Heights

“I'm scared of heights," she whispered.

He looked at her, head tilted to one side. It concerned him that she was afraid of so many things. He looked into her eyes. They were full of fear. Fear, which only he could see.

"Will you come with me, if I asked you to?" he asked.

"Where?" she asked nervously.

"Trust me," he said quietly. He extended his hand. She hesitated. He smiled and withdrew his hand. He walked a few steps. Without warning, she caught hold of his hand. A gentle yet firm hold.

He walked up the stairs.

She followed.

There was a silence, except for quiet and steady footsteps.

They reached the balcony. The sun shone...not too brightly, but just pleasantly. A breeze blew. There was a beautiful little garden on the terrace. There were her favourite flowers blooming. She let go of her reserve. She rushed towards them and then felt embarrassed at herself. She touched them gently. She enjoyed the fragrance and breathed a sigh of relief. She was beginning to love this little place, even though it had only been seconds. She felt peaceful again. She walked towards the ledge and looked down. It was a long way down.

An overwhelming panic took hold of her, and she turned away, her legs feeling unsteady. He was at her side at once. He held her hand.

"Look straight," he said softly.

She turned around again. She did as he said to. And she saw a clear horizon. The panic lessened.

"Better?" he asked.

She turned and a genuinely happy smile appeared on her face. The happiest smile, after a long time.

"Much better," she said, with a return of her roguish wink.