Child • Jøshler

epiløgue

The lianas lowered from their door-protecting position.

Patrick picked Pete up.

They all ran out the door.

Ryan led them.

They escaped the underground building.

...

They ran through the forest.

They ran through the fields.

They had nothing to be running away from.

This was a freedom run.

They were running happily.

...

Once near the cemetery, Ryan stopped.

Brendon was the first to notice, stopping in confusion. Once two people were standing, others stopped too.

"Let's talk" Ryan proposed, sitting down into nothing; a colorful bush of flowers fast grew out and formed into the shape of an armchair.

"Please, take a seat" Ryan offered, gesturing toward nothing.

Brendon was the first to do it, feeling safe with Ryan. Of course, he got to sit on a colorful bush as well. The exact same happened with the others.

But Patrick was still standing, holding Pete in his arms "H- He needs to go to the hospital"

"No, he doesn't" Ryan said quickly, he pointed at the grass "Lay him down"

Very hesitantly, Patrick did as told. Three bushes grew out underneath Pete, forming a soft bed.

"His leg" Patrick demanded, fearing all the blood that Pete lost. Pete was almost unconscious, too weak.

Ryan smiled at him, without a word. That irritated Patrick. He was going to argue, when

"He'll be okay" Andy said from behind Patrick. Andy was standing awkwardly, as if in pain. He had fear in his eyes and appeared to have been crying.

"Andy!" Patrick, Dallon and Josh ran to Andy to hug him. He giggled at them, accepting the hold.

"Are you okay?" Josh asked, placing his palm atop Andy's shoulder.

"I've been better" Andy shrugged. None of them really knew what it feels like being trapped in a box smaller than your own head; nor were they ever gonna find out. Josh hugged him another time and then Andy met eyes with Patrick's desperate ones. Patrick just needed Pete healthy and alive.

Andy understood and kneeled next to Pete. He placed both his hands over Pete's thigh. The blackest of blacks did its magic, wrapping around the boy's wounded thigh. Pete's natural skin tone returned to his face and he sighed in relief. Whatever Andy was doing to him was incredibly comfortable.