Fiction Friday:
The Book of Micah, Ep. V

“I don’t know.” 

The words spilled from his mouth without conscious thought. Looking up from the table, Micah saw the sheen of new tears in his wife’s eyes. He recognized her pain and berated himself for causing it. After another long moment of silence, he spoke again, “I don’t want to hurt you. Or the children. Or myself. Yet, I don’t see a way forward without it.”

Vestia nodded, slowly. Tears had begun to roll freely down her cheeks. Once, twice, she opened her mouth to speak, only to close it again with a shuddering sigh. Micah reached across the table for her hand. She lowered her eyes as she allowed the small physical connection. Taking a deep breath in and letting it out, she wiped at the tears with her free hand.

“I have no wish to cause you pain.” Micah squeezed her hand as he spoke.

“Neither do I desire you to be in pain." Her voice caught on the words she spoke. "Micah,” his name seemed a gentle caress from her lips, “I love you with all of me. I cannot keep you tied to me like an animal.” 

Vestia met his eyes. “I want you to remain with me, but I cannot force it. If you choose to stay, I need you here.” She pulled her hand from his and touched his chest, right over his heart. “Here,” she repeated, moving her hand to his temple. “All of you.”

Micah hadn’t moved from his stool, yet felt unbalanced, as if he’d spun in circles too many times with the children. The weight of such unexpected freedom twice in a day was staggering. “I am . . . uncertain how to respond.”

Vestia nodded. After a moment, she stood. Turning toward the bedroom, she noted, “The woodpile has been dwindling.” 

“I love you.”

The sound of his words hung in the air. Vestia spun slowly to face him. Her voice was small as she responded, “I know.” A deep ragged breath was forced into her chest. “And I love you.” Another breath in, followed by a sigh. “I fear our love may not be enough.”

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