Stumble in Tandem

There was a glowing red splitting down the middle of the curtains, like a torch held to closed fingertips. The heat was all around our bodies and inescapable. I could feel the sweat on Holly's body. Or maybe it was on my palms. Either way I needed to get out of bed. I liked the early mornings anyway. If I woke too late, I always felt like a visitor to that day. It had been created without me and I was just tagging along. But today I rose with the sun and I feel as though, in some small way, I have helped create it. Outside, the sun splits the tree leaves that hang limply on their branches, the clouds are somewhere else - all gathered together above Fenworth, like a crowd of bullies hovering over their victim - the streets are alight with purpose as though today there is a celebration to be had; a carnival to be held; a race to be won. I have had a head start with my early eyes of the morning. I draw the curtains, pouring in the light to Holly's body, inviting her to join me.