We rode on for days.

Not saying a word. You beside me. Asleep.

Night fell and we camped. I sat with you. I spent the night with the Moon. The next day we rode on.

I spent days, nights, weeks, months asking The Mother what you were. What I was. Who we were. What you are.

I felt the pain in me cut deep.

The nightmares were getting worse.

This time, I woke. I could see and feel it taking you farther away from me. The Consumption.

Dark descended once more and camp was set up.

Last night, I woke with a sweat, and I sobbed.

You trying to live on without me.

You trying and failing.

You living behind a mask filled with lies.

I stood and walked away, into the dark. Hugging myself, I wanted to be alone. Why was it bothering me so much?

“Lies,” I hear the wind whisper.

“It isn’t real. It’s all a lie.”

“He’s bonded to you.”

I wanted to ask, “Is that it?” but I felt it. I knew already. That was it.

He was Bonded to me. And yes, that is it.

My Bonded Partner was filled with Lies and it was hurting me.

“I want his Truth,” I whispered. “I want him to know his Truth.”

“I want his Truth,” I said.