"He stood up, a giant of a man--er, male, his dark hair catching the dim light from the street lamps out in front of the condo. A wave of sadness came over her, and she closed her eyes. "Hey," he said, sitting down next to her. "None of that. We're not sad. You and me? We're not sad. We don't do sad." She laughed with a choking sound. "How did you know what I was feeling? Or do I look that pathetic?" He tapped his nose. "I can smell it. Spring rain is what the scent's like." "I hate this good-bye shit." "Me, too." He leaned down and brushed his lips against her forehead. "Here." He shrugged out of his long-sleeved shirt, balled it up, and put it under her cheek. "Pretend this is me." She breathed in deep, caught the bonding scent, and was calmed a little. As he stood, he looked so strong in just a muscle shirt, invincible, like a superhero. And yet he breathed. "Please...be careful." "Always." He bent over and kissed her again. "I love you." As he pulled away, she reached out and grabbed his arm. Words failed, but the silence said enough. "I hate the leaving, too," he replied roughly. "But I'll be back. I promise." -Vishous & Jane"