“I promise you’ve got the wrong girl!” she stared at me. I just smiled and took her arm. Leading her down a hallway, I stopped in front of the portrait of Erak. Maybe this would help her remember everything. Remember me.

Addie didn't show any sign of recognition when she saw the painting, so I launched into the story of Erak. She was intrigued by my story, but she still didn’t see the connection. So I also explained how she fit into the story. I explained how the story wasn’t just a story, it was her story. She looked shocked, confused…lonely.

Before I knew it, she had turned to run. In desperation, I reached out and grabbed her, pulling her into an embrace.

“Let me go!” she cried, “I have to go home! I have to wake up!”

But she couldn’t leave me. Not now. Not ever. Not like this…

“Addie,” I whispered. I  buried my face in her beautiful hair that still smelled of sunlight, “Addie,” I repeated.

She shivered, “Please?”

“I’m sorry. I cannot let you go. I am not the only demon out there. you wouldn't be safe. Stay with me.” I turned her to face me and grabbed her chin, raising her eyes to meet mine.

Please. Remember me! You have to remember me! I don’t know what happened to you, but even though you can’t remember me, you are still beautiful still perfect. You are still mine!

“You are mine,” I said soothingly, “I love you. Don’t go. Stay.” Please just remember me…please love me like I love you. I know you can remember. You’ll understand and you’ll want to stay with me.

 “I can’t,” her words were like a whip cold, sharp, and stinging.