The Girl Trilogy *Zach Mitchell*

Vol 2 Ch 1

Under the unforgiving rays of the relentless sun, a lightly tanned hand moved with a soft caress, gently sweeping away the beads of sweat that had gathered on the young woman's forehead. The oppressive heat bore down upon them, adding to the weight of their purpose. Shielding her eyes from the sun's fierce onslaught, she surveyed the sprawling terrain below, her gaze taking in the multitude of trees, plants, and the vibrant tapestry of wildlife that enveloped her like an ancient, living tapestry.

"I never thought I'd come back here," her grandfather's voice trailed off, punctuating the moment with a touch of nostalgia that tugged at their hearts, a pause that allowed her to turn her head slightly in his direction.

"Thanks for coming, Papa. It means a lot to me," she expressed, her voice carrying a blend of gratitude and determination, as if her words were an offering to the universe itself.

"My pleasure, Petal. I know how much those animals mean to you," he responded, a tender smile gracing his weathered face. With calloused hands, he gently combed through her long, sun-kissed blonde hair, his touch radiating a deep sense of familial affection. Each strand of hair seemed to whisper stories of love and understanding.

"So, what's the plan?"

"No more cages," his granddaughter's response was both firm and resolute, her words conveying a vision that made Ian uneasy. Her determination was like a tempest, wild and fierce.

"We can't have them roaming free either," he cautioned, his tone laced with concern, as if he were holding tightly to a lifeline. "If you intend to move the dinosaurs here, they need to be kept somewhere controlled, not just let loose."

"To an extent, I'm letting nature take its course," Ayana explained, her gaze fixed forward, her determination unwavering. Her eyes seemed to reflect the boundless spirit of the wilderness before her. "And don't worry, I won't let them hurt anyone. But I stand by my decision; they will be able to roam the island without being confined to a pen."

Her grandfather heaved a soft sigh, his fingers tracing along the contours of his jaw, the weight of her choice pressing heavily upon him. The lines on his face seemed to deepen, etching the story of his worry.

"You've always been stubborn, Petal."

"What's new?" she chuckled, turning around to sit on the grass, her legs crossed in front of her. As she did so, the necklace she wore glinted brilliantly in the sun's light. Ian couldn't help but notice the pale yellow stone on the chain, which held her father's wedding band. It was a testament to her resilience, a silent promise.

"Are you sure about this?" he inquired softly, lowering himself onto the ground beside her.

"Yes," she assured him, her attention now focused on the island's lush foliage. A smile graced her lips as her eyes landed on a young Brachiosaurus trying to keep pace with a herd of Compsognathus. The sight seemed to breathe life into her very being. "The island offers diverse environments. It will give the animals room to roam freely."

"I still don't like it," he confessed quietly, as if his words were a plea to the heavens.

Ayana shot her grandfather a knowing smile. "But you said yourself that you trust me."

He sighed, his hand gently resting on her arm, squeezing it briefly. "Just be careful," Ian implored, his piercing gaze locking onto her pewter gray eyes. His eyes held the weight of years of wisdom and experience, and now, the worry of a loving grandfather.

"People died, and there wasn't anything I could do about it," she shrugged, the weight of her past resting heavily on her shoulders. "Besides, it's been three years. I think I've dealt with it enough."

"But..." Ian began, his concern palpable.

"No buts," Ayana cut him off. "If it weren't for the volcano, I would leave them be on Isla Nublar. I don't have that luxury. Isla Sorna is our best option. We both know that. So please, just trust me."

Ian nodded slowly, exhaling a deep breath. "Alright, I will." He placed his hand on top of hers. "And if you change your mind about this... about moving them there, then I will stand with you. You have my word."

"Thanks, Papa, but I won't change my mind," she smiled at him gratefully, her smile like a beacon of determination. "This is what needs to happen."

They shared a quiet moment, the weight of their shared understanding hanging in the air, like a promise etched in the firmament. Their conversation was interrupted by a familiar voice calling her name from behind.

"Ayana! Where are you?" a male voice called, approaching them at a brisk pace.

Both Ayana and Ian turned to see one of her summer interns approaching, running towards them. "Sorry I'm late!" he exclaimed, slowing down as he got closer. "I was checking how the Mosasaur is adjusting to its new home."

Ayana's face lit up with a grin as she stood up and walked over to him. "Did you notice anything else that needed my attention?"

"Not really. She seems happy and content in her new environment. Everything looks great. Are you ready to go?"

Ayana nodded. "Let's get this over with."

She turned around, motioning for her grandfather to follow her, and they began making their way back toward the new facility, a journey that would undoubtedly shape the future of the dinosaurs and those involved. With each step, they carried the weight of their choices and the hopes of a world that watched, their emotions and resolve intertwined in the dance of life and legacy.