A Little Blue Goes A Long Way (Ft. Joseph & Sarah Rogers!)

Chapter 8 (Final?)

"You didn't know the brush could do what?" you asked, trying to make sense of Steve's words.

Steve's expression was a mix of frustration and resignation. "The brush has... properties. Magic, I guess you could call it. When I used it to paint the portrait of my parents, it brought them back."

Your eyes widened. "You mean... that's why Sarah and Joseph are here?"

Steve nodded. "I didn't know it would actually work. I just wanted to see them again."

The old lady chuckled softly. "It seems my little gift has caused quite a stir. I didn't mean for it to bring trouble, but sometimes, magic has a mind of its own."

You turned to her, feeling a mix of gratitude and confusion. "Can you help us? Is there a way to... I don't know, manage this?"

The old lady's eyes twinkled. "Magic is a tricky thing. But I can offer some guidance. The brush binds them here, but their presence may cause disruptions. You'll need to paint them back into the world they came from, but it won't be easy."

Steve looked troubled. "You mean I have to paint them again? And this time, send them away?"

The old lady nodded. "It's the only way to set things right. But be careful, Steve. Your emotions will influence the outcome."

Steve sighed, rubbing his forehead. "This is... a lot to take in."

You squeezed his hand, offering silent support. "We'll figure it out, Steve. Together."

Back at home, you and Steve explained everything to Sarah and Joseph. They took it surprisingly well, considering the circumstances.

"Magic paintbrush, huh?" Joseph said, puffing on his cigar. "Figures our boy would get mixed up in something like that."

Sarah smiled gently. "It's alright, Steve. We understand. We've had our time, and we're grateful for this chance to see you again."

Steve's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I'm so sorry, Mom. Dad. I never meant to cause this trouble."

Sarah cupped his cheek. "You've always had a big heart, Steve. We're proud of you."

With a heavy heart, Steve set up his easel and prepared to paint. You stayed by his side, offering words of encouragement.

As he painted, you could see the emotions swirling in every brushstroke. The love, the pain, the longing. It was a masterpiece of both skill and heart.

When he finished, Sarah and Joseph stood before the painting, looking at it with a mix of sadness and acceptance.

"It's time," Sarah said softly, giving Steve one last hug. "We love you, son. Always."

Joseph gave a gruff nod, but his eyes were wet. "Take care, kid."

With a final stroke, they were gone, their images forever captured on the canvas.

Steve collapsed into your arms, tears streaming down his face. "I just wanted to see them again..."

You held him tightly, your own tears mingling with his. "You did, Steve. And they'll always be with you. In your heart."

As the days passed, life slowly returned to normal. But the painting of Sarah and Joseph hung in a place of honor in your home, a reminder of the love that transcended time and magic.

And the old lady? She was never seen again. But the paintbrush remained, a symbol of the strange and wondrous journey you'd all been on.

Together, you and Steve faced the future with hope, knowing that love and family were the true magic that bound you all.

I hope you all enjoyed this book as much as I do.

An angsty end but I'm up for any feedbacks if anyone's up for a continuation. :)