Never Let Go

Chapter 17: A Little Crush

The night sky is a welcome sight. The stars light the sky like snowflakes in the night. They are shining so bright, like sugar spilt over black marble.

I smile to myself when I see two, big, twinkling stars, side by side. Their brightness stands out the most. Look how they shine for you...

Memories rush through my mind, but tonight I don't feel too sad because you feel close.

"Daddy!"

Scarlett runs over to me and her small hand takes hold of my hand.

"Come play with me and Michael in the treehouse." She shows a big, cute smile and pulls me along.

"Ok." I smile, following her off the porch.

Michael jumps off the swing when he sees Scarlett pulling me towards the treehouse.

"Michael, I bet I can get to the treehouse first!" Scarlett grins.

"No you can't." He makes a face.

"I'll race ya!" She let's go of my hand and runs for the tree.

"Hey! You cheat!" Michael moans. "Daddy, Scarlett cheated! I wasn't ready!"

"Ha! I told you I'd get there first!" Scarlett shouts as she climbs the ladder.

"Because you cheated! That's not fair." Michael pouts as he climbs after her.

I laugh and shake my head at their bickering. I gaze up at the stars once more before following them into the treehouse.

****

The patients walk into the cafeteria for their breakfast. I keep glancing up, waiting to see Maya while I help in the kitchen.

She walks in slowly, and looks around the room before she spots me, and her green eyes lock on to mine. She immediately shows that rare beautiful smile of hers, and I smile back.

I help the nurses with the medication and go around the patients, leaving Maya until last.

"Good morning." I smile and place down her medication.

She turns her head, gazing up at me. I've never seen her smile this much before.

"Good morning." She replies softly.

"Are you ok?"

"I'm ok." She nods. "How are you?"

"I'm ok."

She doesn't look at me for too long, and turns her head, taking a sip of water. I leave her to finish her breakfast and help clean up in the kitchen.

****

I make my way through the building, heading for the common room to prepare it for the day ahead. I hear a door open behind me and Dr. Kay call my name.

"Michael."

I stop and turn around, seeing her walk up the hall towards me, holding some paperwork in her hand.

"Morning." I smile.

"Good morning. How are you doing?" She smiles.

"I'm good, thank you." I nod. "How are you?"

"I'm ok. Are you heading to the common room?"

"Yeah."

"I'm heading that way too."