(Our Realm)
Alethia strolled along the sidewalk, a soft tune escaping her lips as she made her way to the park. Her brothers bickered behind her, but she paid them no mind. Galen persisted that one of them should inform Chris that she was alone, despite her promise to wait until they found a solution to the white dove problem. Yet, Alethia yearned for some solitude. Between school, her grandmother, and her training, she rarely had a moment to simply be herself. Today, she intended to do just that. She would sit under her cherished tree, immerse herself in one of her beloved books, and let go of all her worries.
Phrann interjected, urging Galen to leave Alethia in peace, assuring him that she wasn't truly alone. Should anyone disturb her, one of them would fetch Chris. Eventually, Galen fell silent, his eyes vigilant for any signs of trouble. They reached the park unscathed, and Alethia settled beneath her tree, opening her book. Leaning against the sturdy trunk, she inhaled deeply, relishing the tranquility that enveloped her. Laughter of children and the rhythmic pounding of joggers' footsteps filled the air. It was a moment of respite, a moment of peace.
With a gentle sweep of her hand, Alethia brushed her hair behind her ear and immersed herself in the pages of her book. The cool breeze caressed her skin, offering a much-needed reprieve. Galen perched on a branch above, keeping a watchful eye, while Phrann moved stealthily through the park, alert for any potential trouble. Alethia savored the serenity, losing herself in the words on the page. For once, she didn't have to worry about the impending apocalypse, visions, or white doves. She spent most of the day beneath the tree, reaching the final pages of her book as the sun began its descent.
"I suppose I should head home," she sighed softly, pushing herself up from the ground. Galen and Phrann materialized behind her, ready to accompany her on the journey back.
"I told you nothing would happen," Phrann remarked, a hint of satisfaction in his voice.
"Oh, hush. Is it a crime to be concerned about her?" Galen retorted.
They arrived home, swiftly locking the door behind them, just as the phone began to ring.
Alethia darted inside, answering the call. "Hello?"
"Alethia, I don't know what to do," Corie's voice trembled through the line. "Corie? Sweetheart, what's wrong?"
"It's... It's my parents. They... they're getting a divorce," Corie sobbed.
Alethia remained silent, allowing her friend to pour out her heart. After a moment, she shook her head, the weight of the situation sinking in. "Give me thirty minutes. I'll call Russell and ask him to drive me to your place."
"No, I don't want to ruin your evening," Corie protested.
"Nonsense. You shouldn't be alone right now. We can watch cheesy movies, devour popcorn, and you can yell and cry as much as you need to."
A faint chuckle escaped Corie's lips. "That would be nice."
"Then it's settled. I'll see you soon. And Corie, I promise you, everything will be alright." Alethia hung up the phone and dialed Russell, his voice groggy as he answered. Nevertheless, he agreed to pick her up and drive her to Corie's.
Leaving a note for her grandmother, informing her of her plans to spend the night at Corie's, Alethia swiftly packed a few essentials into a bag. She stepped outside, locking the door behind her, and within minutes, Russell's truck pulled up. A smile graced Alethia's face as she climbed into the passenger seat.
"Hey, handsome."
Russell returned her smile. "Thanks for giving me a reason to get out of bed. I'm happy to drive you to Corie's."
Alethia nodded, relaxing into the seat. She reached over, squeezing Russell's knee. "Once again, thank you. I truly appreciate this. Corie shouldn't be alone right now."
Russell's smile widened, his hand covering hers. "I'm glad I can be of help."
The truck roared to life, and they embarked on a twenty-minute drive to Corie's house. As Russell parked the truck, it became evident that neither of Corie's parents were home.
Alethia opened the passenger door, leaning in to plant a soft kiss on Russell's lips. "I'll see you at school on Monday. Thank you for the ride."
Russell nodded, returning her kiss. "Call me if you need anything. Go be with your friend."
Alethia grabbed her bag, slipping out of the truck and shutting the door behind her. She walked up the path to Corie's front door, turning to wave at Russell as he drove away. She then knocked on the door, patiently waiting for Corie to let her in.
The door swung open, revealing Corie with bloodshot eyes, evidence of her tears long before she reached out to Alethia for support. Quickly stepping inside, Alethia set her bag down and enveloped her best friend in a comforting embrace. Fresh tears dampened Alethia's shoulder as Corie released her emotions, and she rubbed her back, providing solace.
After a few minutes, Corie pulled away, wiping the tears from her cheeks. "I'm sorry. I'm a mess."
Alethia shook her head, closing the door she had left ajar. "You're allowed to be. Let's go sit down and relax. Can I get you something to drink?"
Having traversed these familiar grounds countless times before, Alethia possessed an innate knowledge of the kitchen's layout, effortlessly maneuvering her way through the space. Taking a seat, she allowed her friend, Alethia, to extend her helping hand in this time of need. Alethia deftly procured two glasses from the cupboard, filling them with water from the chilled jug in the fridge. Handing one to Corie, she returned the jug to its rightful place before settling beside her.
"After lunch, they summoned me, informing me that their decision had been made long ago. They merely waited for me to acclimate to high school before revealing the truth: their love for each other has diminished," Corie recounted, her voice quivering with emotion as she fought back tears. Seeking solace, she took a long sip of water.
Alethia gently rubbed Corie's arm, providing her with the comfort she needed. "Please, continue," she urged, her voice filled with empathy.
"I... I simply rose from my seat and left, retreating to the sanctuary of my room. I wept for what seemed like an eternity. I yearned to reach out to you, but I refrained, fearing that they might overhear our conversation, delving into the depths of our personal lives. Eventually, they departed, and I reached out to you. I am grateful that you came, Alethia. The prospect of enduring this night alone was unbearable."
A tender smile graced Alethia's lips. "Corie, you know that I will always be here for you, no matter the circumstances."
Corie, setting her glass down, reciprocated the smile. "I am aware, which is why I propose we engage in an activity to temporarily divert our thoughts from this turmoil, if only for one night."
A soft laugh escaped Alethia's lips. "Pray tell, what do you have in mind?"
"Pizza and horror movies," Corie suggested.
Rising from her seat, Alethia made her way to the telephone. "That sounds like a splendid plan to me. I shall place the order while you prepare the movie."
Throughout the night, they remained ensconced in a world of eerie tales and delectable indulgences. Engaging in lively conversation and playful banter, Corie and Alethia momentarily shed their burdens. For a brief respite, they were ordinary adolescents, engaging in the activities that defined their age.
