Thumbs

Understanding

“This way! We are almost there!” Katie exclaimed and ran ahead in the direction of the truck.

The fading glow of the setting sun made the world look blue and mystical. When she saw the truck in this blue light, her heart fluttered at its magnificence, which was something she never thought would occur to her when she first saw the run down tin can. Jason was falling behind, but Katie did not care. She needed to see Maurice.

“Maurice? Maurice?” Katie called happily as she ran to the truck and ducked underneath its belly.

She poked her head in through the dark hole and squinted. Nothing could be seen clearly since there was no fire lit, but there were a few beams of light that managed to creep into the hollow room and reveal a slouching silhouette.

“Maurice? I brought medicine! You’re going to be okay!” Katie said as she climbed into the truck.

She paused for a moment once she was inside, waiting for Maurice to show himself. But there was no movement inside the truck. Katie gripped the edge of her shirt as she nervously walked towards the dimly outlined figure that was pressed in the furthest corner of the truck. The mound suddenly moved, making Katie stop in her tracks.

“Maurice?” Katie whispered.

The dark figure seemed to react to her voice, as it released a hollow groan. Katie squinted again at the slowly moving mass and took a step back when it moved closer. Gradually, the slouching figure came into the dim light, showing a pale bald head and a messy brown bandana.

“Maurice!” Katie exclaimed and lunged for him.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and squeezed, making Maurice choke a bit. However he also let out a relieved chuckle and returned the hug after he regained his breath. Katie nuzzled her cold nose into the warm collar of his shirt, which was under the thick blanket that she had laid on him when she left. She pulled away and looked at his tired face.

“I’m so sorry I left. I didn’t mean to leave without saying goodbye. You were sleeping.” She muttered.

Maurice only stared back at her and sighed. Katie smiled and took that as his forgiveness.

“Oh, I almost forgot! Maurice I brought-” Katie began, but was interrupted by Maurices eyes snapping to the entrance to the truck at the same moment Jason came inside with his blazing flashlight. Maurice attempted to stand but his gimp leg couldn't support his weight. Katie pushed on his chest and shook her head as Jason made his way into the truck.

Jason stood and dusted himself off before shining his light right at Maurice. Jasons eyes widened and his mouth dropped.

“Oh my God.” He gasped.

Maurice glared intensely at Jason and once again attempted to stand, this time while only balancing on one leg. Standing at his full height, Katie realized just how short Jason really was. The man seemed to be only capable of gawking at Maurice with his flashlight, rather than explain himself like Katie was hoping. Katie stood in front of Maurice and nodded towards Jason.

“I brought Jason to help. He has medicine that can fix your leg.” She explained to Maurice, who didn't break eye contact with the intruder for even a second. Katie noticed that Maurices face was dotted with sweat and his eye sockets were dark and hollow, making him appear ill. However, he still looked as fierce as ever.

“That. . . is Maurice?” Jason asked, also not breaking eye contact with the giant that stood before him.

“Yep. And he needs your help.” She said.

Maurice brought his glare to Katie now, only his expression also screamed; are you kidding me? Katie sighed and walked over to Jason and tugged on his backpack.