We walk into the paddock, which sits above the house, on a rise. To our right, with the perfect view of the horizon, is an old concrete tank. ‘Please god tell me she doesn’t want to go swimming in there or something?’ I think to myself. Reaching up, she begins to climb the ladder. “Meadow, what the hell are you doing?” I call out to her.

When she looks down at me, she wobbles and I quickly climb up behind her. At least if she falls now, I’ll soften the blow. Following her up and onto the roof of the tank, I realise that she doesn’t want to swim, she only wants to sit.

“This is the only place that allows me to feel anything close to weightless, a place that mimics the feeling you have been able to gift me tonight. This is my place of escape.” Her eyes have sadness behind them, even as she smiles covering up her deepest confession with lighthearted humour. “It’s a secret though, so don’t go telling anyone.”

Secrets — that is what started it all. If only she knew. Maybe one day; one day she can know, it’s always been her.

Her voice beckons my attention and I glance her way, her head is tilted to the side, brows drawn together. I laugh, she’s so cute when she’s in this mood.

“What are you thinking about?” She presses when I don’t answer her silent question.

I consider lying to her, but I doubt she will remember tomorrow. “You,” I answer with only one word and the most beautiful rosy colour spreads over her freckles. “I’ll keep your secret, if you can keep mine,” I whisper, leaning in close. Kinsley closes the gap between us and I cup her cheek in my palm. Dusting my lips over hers, I pause giving her the chance to pull away. She doesn’t, instead she kisses me back gently, almost lovingly. I slow the kiss and pull back. “Happy Birthday, Meadow.”

Her smile is all the confirmation I need. She sees me, even if she doesn’t know it.

“M-my phone,” I say on ragged breaths. “A video — for Kinsley.”

Warren grabs my face with both hands. “Whatever you want to say to our girl, you will tell her yourself. She’s here. Let’s go Jesse; just focus on me.”