Violent Heart

Chapter Four

        Violet brushed through the golden curls with her fingers, loosening all the knots she came across. Cat remained silent, not complaining once throughout the arduous process. Once satisfied, Violet twisted the locks round each other into a knot, tucking in the loose strands; they had to make do without any pins.

        “There, it looks lovely on you.”

        Cat turned to her, a small smile on her face. “Thank you.”

        “You’re welcome sweetheart, think you can do the same?” The child nodded enthusiastically, getting up to stand behind Violet. She felt Cat’s small hands gently tug at her own hair, combing through it thoroughly.

        “So… you never did tell me what sort of magic you posses.”

        “Umm…well I dunno, I didn’t even know I had magic in me…mama and papa aren’t gifted…But, I do remember hearing my cousin talking about how granny might have been a seer. I never did believe them though...” Violet’s hair was carefully twisted, before being tied into a bun as well.

        “We’ll figure it out once those chains are off of you.”

        “Mmhmm.” Cat gave Violet’s hair a final tug, before settling down beside her.

        They stayed silent for a while, watching as Arthur stretched his muscles, preparing himself for what was to come. The bright moon shone through the bars, illuminating their little compartment in long strips of light.

        “Do you think the plan will work? I mean, aren’t you frightened?” Cat blurted out, turning to the young women, panic in her eyes.

        Violet hesitated, thinking about how young her companion was; she had to get her to safety. “Of course I’m frightened… I’m terrified, but I know that this is for the best. As for our plan… it very much depends on luck, so lets try our hardest, alright?”

        Arthur interrupted them, “It’s time,” he whispered scurrying to the back of the wagon, where they sat.

        Footsteps sounded from beside the wagon, Violet held her breath as the duo appeared behind the bars; they looked more intimidating than usual. The moon’s light blared behind them, leaving their shadowy features indistinguishable to Violet. The image reminded her of how little she knew about these sinister men, bringing her to wonder if she really was making a mistake.

        Silver keys jingled in Jack’s hand as he motioned for them to turn around. “Come on lad, an’ be quick about it.” The door creaked open as Arthur shuffled backwards, “yeah, yeah.” The boy muttered under his breath.

        Violet turned to Cat as soon as they disappeared off with him, “Catherine.” The young girl looked to her questioningly, lips red from being bitten. “I know we’ve discussed this, but when you start, don’t stop running… not for anything… and only move to the woods when you’re far enough, but even then don’t you stop, not till you can’t run anymore. Do you understand?” Cat nodded, wringing her hands together. Violet offered her a soft smile, “Be brave Cat…I know you can do it.” Violet had to make sure that at least one of them got to safety, she’d figure out the rest depending on how everything turned out tonight.

        They waited in silence for Arthur’s return, leading Violet to wonder how her uncle was doing; she had told him that she’d be back by the afternoon of yesterday. Violet couldn’t imagine what he might be going through right now, and wished more that anything to be in his safe, loving embrace, away from this nightmare of a situation.