“You promised thrills and excitement on this vacation,” said Mike to her parents. “I think you delivered, and then some. Mind-blowing! Can we come next year too?”
“Sure, but do you really think it could top all this?” Casey’s mom gestured around her, and they all broke out in laughter.
Thorn shifted in his chair as his gaze wandered toward Casey. “Are you ready to land?”
Casey grinned. She’d never wanted anything more in her entire life.
Chapter 6
The ship slowed to a halt. Any minute, her feet would touch the sweet, solid ground. Casey breathed out. They’d destroyed the rebel ship and survived the tumble through the wormhole. Soon, all this space business would be over.
The Agarthians clustered around her, their voices filled with excitement. At any moment the door would open, freeing her from her duties as a participant on this mission. Casey clung to the cold, metal wall, her heart pounding as she waited for the next step to show her mission had finally come to an end. The engines whirred for a moment longer, then died down.
“Dude, Thorn got us back to Earth in one piece,” said Mike.
With so much happening, she’d almost forgotten about him. Once they traveled back to California, she might not get another chance to set things straight with him. Casey took a deep breath to brace herself and pulled Mike aside, their backs turned to the gathered Agarthians.
“What can I do for you?” asked Mike, the hint of a smile playing on his lips. He was in a good mood, which she knew might change once realization kicked in.
She drew a sharp breath, gathering her thoughts one last time before she whispered, “I’m sorry. I know seeing me with Jack must’ve been a shock. I just hope it doesn’t change anything between us.”
“It didn’t take you long to find someone to replace me, huh?” He shook his head. “And here I’ve always thought myself to be irreplaceable.”
It was hardly fair when he kept replacing every girl with someone else a few weeks into dating, but she kept that part to herself. There was no point in alienating him further. In spite of what happened, she still valued his friendship. “I never tried to replace you, Mike.” She crossed her arms over her chest, preparing herself for the arguing ahead, but it never came.
“I know that,” whispered Mike. “As much as I hate to say it, he’s the better choice anyway. He can give you so many things I can’t.”
Like faithfulness? She snickered but let him continue.
“Nothing will change between us.”
“You sure?” She smiled shyly.
Mike grabbed her shoulders and held her at arm’s length, pulling her into a tight hug. “Yup. Besides, you could never have handled all those screamin’ girls at my competitions, and I’m not good at dealing with drama and jealousy.”
She nodded, peeling herself away from him. “You’re probably right. What’re we gonna do now?”
His smile looked a little forced as he shrugged. “Get home and enjoy things as they were.”
“I think I have something that belongs to you.” She grinned as she unfastened the shark tooth necklace. Her throat tightened at the expression on his face. “Thanks for letting me borrow it. It means a lot that you trusted me with something so special.” She fastened the black cord around Mike’s neck. “Always remember you’re a survivor.”
“And so are you,” he whispered, his hand wandering to the pendant around his neck. He smiled as they walked back to where Jack stood petting Blue.
Jack shot him a questioning look. “You guys ever going to fill me in on what happened between you two?”
Mike snorted, slapping him on the back. “What’s there to say? I leave you two alone for five minutes and you steal her away from me.” He laughed and turned toward Casey. “No, all joking aside, you got yourself a great guy, that’s for sure.”
Casey gazed up at Jack, grinning. She hoped it didn’t come across as she felt inside: guilty. “Yes I do, and I’m glad we’re cool again.”
He winked. “You can bet on it.”
The hatch opened with a click, and the ramp extended. Bells filled the air with their rich, deep tones. White rose petals floated and fell on her head like snow. It was as if she had stepped into a fairytale. Casey peered at the lush, green foliage stretching to her feet. Wow. The lawn was immaculate. One thing was for sure: These people definitely won the war against crabgrass, and her dad would be impressed. The garden stretched out as far as the eye could see, spilling over with hundreds of flowers swaying in the gentle breeze.
Life-sized statues of magnificent warriors in different battle positions dotted the beautiful plot of land. Respect and honor flooded through her. No wonder General Ashtar had said it was a place reserved for heroes. To her right, rock-trimmed waterfalls poured into blue pools. She picked a red flower off a towering bush as she took a deep breath of its strange scent; it smelled line incense. Something shiny caught Casey’s eye. She pushed the high bushes aside to reveal beautiful glass angels beneath. White light danced and shimmered on their crystal wings, trumpets, and harps.
Casey turned in time to see her mom and dad walking forward, their gaze fixed on a point over her head. She followed their line of vision to the hundreds of people in long, flowing garments, gathering as they drew closer. Everyone clapped and cheered at the top of their voices. If the people had been adorned with wings and halos, she would have sworn she was in heaven.
She wondered if they were all there to greet her and her friends. Blue buried his nose into her palm as though to give her the strength to move ahead. She smiled as he stood loyally at her side. Taking a few steps forward, she was overcome with emotion, the first pangs of tears pricking her eyes. They had left as strangers and returned to new friends who rejoiced and embraced them.
“Welcome back, young heroes,” General Ashtar said through the downpour of blossoms. “Petals are thrown as a sign of honor when a star warrior risks their life.”
Casey nodded. “Thank you.”
General Ashtar turned to face her parents. “You have a very brave daughter. I hope my own children will be like her.”
Casey’s father wrapped his arm around her. “We couldn’t be prouder.”
She felt a hot flush spreading across her cheeks. “Thanks, Dad.”
“Who’s the hero, huh?” Mike’s loud voice cut through the air as he laughed and danced from one person to the next. He definitely had a flair for the dramatic, and the people there seemed to love every minute of it, which encouraged him even more.
As soon as Thorn stepped through the door, the cheering grew louder. Over and over again, the people of Agartha yelled out his name.
“So this must be Jack in person,” said General Ashtar.
Casey looked up at Jack, her heartbeat spiking. “Yes, it’s him.”
General Ashtar shook his hand. “It’s such an honor to make your acquaintance in person. We’re forever in your debt.”
“It’s very nice to meet you, but it’s me who is in your debt. Without your help, I’d still be up there.” He wagged his finger above his head. “Thank you.”
Loud cries echoed behind Casey, and she turned to look. The freed prisoners ran off the ship to embrace their loved ones. Some were still in shock, while others laughed or wept, falling to their knees. One ran her hands back and forth across the grass and thanked God she was home.
Casey wiped her face with a trembling hand as she continued to watch the touching display ahead of her. A woman with long red hair and the same gold highlights as Kira sobbed uncontrollably. She wrapped her arms around Kira and her father, the whole family melting into each other’s embrace. Even though it was a beautiful sight to see them so happy, Casey turned away, feeling guilty for spying on such a private moment.
“I’m ready to get home and do some stargazing,” said Jack.
He looked so cute when he shot her his easygoing grin, and she wondered if he meant what she thought he meant, if he hoped to go home and find his spec
ial star. She stole a gaze toward him. He winked, his face flushed and glowing.
The general held up a hand. “No, not yet. I’m a man of my word and will let you go home, but first we must celebrate! Tomorrow, we’ll prepare a big feast for you. I’ll take you back to the surface myself.”
“And General, if you don’t mind, I’d like to join you also on the ride back to the surface,” said Thorn.
The general’s eyebrows shot up. “Of course. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
“Got room for one more?”
Casey spun, amazed to hear the familiar voice. He looked just like before: tall and blond, but this time, he had a friendly smile perched on his lips. She threw her arms open to hug him. “Orthon!”
He scooped her up and spun her around, grinning. “You pulled it off!”
“Jack, this is Orthon,” said Mike. “He’s the one who rescued us after the aliens zapped you.”
“It’s so wonderful to meet you.” Jack shook his hand.
Orthon grasped it firmly, his knuckles turning white. “Likewise.”
Casey’s dad gave her a gentle poke in the side. “This story’s going to make for some lovely dinner conversation.”
She rolled her eyes. “Dad, you talk about this at a dinner party, and they’ll haul you off to the nearest loony bin.”
Her mom’s grin widened. “Do you think anyone would believe us?”
“I wouldn’t,” said Mike, snickering.
Blue stared up with big eyes, and a purring sound filled the air. The beast sounded like an idling engine, then rolled over for a tummy rub. Casey bent over and ran her fingers loosely through the lodomodo’s long, thick coat as she leaned her cheek against his soft fur. “You’re coming home with me, aren’t you?”
General Ashtar cringed. “I can’t advise that. You’ll have to leave the lodomodo here. We’ll give him a great home.”
She shook her head, surprised at how determined she was. “I’m not leaving Blue here in Agartha.” The connection and bond they shared was nothing short of amazing, and she couldn’t bear the thought of being separated from him. After what he’d been through with Commander Tio, she’d show him compassion, kindness, and love. “We own lots of land. Nobody will ever see him if that’s your concern.”
“The creature has bonded with her,” said Thorn. “You know you can’t keep him. He’ll find his way to her no matter what.”
“Thorn’s right,” said General Ashtar. “I have no choice in the matter. Just keep Blue hidden at all times. I’ll get someone to give you lessons on proper care for him.”
“Thank you. I’ll give Blue the best home ever.” She peered down at him as she continued, “He’ll never experience pain and sadness again.” She’d spoil him rotten and show him that an owner doesn’t have to be horrible.
“Do you think it’ll be hard going back home with everything we know?” said Jack. “We don’t have the privilege of disbelief anymore.”
Mike folded his arms and shook his head. “It’s not like we can talk about it. Nobody will believe us. I’ve thought about it. If I even breathe the word ‘aliens,’ the public will label me a freak. I have my entire surfing career ahead of me. I want to turn pro, and that’s what I have to focus on. Besides, I have a major competition in four weeks.”
Jack nodded. “It’ll be our secret to share.”
“I’ll fill my art studio with the most beautiful portraits ever.” Casey reached for Jack’s hand and shot him a smirk. “But don’t worry. I won’t show them to anyone but us.” She winked. “I can keep a secret.”
Mike took her other hand in his. “I can too.”
She raised both their hands in the air. “Then it’s official. Our lips are sealed.”
They all laughed.
“Let’s get our heroes something to eat,” said General Ashtar, walking over. Two teenagers dressed in white flowing robes brought over large baskets brimming with exotic fruits and vegetables.
Mike broke away and wrapped his arms around the girls’ shoulders, crooning, “Hi, ladies.”
The girls giggled.
“Typical Mike. He sees a pretty face and just can’t help himself,” said Jack.
Casey smirked. “So much for his undying love for me. I think I’ll just stick to having him as a best friend.”
“Yeah, you’ll see more of him that way.” Jack paused. “Wait a minute…if he’s your best friend, what does that make me?”
“My boyfriend.” She pulled him close. “For a smart guy, you’re kinda dumb.”
Grinning, he pressed his lips against hers.
She rose on her toes, eager to seal their kiss. Never in a million years would she have thought she’d be going home with Jack on her arm as her boyfriend. It’s funny how things work out.
Somewhere behind them, Mike laughed, and she relaxed into Jack’s embrace. All things considered, Mike was going to be just fine.
“They don’t have burgers. They’re vegetarians.” Mike picked up something that looked similar to a carrot, but instead of orange, it was tan, and its leafy top reminded them of parsley. He walked back over to Casey and Jack. “Is this the weirdest carrot you’ve ever seen or what?”
One of the attractive girls smirked. “It’s an arracacha.”
Mike grimaced. “Whatever that is, I’ll pass.”
Jack laughed. “Beggars can’t be choosers.”
“I had these in Hawaii.” Casey pulled a bright yellow star fruit out of the basket. “Try one. They’re delicious.”
Mike turned to Jack. He shook the arracacha in the air. “They love vegetables, Jack. Think they have chocolate? It comes from cocoa beans, and beans are vegetables. How about French fries? I mean they are potatoes, which are vegetables…”
And so Mike rambled on and on. Some things just never change.
Jack smiled and inched closer, draping his arm around Casey as he nodded to something Mike said. She’d traveled around the world with her parents and thought she’d seen it all. She could now add space travel and seeing the interior of Earth to her resume. Who would have thought that a trip to Fiji would have taken her so very far? But sometimes, things don’t go according to plan, and that was okay with her. Like Jack said, you can’t fight destiny.
Epilogue
One year later…
Waves softly lapped against the shore, and the sand glistened in the moonlight. A cool summer breeze swept across Casey’s face. She stared into the crackling bonfire and pondered. One year ago, to the day, Casey, Jack, and Mike had saved Earth’s population. She wondered if the Agarthians were celebrating the anniversary too. After all, they’d rewarded her beyond her wildest dreams. Her parents’ house, cars, and bills had been mysteriously paid for. Casey and Jack were offered full scholarships from every prestigious college around the country. Mike even got a major role in a movie with big-time stars. Prosperity hit them from every direction, and she couldn’t have been more thankful. Everyone raved how lucky they were, but Casey knew luck had nothing to do with it, and so did Mike and Jack. Somebody was looking out for them.
Jack wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close. “I grabbed us a blanket from the trunk.” He looked up and pointed. “I see somebody’s star.”
A large star twinkled to the left. “It’s beautiful.” Just like him. She felt the telltale heat rising in her cheeks whenever he touched her—the butterfly-flying-to-the-moon-and-back sensation she’d always expected. “And look, there’s the one I picked out for you,” said Casey. “Happy birthday.”
In the pale light, his blue eyes shimmered as he flashed his perfect gleaming smile. “Thanks, babe.”
Blue started barking as leaves rustled and twigs snapped. Hiding him for the first two months had proven to be a hard task because she always worried about being discovered. She had no idea how she would explain a wolf-like pet who happened to be blue and the size of a lion. Finally, the general provided Blue with a special collar that turned him invisible if it sensed other human
s around who weren’t programmed into the device. Blue stirred behind her, growling some more. Casey patted his head. “Shh, boy.”
“You two lovebirds starting the party without me?” asked Mike, setting down a white cardboard box and shopping bag on the blanket. The delicious smell of pepperoni pizza drifted in the air, making her stomach rumble.
“You’re late,” said Casey. She tried to sound nonchalant, as though she wasn’t thinking of how she’d lost count of the number of dates he had this year, but it felt strange all the same. When Mike and she had broken up before things even started properly, it took him a while to forgive and forget.
Mike laughed and ruffled her hair. “I actually had to ditch my date early so I could buy Jack’s favorite chips for his birthday.” He tossed him a big bag of Doritos. “Happy birthday, bro.”
He grinned. “Thanks, Mike.”
“No problem. This is one night that should just be the three of us, ya know? To reminisce about all our secret adventures.”
Casey gestured at the Milky Way, blanketed by stars. “I still can’t believe we were up there.”
“It was amazing. Do you know what’s even more amazing?” Jack looked at Mike and cocked an eyebrow. “That we’ve managed to keep it between the three of us…and, uh, Casey’s parents.”
Her parents’ lips were sealed after General Ashtar gave them a long talk about national security and the promise to return home on one condition—that they’d never speak of Agartha.
Casey elbowed Mike. “Yeah, but you’ve got to quit fighting with the history teacher over what color a wooly mammoth is or how long claws are on a T-rex.” She opened the chips, tossed a few in her mouth, and then set the bag down on the blanket.
“I’ll try, but the books are clueless.” Mike laughed, throwing each one of them a soda.
Termination - Book 9 in The Trapped in the Hollow Earth Novelette Series (The Conclusion) Page 6
