Chapter 9
I touched one of the tips, remembering something my father said to me long before the end. “It’s a sign of my people, of those that came before and lived by the earth. At one with nature. They may look strange and people may not understand, but in a strange way they give me more power than my abilities. They let me know that I was born for more than I am.”
Miya hugged me from behind and even though we were both naked, I knew she did it to comfort me as I had her. We got out in silence and pulled the plunge, allowing the dirty water to wash away down the drain. I looked in the mirror that was still intact as Miya got dressed in baggy trousers and a long-sleeved top. I had hazel eyes that were more gold than brown, my mousy hair uncontrollable and wild, my freckles the shade of a bruised orange. I sighed heavily, hiding my pointed ears in my ponytail as I had always done. Normally I had a hat over them as well, though I didn’t see the need for that around my new companion. She didn’t judge me for my race or their mistakes, so I would not Judge her for hers.
We sat in front of the fire with our feast that consisted of tinned meat, dried fruits and rice, a steaming cup of creamy coffee by our side as we laughed and made jokes that we remembered from a time before the end of humanity. It was refreshing, relaxed. It was something that I hadn’t realised I had been longing for, that I didn’t know I needed. But now? I wasn’t sure if I could ever go without it again. I needed the company, I needed someone to share moments like this with, to share the load of stress that came with this life.
The next three days went by without any incidents, we talked and smiled with each other, talking about our old life as we waited for her ankle to heal, because whilst I could help move the bone and reduce swelling it was up to her body to do the rest.
When the third day came and she told me she was feeling much better a feeling of dread followed me, reminding me that this would all have to end. That once we left this farm house everything could change. Either of us could die and leave the other alone.
I wanted it to stay like this, and deep down I believe that Miya did as well, though as the third day began to close into night we agreed that we would have to leave sooner or later.
The farmhouse wasn’t a permanent solution. Nothing was in this new world.
I forced the folds of sleep to leave me slowly, the comfortable spot next to the fire too inviting to leave, the last embers of wood keeping me warm. I could feel the weight of Miya’s arm across my stomach as I shifted slightly, my eyes flickering a few times before completely focusing. I was glad that we had become close over the last few days, it was refreshing to have someone to talk, laugh and eat with. I roll over slowly, careful not to wake her as I go to get some more wood for the fire, a soft smile tugging at the corners of my lips.
It’s strange to think that I nearly didn’t want to save her, that I had thought about leaving her to the hounds, when no I couldn’t imagine the days here without her. She was a brightness I had never expected nor realised I wanted. She had talked about finding other survivors and bringing them here, making this place a home for those who need it, of course we wouldn’t bring anyone, they’d have to be somewhat trust worthy.
I guess she wants to build some type of community, something about safety in numbers, I don’t really understand it, but I was considering it for her, if it would make her happy how could I say no? I didn’t want to upset her, besides; if this is what company felt like, what hurt could it do to have a few more people with us? We have enough food and clothes for a small army.
My mind wonders over all the possibilities as I stoke the fire and begin the task of making breakfast, deciding on beans and some pasta. Not exactly exotic or fancy, but It would give us the energy that we need for the day ahead, if we were going looking for people, this would help.
I didn’t know if I would have to use my abilities or not, it all depends on if we encountered the hounds, or people that were less than friendly. Either way, I had to be ready to protect us. I had to make sure that we stayed alive.
Miya stirred, yawning before peeling open her eyes and smiling up at me. “Morning.” She sang.
I smiled back, my voice light and carefree. “Morning, hope you like beans and pasta.”
“Breakfast in bed?” She chuckled, “you spoil me Elora.”