Rumors of Suicide

Sean tightened his straps and set his feet on the edge. The wind was whipping his hair into his eyes, making it hard to get his goggles on without trapping strands of it, but after a few frustrating attempts, they finally slipped into place. Looking down, he realized the clouds had blown away while he had been climbing, and the view from up here was mind blowing. He could see the whole campus spread out before him, the tops of the buildings far below. Hearing a noise, he spun around, almost losing his footing. Annabelle clung to the top of the ladder, holding out a hand for his help. Sighing, he jumped down and grabbed it, swinging her bodily over the rail.

“What are you doing up here?” He shouted over the gusts blowing his words into the ether. She shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“You jump, I jump, remember?” She wiped her nose on her sleeve rebelliously. He reached out and drew her into his arms.

“It’s not what you think.” He said tenderly. “I’ve got my chute.” She removed her coat, revealing the pack strapped to her back.

“So have I.” A wave of love struck him at her temerity. He released her and taking her hand, turned back to the edge. She stepped up beside him, smiling through her tears.

“I never believed it, you know?”

He nodded.

“Then why…?” He put a finger over her lips.

“I just love it. The feeling. There’s nothing like it.” He tried to explain. Her lips firmed.

“Same here. So stop leaving me out of it.” Tears still stood in her eyes.

“Never again.” He promised. “Ready?” She nodded, eyes on the football field, their target.

“On three?” She nodded again.

“Three!” They shouted together, and jumped.