You stood in the snow, staring at nothing and everything all at once. Beside you stood Tumnus. There were things that needed to be said between you, but neither of you wanted to take the first step. Braving the deep silence, you gave a soft sigh and turned to face the faun you'd loved.

"The love is gone."

Tumnus turned to face you with a small grimace, tears in his eyes.

"You've noticed, too?"

You nodded and took his hands in your own as you went on, choking up a little;

"The love is gone. The sweetest dream that we have ever known."

"The love is gone."

You began to tear up as well as he acknowledged the dismal truth, repeating the words once more:

"The love is gone."

before adding with a genuine, sad smile, leaning in to hug him;

"I wish you well, but I must leave you now alone."

He nodded and you stepped back, the warmth of his embrace fading as you turned away.

Inspired by the song "When Love Is Gone" from The Muppet Christmas Carol. ()