I remember the date and what you wore and what the weather was like on the day we first met each other. You were only twelve then and beauty radiated from you like golden sun rays wherever you set your precious foot. I also remember that you said "hello" in a sweet voice that sounded like love. At first I was scared. You were a Child Goddess, so beautiful I trembled in your angelic presence. It was hard to say "I love you" to someone so young and divine. But my eyes, my hands and my heart kept saying it for me... until "I love you" became the most beautiful word of all our treasured moments together.

I didn't know that love could be this way, that I could love and receive love from a little twelve-year-old girl, however beautiful and innocent she is. I didn't know that love could be my food and drink, my sun all day, my dreams at night, my thoughts, words, fears, hopes... and joy! I have a treasure in my heart... a priceless collection of tender memories that remind me of your tender love. To anyone else they would be worthless but they are very dear to me... precious souvenirs of two of us.

I remember one day when everything went wrong. It was one of THOSE days until we met after your school, turning my day happy with your mischievous smile, your long kiss on my lips right in front of your teachers watching us... the gentle touch of your little hand on my face and soft giggles flowing against my ear...

I love the strong you, encircling my happiness with your little arms as if you don't want to let me go. I love the childlike you, when you say silly things in that cute little voice. I love the tender you, your pouting lips while holding my hand gently, our fingers entwined, as we walk in the shadows of the street.

Four weeks ago when coming home from work, I saw a little blonde girl about your age from the back and thought it was you. I ran to her, calling your name... and when she turned, seeing my surprise and disappointment, she looked disappointed too, knowing she wasn't the one, knowing that her face wasn't my beloved child who brought me such joy.

Do I trust you? What a silly question. Of course I trust you. I trust you completely! Almost. But without the almost I probably wouldn't love you in the fist place. If you should go away and years begin to fade away the memories... my heart and skin will still remember the way it felt to be close to you. And my hands would still remember the way it felt to hold your precious twelve-year-old weight in my arms and clearly feel the touch of your soul and happiness as you dozed off, safe in my embrace. I love you Annie and I trust you more than I trust myself, and remember this my little love... You will always be the girl in my life for all times.

I LOVE YOU.

The End