I smiled at her.
“Yeah, I know.”
“It’s going to take Caleb longer to understand though, you know that right?” Ruby asked searching my expression.
I nodded and forced a smile.
“I know.”
“It may be better if you weren’t around us for a while…”
Just the thought of that scent a spear right through my heart, but I nodded anyway.
If that was what they needed from me right now, I can do that. For them, I can do anything.
I heard a soft crunch behind me and I spun around, half afraid I'd see Malcolm standing there. I sighed with relief when my eyes took in the sight before me. About thirty children stood huddled together, their cloths and bodies covered with the ashes of their families. Dirty tear streaks trailed down their faces. And none of them could meet my eyes as they walked towards us.
“I guess we’re all orphans now,” Ruby said with a haggard sigh.
“What are you going to do about all of them?” I asked her.
“I have no clue,” she answered honestly with another slight shrug. “But I’ll figure it out. We’ll make it through this.”
“Alright,” I sigh.
I turned to face all of them, and backed up until I was a good six feet away from them. They stood with their backs straight and their heads held high. Their eyes were filled with a mix of grief, determination, and a small glimmer of hope.
“You did it Drifter. You're free.” Ruby said with a bitter sweet smile.
I smiled at her in return and nodded. “Take care of the Earth children,” I whispered. “You've been given a second chance. And remember, if you ever need me, all you have to do is call. Even though you won’t see me, I’ll always be there for you. I love you guys. And that will never change. ”
Ruby’s smile wobbled and a few tears finally broke free.
“We love you too.”
That was as sweet as birdsong to my ears. I smiled and i noticed a tiny face peeking out at me through the woods. His tiny hand rose to wave a small good bye. Satisfied, I closed my eyes.
“Good-bye,” I sighed.
Inhale...exhale...inhale...exhale...Steady and predictable just like a heartbeat. In and out... In and out...
My body tingled from head to toe. Then my body felt weightless. Lighter than a feather. Then it felt like I was suddenly spinning through the air, faster and faster. Travelling up and up and up.Then everything stopped. Very slowly I opened my eyes…
End
Earth Bound Page 12
