Rain on the petals
Drifting through the air

I step closer. Rose is facing the ocean, her soft voice echoing gently between the sand and the shore.

Seeing the stars,
Knowing we shouldn't care
But fighting each day
Because we can love

She turns a little towards me, not looking at me, but still somehow registering my presence. I take a step closer.

That's the only future
That I dream of.

I tilt my head down as she begins to walk towards me. "That's a lovely song, my quartz,"

Rose ponders for a moment, and I can feel her gaze on me. "It isn't true. Not anymore,"

"Might you explain?" I meet her eyes hopefully.

Rose gestures to the world around her. "This is a beautiful place. It used to be the only thing I wanted. But now that I really know you...there's another future I want as well."

I reach my hand out halfway, as if I intended to comfort her. I did, but I stopped myself. Rose turns and laces her fingers through mine, pulling me a bit closer.

Leaning down, she whispers, "I want you in my future,"

I blush, "M-my Quartz,"

"My Pearl?"

"I l-love you too,"

Rose smiles. "I hoped you do, my Pearl. Promise me that you'll be a part of my future?"

I nod.