Chapter .66.

"Aphrodite," I plead to the moon-drenched sky, "Tell me; if love is meant to heal, then why does it destroy those who choose it?" From somewhere beyond the clouds, I heard the goddess laugh. And I knew. -Nikita Gill, Night Songs to Aphrodite * * * I don't think of the similarities the next day as Orion finds me laying there in the woods. I do feel guilt at the panic I've caused him when his arms circle around me. "Thank you Goddess..." a sob leaves him as he lifts me and pulls me to him. He buries his face into my shoulder, trying to control his breathing. "You have her?" It's Grandma's gentle voice. Then Rex's. Then reality. I slowly pull away from Orion, letting my hand rest on his cheek. "I'm sorry." I stand up, smiling at his worried stare. "I'm fine." Orion continues to watch