The Hidden Sun

Chapter VI

When I opened my eyes the next morning, all I saw was the bright red of my blanket. It was a startling difference to the deep green that I had seen in my dreams. I couldn't remember anything else but the deep emerald that flashed every time I blinked. I knew it wasn't my normal nightmare- this new dream seemed happier. Like a new spring green instead of the usual murky forest. It was the first time in months I hadn't had the same old nightmare.

Renewed, I quickly jumped off of the bed and cringed when all of my school books crashed to the ground. I had fallen asleep while getting ahead on my homework. Ignoring the stiffness in my neck, I bent over to collect the fallen papers- being careful not to glance under the bed.

I noticed it was still dark out and decided to take another run. After all, I did have a meet coming up. After changing into shorts and a t-shirt, I laced up my shoes and was out the door.

I chose to run in the same park as yesterday to watch the sun rise over the lake- it was always a beautiful sight. Part of me hoped Chris would be running again too, but I tried to ignore that feeling.

I ran towards my favorite part of the park as the first tendrils of light shot over the trees. It was a race against light. I wanted to make it there first so I could fully enjoy the view.

As I ran, I thought about nothing but the air I was breathing and the pavement under my feet. I was no longer aware of my immediate surroundings, but in a way I could still feel them. Like a sixth sense. That's why I wasn't startled when someone started running besides me. I didn't even look up, I was focused on getting to my bench as if it were a race for my life.

He didn't interrupt me either. I knew it was Chris because of the blue Nike shoes on his feet. I could see them just out the corner of my eye. It was like he understood not to disturb me, so we ran silently. I was leading him, and he followed without question.

The light was a little brighter now, and I was aware that I was losing time, but the bench was just around the corner. My feet were pounding on the concrete and my lungs were taking in deep breaths of air. I knew it would be worth it.

My feet picked up the pace and Chris effortlessly followed. I could see the bench with its huge tree hanging over it. That place was like magic to me. I had instantly fallen in love with it and loved the energy it gave off.

We were only a few yards from it now. I let myself slow down and slowly come to a stop when we finally reached it. I didn't even look at Chris before turning my attention to the sky. He got the hint and did the same. Everything was silent except for the sound of our breaths mingling in the chilly air.

I smiled as the sun finally made an appearance. I felt bright and happy with no worries. I loved the feeling, even if it only lasted a minute. I watched as the purple and pink turned into red and orange. A beautiful painting that quickly morphed into something new.

"There's going to be a storm soon," I finally said, never taking my eyes off of the sight.

Chris, who had been silent this whole time, nodded. "Red in morning, sailor's warning; red at night, sailor's delight."

I turned my attention to him and was surprised to see that he was already looking at me.

"How'd you know?" I asked.

He had the guts to laugh at me. "It's a popular saying," he teased.

I pouted and turned towards the sky again.

"Whatever," I mumbled.

He just nudged me and chuckled to himself.

"If I didn't know any better, I would say that you are stalking me, Jennings."

I snorted and shook my head slowly. "If I recall correctly, you followed me," I replied.

"So, is this going to become a regular thing?" He asked after a while. I thought for a moment, not really sure how to answer. Finally I did.

"I'm not sure," I hesitated. "Is it allowed to be? I am a student after all."

He also hesitated; clearly thinking about his answer.

"I don't see why not. It's like extra training." He paused again. "I don't really care either way. I'm lonely. So far you're my only friend."

"I know what that's like," I replied honestly. "I've moved around my whole life. I was never the social type, so I've mostly been on my own. You're my only friend other than Jessie."

"Why do you move around so much?"

I let out a tiny snort, honestly surprised that he was so blunt.

"That's it?" I asked sarcastically. "No sympathy."

I was so used to people feeling sorry for me. Sure I moved around a lot, but it wasn't bad. Besides, I had Jessie.

"I don't know," I finally answered when he didn't reply. "It's just how it's always been."

I could feel the tips of my ears turn red at my lie. If he had asked me two weeks ago, I wouldn't be lying. Now I knew it was because of my heritage.

"I've always stayed in one spot. This is the first time moving for me. I had no idea it would be so lonely," he said.

"You get used to it after awhile. Where did you move from?"

"Up north," he answered eventually. "Very small town. Smaller than here."

"Wow," I replied. "I didn't think that was possible."

He laughed. "Yup. I miss it though."

"What made you decide to move here?" I asked.

"This is only temporary," he replied. "It's really complicated actually."

"Fight with the parents?" I asked.

"Yeah, something like that," he trailed.

I could tell it was something more than that, but he obviously didn't want to talk about it.

The sun was fully up now and shining brightly on us. I inhaled deeply and closed my eyes. I loved soaking in the sun.

"I love the sight of the sun shining through the branches. It's like magic," I said suddenly. "It's part of the reason why I love this place so much."

With my eyes still closed, I heard Chris take in a breath too. "How did you find it?" he asked. "It's so beautiful."

I chuckled. "I know. I just got lucky, I guess. I was running one morning and stumbled across it. I fell in love instantly." I paused and turned towards him. "I haven't told anyone else about it. Not even Jessie."

"It's beautiful. Beautiful and forgotten."

"I know," I smiled. "That's what makes it perfect."