Stars On The Atlantic

XV

It was shortly after sunset that the R.M.S. Lusitania sailed past the Statue of Liberty. Snow was falling flake upon flake unto the city of New York, on this 25th of December 1910. Jerry and Amybeth stood on deck, holding hands, as the lights of the metropolis came into sight.

"Merry Christmas!" Amybeth shouted. During the whole day, her radiant smiled never dimmed a single instant. The Celtic cross around her neck reflected magnificently the Christmas light in the streets of New York.

The Lusitania soon came to a stop and boarding bridges were extended from the port to the ship. The boy turned toward the girl and pressed her hands on his heart.

"I can only accompany you this far. The rest of the journey, you'll have to walk it by yourself. Don't be afraid, and keep smiling. I am sure that just like your smile, the path ahead of you will become brighter with each passing day."

"Thank you, Jerry, I will be looking at the stars more often from now on. And I know I will always carry you in my heart, no matter where you are."

They shared a final kiss, and Amybeth soon disappeared in the crowd on the quay. Onboard the Lusitania, Jerry stared for a long time at the spot where she disappeared. Having lost his job on the ship, this was to be the last time he came to America. From now on, he would forever remember that there was once a girl named Amybeth McAuley who stormed into his life unexpectedly, revived his dreams, and opened his heart to love.

At this time, a cry came behind him: "Oi, boy!"

Jerry turned around abruptly and froze in terror as he saw the boiler room chief walking towards him.

"You're officially fired," croaked the latter, handing a bag of money to him. "Here's your pay for the past two weeks of service."

Jerry took over the incredibly heavy bag, opened it and much to his astonishment, found inside the equivalent of more than half a year of salary.

"Sir, there must be a mistake," he mumbled.

"Surely you'll need some money while staying in America, won't you?"

"I don't understand, sir."

"I might be a prick with a brutal temperament, but I know what love is. She's out there waiting for you, go and find her," said the chief with a wink. "Well, what are you waiting for? Go on!"

Without further hesitation, Jerry turned around, rushed down the bridge to the quay and into the crowd. His heart couldn't contain all the joy he felt. Surely, Christmas was the season of miracles, he thought in awe. Though no stars could be visible because of the city lights, he knew with conviction that he wasn't alone anymore. Where there was love, there was hope.And where there was hope, there was also happiness.