A Broken Man

He did end up dating some. Even dating a woman for several years. He was never able to get to the point of remarrying though. He gave and received love in the years since his redemption, but it would never quite match up to what he had with Christine. As much as he wanted to be open, wanted the possibility to be there for someone new to take over, he understood there would always be a comparison. It wouldn't be fair.

His dalliance with an angel all those years ago gave him a lifelong interest in the supernatural and the spiritual. He had consumed many volumes on the topic. However, he had been unable to get through Paradise Lost. This being the fifth time he had tried.

It would also be the last. James knew he didn't have much time left. They say it is better to live life without regret. James couldn't do that. He would always regret the time he spent walled off from the world. Christine had been right. He had too much love to give. He regretted not sharing it for those years. It was not something he could now change, but he swore he would not forget it, lest he repeat it.

He hoped for a few more days, just to get through the damn book and hopefully see a bit more of spring before he left. He slowly got up off the bench, his days of doing anything quickly long behind him.

James smiled, looked up at the sky, and stated, "I'll see you soon sweetie."