At End's Gate

HEALING WOUNDS

The atmosphere now seemed to be becoming more lighter after the sentimental goodbye. The six of them felt an element of unity. They found comfort in each other. After a very long time they felt hope. James and Blake were now discussing strategy. Lisa and Alexis did their separate watch times together just as the Sanders' boys did. Paige was brushing her hair. She had just taken a shower. Her parents made a very ideal panic room. It had a toilet, bathroom, toiletries, clothing supplies and food that would last a couple of weeks. The only setback was that there was no bed so they had to sleep on the floor. Her parents had piled up many blankets and a small electric heater to bare the cold. They installed an air conditioner as well. This was really commendable but Paige couldn't ignore the fact that her parents built this room as if they knew what was to come. This made her nervous. What was the involvement of her parents that attributed to this mess? She noticed Conner sit next to her." Don't worry. I'm fine," she said before Conner could say a word.

He grinned." It's not that. I just wanted to keep you company."

"Okay," she said looking up to the ceiling.

"What are you thinking of?" Conner asked as he raked his hair back.

"Nothing really. I just miss the stars and Sun," she said with a smile.

"Yeah we've been here for quite some time. Oh! What you did a few hours ago was really helpful."

"No problem. We needed to do that." She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and the way she did exhibited a lot of nervousness." Ummm how are you anyway? I mean you have been a shoulder to cry on to all of us but we barely ask you how you're holding up," she said with a nervous grin.

"I'm holding up okay. I'm not quite there yet but I guess the wounds are healing thanks to you." Paige's cheeks gave of a deep shade of pink. Conner stared at her and began to laugh." You're probably the only girl I've met who blushes at every nice comment a guy gives you."

Paige slapped his arm and laughed." I'm not like that. I'm a naturally shy person."

Conner smiled." No you're not. I know your type."

"Oh! What is it then?"

"You're the kind of girl who doesn't like people to think of her as a vulnerable human being so she portrays this tough girl image." He looked into her brown eyes," but she's just a human being who doesn't need to armour herself to exhibit fearlessness because even though she doesn't know it she's really brave."

Paige was overwhelmed by what he had said." Thank you. I don't really take myself to be brave..."

"But you are," he confirmed with a smile.

She smiled." Okay let's not make this all about me. I asked you how you're holding up," she chuckled. Conner looked at her as if he was admiring her laugh. Paige ignored that. She had convinced herself to make boundaries in her friendship with Conner to not defile her relationship with Erin." Go on pal. It's your time to talk in Paige's rehab hour."

"Dude I'm not going insane. For your own information.." he stopped as he leaned toward her ear." I think I'm the most sane here." He laughed." I told you I'm fine. I'm actually glad that we're together.." he scratched his head," the six of us. I don't think I would survive this alone."

"Ah, you actually care," she said teasing.

"I don't know why but even when I'm on the edge you manage to pull me back to sanity." He paused looking at Paige with an embarrassed grin." I mean the thought of you guys saves me from giving up," he said hesitantly.

Paige smiled." You told me once that if I needed a friend I can come to you. When you ever need a therapist you can come to me." They both laughed.

"I'll definitely come." They laughed again.

"I think it's almost time for my shift," Paige said as she stood up.

"I'll take your shift with you," Conner offered.

"Shouldn't you be resting. You have the hardest shift, most of the night," Paige implored.

"Don't worry. I'll be fine."

"Okay fine."

They dismissed the girls and began their shift.

I hope you enjoyed. Feel free to comment and ask any questions. You can actually send me your views, things you like or dislike about the plot as well as the character dialogue. I really appreciate constructive criticism.