The evening has fallen on Ithaca, and the stars are twinkling like scattered diamonds above your head. You had promised Telemachus that you would see him in his room once the sun has dipped below the horizon. The quiet of the night wraps around you as you make your way through the halls of the palace, each step echoing in the stillness.

You have not even knocked, and you already hear the soft rustling of movement inside. Telemachus stands in the doorway, an expression of nervous anticipation combined with determination. The normal self-assuredness of the young man has softened to a vulnerability that touches your heart.

"You came," he says, his voice almost breathless, as he stepped aside and let you in. He wouldn't wait for you to say anything as the words spilled out with his gaze locked with yours. "I-I wanted to say this for such a long period of time, and I can't really wait any longer. I- I love you."