Some Nights: Chapter 1

<sub>"Ever wonder what he's doing? How it all turned to lies?
Sometimes I think it's better never to ask why.

Where there is desire there is going to be a flame. Where there is a flame someone's bound to get burned. But just because it burns doesn't mean you're going to die.

You've got to get up and try."</sub>
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I stood from the old rocking chair and walked towards the window. The sunlight peeked through and brought warmth to the dark and cold barn. The window had gathered a film of dust over the years and the soft light showed the many particles in the air.

I hugged the book against my chest, my heart beat echoing against it. My waist long, dark brown hair draping down my back, covering my thin figure.

The light warmed my pale, smooth-skinned face, lighting my greenish-blue eyes like a candle lights a dark room.

My bare feet silently carried me across the wooden floor and towards the window. I looked outside, the light causing me to blink. The sun had just barely risen above our large farmhouse, illuminating the towering oak trees and the freshly trimmed grass. In the early light, the two story farmhouse was a breathtaking sight. Its white paint looked heavenly against the deep greens surrounding it.

I remained emotionless as I took in the sight. Once I felt content, I pulled the book away from my chest and looked at its light blue cover. The wear was obvious. The spine was weak, the cover had several stains, and pieces of paper that had been ripped out were hanging out ever so slightly.

My eyes began to water as I studied it. I finally gained enough courage and opened the cover.

I hesitated to continue so I just remained still.

Once I swallowed my fear, I lifted my hand and grabbed the envelope then gently sat my book down on the window sill.

I ran my fingers along the well preserved envelope then turned it over. It was absolutely bare except for one word written in flawless cursive.

Echo.

I ran my fingers over the word then to the top of the envelope and reached inside. I delicately removed the paper from within then unfolded it. My eyes slowly scanned the letter, savoring each word.

Echo,

I am sorry that I had to leave, but you know I need to do this.
You deserve someone who can always be there for you, someone who will always love you and never forsake you. I could never keep those standards.
But do not deny, I did love you, more than life itself. Now it is time we face reality. I  will have a small chance of returning, and if I did, I could never take you as my bride. We would be shunned for the rest of our lives. I am already leaving you in a bad position.
My presence endangers you. A relationship would send us out in flames.
I will miss you everyday.
Sincerely, Nate.


The tears streamed down my cheeks and I released the letter from my grasp.

It slowly drifted down to the ground and landed at my feet. I looked down at it and swallowed my sorrow then wiped my eyes and cheeks before turning and walking out of the old barn that carried so many memories. Memories that now only caused pain.

Memories I would lock away and leave to decay.