I met her years ago. I didn't know her story, I just knew she was skittish. I knew she was beautiful and strong and I knew I wanted to know more of her.

And yes, I wanted to be more than just her friend. I wanted everything with her. I thought I saw interest in her eyes, behind the worry, behind the insecurity, behind the need for peace.

I told myself I would be her peace.

But then she disappeared . . .

He scared me. There was so much he didn't know, but he intrigued me. I thought maybe I could give up the fear and the worry.

I thought maybe he could bring me ease, he could be my peace.

I wasn't ready to give up the control I had so carefully put together. I couldn't let him in all the way yet. And then I was given the chance to do something else. To go somewhere else. To make a change that I had complete control over.

And then he was there . . .