Fallen: A Divine Mystery

Chapter 26. A Call

One week later

The sun shone brightly in the clear blue skies. Ann walked onto the verandah, balancing a tray filled with steaming tea cups and freshly baked cookies. At the threshold, she stumbled, causing her to almost drop everything.

"Careful!" Theo jumped from his chair, offering a hand to support her.

Together, Ann and Theo placed the food on the table. Their new friends Charlie and Marci smiled at them, their eyes gleaming with anticipation.

It was heartwarming to see them all together. Ann recently discovered that Charlie and Marci had started dating. Their connection seemed to have formed after the tragedy with the theater building. Marci was impressed by Charlie's willingness to help, and she had a soft spot for brave individuals. Likewise, Charlie admired Marci's efforts in rescuing people from under the rubble.

Ann was excited about their newfound friendship and her new life in Middle Lake.

Theo took a bite of the cookie and gave Ann a surprised look. "How did you make them taste like that?"

She smiled. "I had some time in that hut, so I asked Kyle if he knew your grandma's recipe. He ended up giving me a culinary book that belonged to his wife, so I found and recreated it."

"They are really good," Marci confirmed, chewing. "And where do you find the time for cooking?"

Ann shrugged. "I just make time for the things I enjoy."

Charlie nodded in understanding. "Cooking is just another form of art."

"Exactly," Ann agreed.

Marci sipped her tea, her gaze wandering around the surroundings. Like any curious woman, she observed all the exterior details attentively, visibly intrigued by Ann's life. But the most captivating moment came when her eyes finally landed on Rei. The dragon had found his leisure hours and was now relaxing in the backyard, basking in the shade of the oak tree.

Marci's eyes lit up as she stared at Rei. "Aren't you afraid the dragon might set the house on fire?"

Theo scoffed at such an absurd suggestion. "He won't. Dragons are much smarter than humans."

"Even smarter than you?" Marci teased.

Theo gave her a sharp look, clearly annoyed.

"Guys, please. Can you just relax and enjoy the day?" Ann urged, hoping to diffuse the situation.

"Of course we can," Theo said. "If Marci wants, we can even ride Rei together."

Marci's eyes sparkled with excitement. "For real?!"

Theo confirmed with a nod. "Why not? Besides, Rei needs to fly regularly to stay in shape. We can head to the mountains after dinner."

Charlie interjected, placing his hand on Marci's. "I can't leave you two alone."

"Why not?" Ann gave Charlie a playful look. "Jealous?"

"Not really. I'm more concerned that these two might end up killing each other."

Theo chimed in, offering a solution. "Then come with us. Rei can handle three people with no problem."

Charlie's gaze shifted to Ann. "I don't know. Is it okay to leave you alone?"

"I'll be glad to have the evening to myself. Don't worry about me."

Charlie still seemed hesitant. "But I'm not sure about flying... it's too high!"