When the Flower Falls (Fitzmael 7) - COMPLETED

30: The Weight I Hide

YEARS AGO

"YOU SHOULD EAT FIRST," Mom said as she gently stroked my face.

"Hmm..." My eyes fluttered shut when I felt the warmth of her palm. I pressed my cheek harder against her hand, starving for her touch.

"I'll go out for a while, okay?"

I stared into her eyes. They were still the same. I couldn't even remember anymore what they looked like when she was happy. I had never seen her smile with her whole heart.

Most of the time, it was forced.

"Don't look for me, alright?" she reminded me, then wrapped her arms around me in a tight embrace.

My whole body felt lighter. That hug only lasted a few seconds, but it was enough to wipe away every sorrow I carried. I smiled brightly at her and nodded, not wanting her to think I was weak or that she still needed to take care of me.

"Okay," I said, unable to wipe the grin off my face.

When Mom left, I savored my food. It was probably the most delicious meal I'd ever tasted.

So... this is what happiness does? It makes everything feel perfect.

After that, I cleaned up and tidied her room.

I hope Mom feels happy when she comes home.

"Rain!" Ari called, poking his head through the window. "Let's play!"

I grinned widely. I was about to nod, but then I thought of Mom. "She's coming home. What if she arrives while I'm gone? What if she needs me?"

"Come on..." Ari pleaded. "Look!" he pointed. "It's raining! Let's play in the rain! Kyler's at the shore already."

"Alright. But just for a bit, okay?" I burst into laughter the moment I stepped outside and felt the rain on my skin.

Ari and I were both soaked as we made our way toward the shore. Then we both stopped abruptly when we saw Mom walking slowly toward the sea.

"T-Tita Reign?" Ari whispered. "Is that really her?"

I slowly walked toward her, wondering what she was doing. Did she want to swim? My eyes widened when she stepped into the deeper part of the ocean.

"Mom!" I yelled. "Mom! What are you doing?!"

The rain and waves were too strong. Maybe she couldn't hear me. I wanted to run after her, but Ari held me back.

"Rain, it's dangerous!" he warned. "Wait! I'll call my parents. Stay here! I'll find Kyler too," he added, voice thick with worry.

I looked back at the sea. Mom was gone. I kept screaming her name. Maybe she just dove underwater.

But several minutes passed, and I still couldn't see her. I knew it was dangerous, but I swam anyway. I did everything I could, yet I still couldn't find her.