Daughter of Apollo

Chapter 12

Sierra

Sierra was dreaming.

Apollo was hugging a young woman.

I wish i could stay, Evelyn. Hearing her father's words, she realized that he was saying goodbye to her mother.

Apollo lowered his head. Sierra's mother gently lifted it with her hand. It's ok, my love. I understand. I truly do. Our daughter will, too.

They're talking about me! Sierra realized.

I hope so. Apollo said. He kissed her, then evaporated. Sierra's mother wiped away a tear.

The vision shifted.

Mom! A 12-year-old Sierra whimpered. I had the worst nightmare!

Don't let it bother you, dear. Her mother said. Nightmares are just dark manifestations of our imagination.

Her mother had comforted her until she calmed down.

I love you, Mom. Younger Sierra hugged her. You'll be with me, always, right? Forever?

As long as my forever lasts, Sierra. Her mother promised.

The vision changed again.

Her mother sounded urgent. Come on, Sierra. Pack your things.

What's the rush? 12 year old Sierra asked, puzzled. It's only summer camp.

You don't understand, Sierra. Worry shined in her eyes. You're in danger.

How-

I'm sorry, i can't explain it. We have to get you out of here.

Younger Sierra hadn't argued.

The vision changed a last time.

Young Sierra and her mother were in a car.

Mom, please tell me what's going on. Younger Sierra begged.

I can't, it's found us! Her mother exclaimed.

A smash sounded from the back of the car, and Sierra and her mom were jerked forward.

Sierra was still conscious in her nightmare. No, no, no, no! Please! I don't want to see it again! But she couldn't stop it. She couldn't wake up.

The car fell into a river. Water flooded into the car. Young Sierra struggled to open the car door, while her mother was unconscious. Young Sierra jammed the door open, then swam up. Once she got to the surface, she made for shore.

Sierra got to the banks of the river. She could see the remains of the car sinking.

Mom! No!

Sierra was jerked awake.