my hands shook as i gently placed my bike against the cement, hoping she didn't notice me.

a numb feeling grew in my stomach as i pushed open the cold, steel gate.

my gaze softened as i approached her, and i sat down on my knees.

it took her a few moments to realize someone was here.

when she turned to me, i could see all the hope leaving her eyes in the form of water and the pain that was sketched deep into her skin.

she sniffed and smudged her tears across her face and looked at me.

"what are you doing here?"

my tongue seized up in my throat and i struggled to answer what she had asked.

what was i doing here?

i had no reason to be here.

ignoring my invasive thoughts, i took her hand in my own and looked at the gravestones.

"hello, mrs. and mr. olivia. my name is cole."

olivia looked at me like i was crazy.

maybe i was.

shaking my tousled hair, i cleared my throat, pushing away the feelings for her.

"your daughter is spectacular. she's incredibly beautiful and smart. you'd be very proud of her."

i swallowed the lump in my throat. 

"i wish you were here, so i could meet both of you."

olivia's eyes glistened with tears and she squeezed my hand.

she didn't need to say anything; i knew what she was saying.

she rested her head on my shoulder and we gazed at the two matching graves, wondering what it would be like if her parents were still here.