by H. J. Bellus
“I understand,” he said looking down. “I know you have to go, and that it’s supposed to be better…” Oren told himself he was going to be strong, and not cry. “I just wish it wasn’t so soon.”
“You are not alone in that,” she said gently. “Listen, I have something important to tell you.” She leaned forward and beckoned him closer so that no one else would hear. “My time here is limited, little one, and there are some things you should know before I’m gone.” Oren looked up at her expectantly. “Your father is a good man. He controls his own destiny. Most other men believe what they want to, their lives shaped largely by their desires. They condemn what they do not understand, and destroy the reasons for living so that they may live. You must be different, Oren.”
He looked into her blue-green eyes questioningly.
“The coming winds bring small change, but great things come from small beginnings. Other things,” a hint of a smile crossed her lips, “collapse of their own weight.”
Oren furrowed his brow, attempting to decipher the meaning behind her words.
“You are still young, child, and have much to learn of the world. Do not take all you hear at face value, and do not value all you face without careful consideration.”
Oren nodded, “Yes Noni.”
“Good boy,” she said smiling fondly. She cupped his face in her hands. “Above all, remember that no matter how bad things get, you must not despair. We are capable of far more than you could ever imagine.” She looked for a moment at his face, then said, “Now be a good son and help your mother in the kitchen. She has many mouths to feed tonight.”
“Yes Noni,” he repeated, standing up and making his way to the kitchen. He had a lot to think about, and spent much of the night trying to process it all. His chest ached fiercely at the thought of never seeing Noni again. He knew in his head that it was right for this to happen, but his heart was conflicted. He helped to clean up after all the guests had gone home, and when the end of the night finally came, he collapsed onto his bed and fell asleep still wearing his clothes.
RECREANCE
Book one of the Aeternum Chronicles
Get it today on Amazon
Acknowledgments
My sincerest thanks to everyone who has been a part of this story. This includes my loving wife, Melanie, who provided invaluable insight into how a young woman would think and react. A huge thank you to Jane Tucker, for your brilliant suggestions, and masterful editing. Lastly, thanks to all of you for reading this book. Your support is what allows me to keep writing.
Newsletter
Thank you for reading Windwalker!
Would you like access to exclusive content, including concept art, deleted scenes, character bios, and more? Sign up for the H.G. Chambers monthly newsletter, and all of this can be yours! You’ll also be the first to hear about new releases.
Sign Up
Or visit the website at www.hgchambers.com
