As Thane ran breathlessly onward, his thoughts began to haunt him. Had he really been at fault for Maria's death?

It seemed like just yesterday when they had met through mutual friends at Joe's Christmas party. He recalled the cranberry sweater she had draped over her shoulders on that chilly night ten years ago and the raspiness in her voice as she said hello to him upon being introduced. There had been something sexy in that voice...and now, he felt an emptiness in the pit of his stomach that he knew would never again be filled. His eyes brimming with tears, he forced his legs to carry him farther and farther away. By this time, he could no longer see the lights of the city, and nothing but darkness lay before him.

He, Constantine and Caitlyn had been on Joe's veranda that first night, sipping martinis and enjoying the company. Thane's connection with Maria was instant. From the first "hello" to spending the whole rest of the evening in conversation with one another, Thane knew she was "the one". It wasn't that she was drop dead gorgeous. No, most would say that she was more average looking. Back then her hair was shorter, and she was a bit heavier, but in a healthy way. She had a radiant glow about her, and he was drawn to her in ways he couldn't explain. And that song...he couldn't get it out of his head. It had been playing the first time they had met which of course added to the whole romantic feeling. It seemed fitting that they would revisit that song numerous times throughout their years together, but it was just so unacceptable tonight!

Why did she have to play that song? Maybe if she hadn't, none of this would have happened, and he would still be pouring her wine and trying to make up for what they had lost in such a self-centered, foolish way.