His heart was beating fast.

His life hung on her next gesture; 

he was glad.

He was so irrationally happy,

it was like a shock of silent joy.

All his thoughts were intoxicating; 

all night in the blackness and with

all the long misery

Ethan felt in his heart.

He was a prisoner for life—

there was no way out.

The glow of passion sent a pang through him

and her presence flooded him.

Another eye catching a glimpse but

a storm of jealousy suffused him.

So violent, the bitterness, and vain effort.

What destruction of his hopes.

He felt the dumb melancholy, 

and no ray of light.

None.

And still he couldn't let her go.