HANDLE WITH CARE

love and patience

With these hands, how do I handle something so fragile? Once abused and neglected. Raped and hospitalized. A tortured past of which I cannot go back and change for HER. All we have is now and onward. Of course, there was a beginning. We were introduced. I fell in love. In the blink of an eye. I was helpless. She was quiet but always loving. We settled for kisses and holding hands. I became frustrated. I wanted more.Then came the explanation and it changed everything. How do I say I love you besides using words? How do I say I need you without making you feel pressured? How do I say I want you without touching your body that still needs healing? The remnants of bruises and scars are still visible on her body. She will never forget. Forgiveness is buried so deep inside of her there is no light that can reach it. There are late night phone calls due to recurring nightmares. Memories of the past distract her in the middle of conversations. I always announce my presence beforehand when she is not expecting me. Occasionally when we disagree I keep my demeanor calm never volatile. There are other precautions that I take because although she's getting better each day, there is no deadline for a broken heart to get better. She will never trust anyone completely again. Never give anyone her heart fully. Never love again without restrictions. But I accept it. Because I love her. I know there should be more of an explanation than that, but I just do. Now and always.Someday the healing will end. We will show that we love each other with more than just words, but also with our bodies. We will take care of each other and we will start a new life...She is in my arms. She kisses me. I say "I love you." She whispers in my ear "thank you." I smile and close my eyes... Where else in the world would I rather be?

Author's Note

Dedicated to Courtney and other survivors and the people that love them

Reviews

[Yari Garcia]

I find this story to be very realistic. A relationship with someone who has been through trauma requires care, compassion, and patience.

I enjoyed that you managed to express the speaker's longing for more of her, without making him seem selfish. Very well done.

Yari

[Elisa]

This is so amazing and the girl you are talking about is very lucky to have ou in her life

[Sachi Ruaya]

I agree with Elisa :)

[J. Hampton]

Timely...with the given "Me Too" movement
I haven't see many write from the perspective of a survivor's supporter
It takes a lot to be that guy
kudos

[marilyn 1225]

life is full of misery but the two of you in the story will overcome it... she has been brutalized but your actual visits and physical presence will help her ... beautifully written as always.