"..."
"You love Ellie, you idiot."
Feeling like he was sinking into an endless abyss, Simon squeezed his eyes shut.
***
"Mr. Vice President."
"..."
"Mr. Vice President, wake up."
"Ellie...?"
"What's wrong with our Vice President today? Sleeping in so late."
Simon's eyes flew open at the gentle voice. The voice he had missed so achingly was right beside him.
As he sat up in bed, to his surprise, Ellie was there next to him. Simon reached out with both hands, caressing Ellie's hands as if he couldn't believe it.
"Where did you go...?"
"Where would I go? I'm always by your side, Mr. Vice President."
As he felt the warm touch from their clasped hands, Simon snapped to his senses. Afraid he might lose her again, he hurriedly got up and pulled Ellie's slender body into a tight embrace. It was a desperate and urgent gesture, as if to prevent her from leaving his side again.
