Tides of Fortune

Other Guardians Can

"You're not destroyed," Zoe said.

"Liar." Sam folded his arms. Other guardian angels could fly, but his wings broke when he fell the week before, and he could not watch over the family anymore. His assignment felt ruined, like the sandcastles battered by waves.

Zoe guided the boy to the beach, where the ocean crashed into wet sand. Sea foam and water crashed into their legs, and her wings expanded.

Most of the surrounding humans didn't notice them as they swam, picked up shells, or picnicked. Scents of fresh bread, hummus, and hard cheese mixed with the salty aroma of the sea.

Sam breathed in the scents. His mouth collapsed into a frown when he turned to look at his twisted wings.

A toddler digging in the sand with a red shovel stopped, and she waved at them. Her red curls bounced.

Zoe waved back.

"It'll be okay," the child said, with words too old for her.

"Tina remembers the life before, but she'll soon forget. I promise you that I'll help you like I helped her." The beautiful old woman hugged Sam. Her dark eyes sparkled as light reflected in them. Her long raven hair fell on Sam's neck. "You'll be better than fine."

Sam sobbed. "There is no way I can come back from this." Sam touched his translucent feathers and his twisted wing. "Can't God just heal me?"

"Not now, but I promise you have a purpose if you choose to. Humans misunderstand and don't realize that every single one of them is chosen. Every life is special." Zoe pointed at a couple as they made their way to the beach. The young couple spread out a blanket.

The woman touched her belly. "He's not kicking yet, and I'm worried."

Sam pointed to them. "How can I help them?"

"By being born into this world as a human, your body will be slightly broken, but you'll be glorious. This is your chance. Do you know how many angels wanted this miracle? And while you won't remember me, you'll be cherished. You can do as much as a son."