Elsa and Fredo

by Lea Sheryn

Elsa knew Fredo loved her. After all, they attended school together. She loved his companionship. Even at the youngest age, he protected her. In kindergarten, he pushed her on the swing. As her brown pigtails flew out behind her, his laughter rang out. Cheerfully, she sang, "Rain Drops Keep Falling On My Head."

Every day after middle and high school, Fredo walked Elsa home. While she chatted easily, he carried her books. Soulfully, his brown eyes rested lightly on her. Her blossoming young breasts lifted her sweater. Her ponytail bobbed as she skipped beside him.

Elsa accompanied Fredo to the prom. They made a striking couple. His swarthy-skin and black hair complemented her peachy complexion and chestnut tresses. Pressed close together, they slowly danced to popular music. Lacing her fingers around his neck, Elsa sang, "Rain Drops Keep Falling On My Head" into his ear. Laughing, he pulled her against his yearning body.

Following their high school graduation, they attended the same college. In their senior year, they shared an off-campus apartment. Loving each other, they intended to marry.

Elsa wistfully spoke of the future as graduation drew closer. She believed they belonged together. However, Fredo became evasive. Neglectfully, she barely noticed his lack of response.

Leaving their school days behind, Elsa found an apartment in their old hometown. Packing her belongings, she anticipated the move. Much to her surprise, she realized Fredo's hasty departure. Then, she discovered a note on the kitchen table. Stunned, she held it between trembling fingers.

"Dear Elsa," she read.

"I love you. I will always love you. Leaving you weighs heavy on my heart. However, I am not good enough for you. You can do much better. I will never compete with the other men who will want you. It is better that I leave you now.

"All my best,

"Fredo."

The note slipped onto the table. Hot tears sorrowfully coursed down Elsa's cheeks.

"Fredo," her heart silently cried.

"Wrong!" Elsa's mind silently cried to the empty room. Loving him, she only wanted him. She did not care for other men. Fredo meant the world to her.

Hours passed before Elsa rose from her lonely seat. Mechanically, she packed her bags. As she collected her scattered belongings, she sang "Rain Drops Keep Falling On My Head." The bittersweet melody rang out around her.