Short Stories (ErrInk)

A Pair of Wings - Life Continues - (Finale)

Ink's POV

  I sketched on the couch while listening to the TV. I was trying to spark ideas in my mind as I couldn't think of anything to draw. Subconsciously, I fidgeted with the ring around my finger to help me focus.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Getting up from the couch, I went to the entrance.

After opening the door I saw my sons, Gradient and PaperJam.

Me: I wasn't expecting company.

PJ: We wanted it to be a surprise, mom.

I smiled as I let them into the house.

A few years after Error passed away, I adopted two kids and gave them the names that we created that night on the beach.

Just as my husband suspected, one of them was a trouble maker. I couldn't count how many times I was called to the school for Jammy causing problems.

They were both extremely smart but Jammy's sass didn't help either of them. Gray was very behaved and shy however he sometimes took the blame so his brother wouldn't get suspended.

I went into the kitchen to begin cooking dinner. If I had known they were coming I would've had it ready.

While I prepped food, I felt someone hug me from behind. I knew it was Gray as physical contact was his way of affection. He was taller than me which almost reminded me of the comforting hugs that Error gave.

Me: How's college going for you two? Not too stressful hopefully.

I said quietly.

Gray: It's not bad. Sometimes I have to make sure he doesn't burn the dorms down. He's still reckless.

He responded with a sigh. I slightly laughed.

Gray: Hey mom.

Me: Yes?

Gray: Can we go see dad today? We brought flowers for him.

  He asked, motioning towards my ring. I nodded, trying to hold back the sudden tears that threatened to roll down my cheeks. Talking about Error still made me burst out crying.

  Gray let go and joined PJ, who was helping around the kitchen.

  I thought to myself until a question came to me.

Me: Have you two ever thought about finding your actual parents?

  Jammy growled.

PJ: Hell no. If they didn't want us in the first place, why should we even fucking bother? Gray and I are having a perfect life without them.

Gray: I agree but without the harsh language. Control your mouth around mom.

  Gray said, elbowing his sibling.

PJ: Sorry. It's a habit.

  Once I was done, we sat done and ate together before leaving for the cemetery.

(Time Skip)

My sons and I sat on the grass next to Error's tombstone. This was one of our traditions when we were together. After eating dinner, we would bring snacks to the cemetery and spend some time there so Error wouldn't be alone.

Every time we were there, I always loved to believe that Error was sitting with us in the afterlife. We couldn't see him but I knew he was there, watching our children grow.

I thought to myself until I heard Gray's voice.

Gray: Is grandpa still trying to give you money?

Me: Yes. He refuses to believe that what I do isn't a real job. Even though I get paid a lot for my artwork. He wants me to go back to college so I can be a nurse or a doctor despite the fact I can't stay in a hospital without breaking down.

I responded without looking away from the flowers.

I heard Jammy scoff quietly under his breath. Both of my children have never liked my father however Jammy was more vocal about his distaste for him.

PJ: You shouldn't listen to him. You're a grown adult and a single parent. Don't let gramps control you.

We continued to talk until the sun began to set. Gray mentioned that they had homework to finish which led to us leaving. Jammy nagged, not being particularly happy about having to do work for school.

I stayed behind for second. Kneeling down, I placed my hand on the smooth tombstone.

Me: I'll be back soon. You won't be alone for long...

I love you, Error