He was going to die.

He watched as the fire blazed even stronger, watch as the acrid smoke moved even closer. He chocked on his fear, willing himself to run. But his legs failed him. They gave, and he fell to the ground hard. Knowing that there was no escape, he could only watch with despair and horror as the fire crawled over all his memories, burning them into ashes.

Closing his eyes, he thought about what he was going to leave behind, his dreams, his family, and her.

Belle. I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you the one thing that you truly wanted to hear. I love you. But it’s too late. And for that I am sorry. I know, even though you did not tell me, that you are pregnant. I tried to run again, because I was scared, scared of what I was thinking, feeling. And now I know I will never have a chance to explain to you why I walked out that day. I knew you cried. I was crying too, just that you only saw my back. You had one arm tucked across you belly, and I knew, but I was too afraid, so I walked on, trying to convince myself that it was the right thing to do. But deep inside, I knew it was wrong. I’m sorry for not being brave enough. I’m sorry for not even trying. I’m sorry that I would never get a chance to say I love you. And I’m sorry for taking you love for granted. I’m sorry.

Fire burned at his feet, scorching his jeans, but he was numb and he couldn’t feel. The fire engulfed him swallowing him. He didn’t scream. He was numb. There was no pain as the fire blazed, leading him to the path.

At least God had done that for him. And he was grateful for that. He smiled as he was released, but the only regret was that she was left behind.

I love you; forgive me...

A young woman was feeding her baby, looking at his angelic face, the resemblance to his father was clear. She smiled sadly as her baby looked up and giggled, reaching her chubby had to tug at her mother’s lips, pulling it into a frown before giggling again and letting go.

The wind rustled through the open window, bringing a smell of smoke and burning grass. She looked up in horror and the sight that greeted her chilled her to her very heart.

“No! Oh God, please, no…” she breathed, panic rising in the pit of her stomach.

I love you, forgive me… the wind whispered.