though time had passed, and they had both grown older, there was some lost air of a bond between them. scattered memories and smiles they’d both forgotten. of course --- they’d fallen apart. opposing ideals led to clashing and the caustic respite that billowed behind closed doors. ---- but, time had passed. time had passed and animosities grew lighter, burdens had lifted, and as time goes, it always cycles back to the same old golden years.
young years, time that sped by fast and loud, time that she’d never cherished and always missed. --- things were different now, it was done. they’d never go back to those beautiful, shining days.
with jack, nothing went past greetings and small talk. back and forth of her opening her mouth, then closing it. she’d always wanted to say something more, but she couldn’t read his expression. and maybe --- he wore that mask just for that reason.
“ ah, hold still ---- “ her eyes were on the ground, as they often were around him. and still, she had to bite her cheek to stop herself from saying his name. they weren’t comrades. they weren’t friends.
she kneels down next to his feet, taking his untied shoelaces into her hands, and lacing up his boot deftly. --- it wasn’t anything special, just out of habit, she supposed.
“ we wouldn’t want the enemy to see you with your face in the mud now, would we ? “ and she’d smile up at him. / @illwar