Ever since I saw him the first time, I loved him. Every day from then on, I have stayed by him. I intend to remain by his side forever. But I was mortal, he was eternal. Yet, it had been that day that I had awoken to find them on my back. And for the first time, I flew.

One day, he asks me if we may fly. Together.

Of course he does. I knew that eventually, that was to be expected. We were best friends, after all. I love him, and my love makes me agree, despite the risks I know in my heart.

Above the clouds, I am free.

Perhaps I can tell him.

I carry him in my arms, silent, for a while. His are damaged, he hasn’t flown in years. I see the joy in his eyes, and I wonder why fate cursed me that day.

I begin to tell him of my feelings, but he interrupts my words. I am like a brother to him, he says.

When I do not reply, he asks what is wrong. It hurts, to know he cares about me so deeply, but will never love me as I love him.

I tell him I have made a decision.

I say I want him to fly forever.

He is confused. He starts to explain again that he cannot fly.

I look at him, tears brimming my eyes.

I know.

But I would give mine up for him.

I take the small blade from his belt.

And I cut them.

Wings are odd, they seem to possess a magic that lets them know their intended purpose.

In an instant, his wings, tattered and broken, fall away, and mine, golden and perfect, replace them.

He does not appear to understand.

In the moment before I fall, our eyes meet, but fate does not let us speak.

I hope he will understand.

I let him go.

And I plummet.