There was an ache in her belly as she stood on the balcony, waiting to see her beloved cross over the castle barriers. Her breath was heavy, and tears were beginning to sprout. Her flaxen hair imprisoned by the wind. On the horizon, a sunset full of pink and orange dreams made tears flow down her face. How can something so beautiful bring with it so much despair?

“Your majesty! Shall I send in the first line?”

“No. He’s not here yet. He’s…”

“Your majesty, they’re closing in. They’ll be at the gates soon! If we don’t–“

“If we don’t wait, he’ll be killed.”

“With all due respect, your majesty, he may already be dead.”

She turned around to face him with a fearsome look. She wiped away her tears violently.

“Listen to me! I am your Queen! You are not to send in the first line until I say! And I will not say until I see him cross the cliffs! Is that clear?”

Her first officer, was reluctant and wanted to insist. But before he could do so…

“Your majesty!” he shouted, motioning her to look behind her towards the horizon.

“He made it! He did it! Send in the first line right away, I will meet the others on the bridge!”

“Yes, majesty!”

Her body collapsed into itself. A great relief warmed her as she saw her love approaching the gates on the north end of the castle. She rushed to the bridge to meet the others, but not before heading to the north end. She needed him to look into her eyes intensely, lovingly. She needed to touch him, feel him, and embrace him… perhaps for the last time.

© Mel Gutiér 2025