Set A Place For Me

I have neglected the emperor for several months, yet he recieves me today as if he saw me only yesterday. I contemplate that as he busies himself preparing the tea. He has settled himself into a role of service, for he has insisted that I sit. So i think of moments when I have been away from friends and how different their reactions are compared to that of this tiny little emperor. I can almost hear those joyous shouts of surprise, feel those tender hugs of love, and see those eyes that delight in recognition. It is a most wonderful feeling; the mere memory of it just as pleasing as the physical manifestation. I suppose that feeling comes from the need to be thought of in a pleasing manner. We like to be missed.

So I contemplate the emperor's reception of me after so many months. It was warm, but not a jubilation. Yet, I feel a comfortable knowing attatched to this mild reception. I feel that even after my long absence that my place had been saved. I feel it is permissible to slide back into this chair that I had occupied so many times. I feel as if my long journey had brought me home.
As the turns to bring the tea, I realize he has prepared tea everyday as if I was going to be present. A single tear , slides down my cheek as the emperor sets the tea on the table. He looks at me thoughtfully and says,"It's good to be home, isn't it?" I simply nod to prevent the flow that hide behind my eyes. He pours the tea and we sip quietly as we have done so many times before.