Madi is struck then, by the sense that she won't see John's face again for an agonizingly long time. It hollows her out inside, leaving just her heart and a coil of dread and longing that tightens around it. She puts one hand to his cheek and kisses him.For that kiss, there is no rush, no time being wasted, no urgency, just heartbeats and breath and gentleness and something like love.

"Then hurry back to me." Yes, she'll miss him, too.