about to message you “Good Morning.” Our challenges are great, and our lives are in different time zones but, there is no doubt in my mind that we will get through this. Closing my eyes, I relive the dream while reminding myself that in due time this will be our reality. On the outside, it looks as though my bed is empty. Look closer and you will see the Hope that overflows. The gentle buzz from my phone calls me back — It’s from you! Hearing your voice brings a smile across my face and I can now begin my day. While miles may separate us, I have never felt as close to anyone as I feel with you.

To my Toll Bean, I love you.