Hearts Across the Divide

Peaceful Strangers

You woke up early, the early morning sunlight filtering in through a small window in your hut. You looked at your arm, the scratches from the cougar hardly visible anymore.

With a slight sense of relief, you knew that your mother would be less strict about your activities today, allowing you a bit more freedom within your allowed territory.

You slipped on the faded cream dress, the fabric soft and supple against your skin. It was a gift from your mother for your last birthday. You couldn't help but feel a pang of affection as you looked at the dress. Despite not always being understood by your family, you appreciated these simple gestures of love and care.

Your mother did try her best, considering the circumstances. Being an ape and raising a human child was a task that proved to be more difficult than she had initially imagined. Yet, she tried her hardest to understand your needs and interests.

She learned how to read and started collecting human relics, artifacts, and books, using them to teach you about humans and their history. Despite these efforts, your restless soul still yearned for something more, something she couldn't fully grasp or fulfill.

You had grown into a young woman now, but your spirit was not yet settled. You yearned for more than just the comforts of your village. The itch for adventure, the need to explore and experience the world, it was a constant, nagging feeling deep inside of you.

Despite your yearnings for freedom and exploration, strict regulations were placed upon you, especially by your father. His main priority was your safety. The rules and limitations placed upon you felt like a cage, restraining your spirit and keeping you from fully experiencing everything the world had to offer.

You began to pack your bag, excited for the day ahead. Though you couldn't venture into the overgrown city, you were determined to enjoy the day.

You packed your ukulele, knowing it would bring you solace, along with some fruit to keep your energy up. You chuckled as you tucked your knife into your bag, always ensuring that you had some way of protecting yourself, just in case. Lastly, you placed your current book into your bag, eager for the chance to dive into another world far from the reality of this one.

"Where do you... think you're going this early?"

You were just about to head out when you heard a voice from behind you. You turn to find your mother standing in the doorway of the hut, her hand on her hip, her eyes peering at you with a mixture of concern and annoyance. You never could sit still.

You approach your mother, leaning into her touch, allowing her to gently tuck a strand of hair behind your ear. You understood that she only wanted you to be safe, that her sternness and concern came from a place of love. And you knew that this simple act of physical contact was her way of showing that.

You reassure your mother, letting her know your plans. "I'm just going to the river's edge," you say, your hand shaking the ukulele. "Maybe sit on top of the rocks near the waterfall." Your mother pauses for a moment, her eyes meeting yours. For a moment, you see her concern, the worry for your safety etched into her expression. But then, she nods, her head brushing against yours in a tender kiss.

"Be careful," she whispers, her voice full of love and worry. You give your mother a cheeky grin as you leave the hut, your words filled with lighthearted confidence. "Me? I'm always careful," you tease, before disappearing into the early morning sunlight, heading towards the river's edge.

You arrive you are immediately embraced by the morning's sounds, every still quiet. The light morning chatter of the birds fills your ears, harmonizing with the rushing water. Something is soothing about this place, a sense of tranquility that seems to wash over you with every sound.