Divided

Sophy: A goodbye to the family.

Aki opened the door, releasing an auburn glow and warmth from inside the cabin. The scent of burning wood and coco flooded her senses. She was lured in by the warm aroma, though it hurt to enter. She knew once she left, she'd be gone forever. Her stomach dropped to the thought. She clenched her fist and walked in. Facing demons wasn't as scary, as what she was about to do.

Everyone was divided, most likely for Sophy's benefit. The Monacos, all except for Percy, were by the island in the kitchen, while Ray and Percy were standing by the fireplace. Sophy's mother leaned against the wall by the door.

Everyone was trying to hold a brave face, though only her mother's was convincing enough. Red's bottom lip quivered, ever so slightly. Sophy made eye contact with Persephone, and she wavered with emotion. She ran into Persephone's arms. Slight crying came from Persephone while Sophy tried to hold back tears. She wanted to be strong for them.

Sophy leaned back. Persephone's eyes were bloodshot. "You were the best sort of little sister I could have ever asked for." Her hands were shaky.

Sophy squeezed her hands. "You were the best big sister I sort of had." She exclaimed through shaky breaths." I remember when I hated you."

Persephone chuckled. "Yeah, me too. Memories huh? I love you Pinku." 

Sophy chocked back tears. "I love you too, sis..."

Red placed his hand on Sophy's shoulder. She turned to face him, greeted with a warm smile. "Sophy...Its hard, dealing with Soul damage. I have faith that you'll heal. You're stronger than a lot of people I've met, even if you don't realize it. You've been a great addition to our team and our family.  You were like another daughter to me." His voice got shaky. "Don't...don't forget us, please."

He started to cry, and Sophy hugged him tightly. "I could never forget you guys."

"Heh, I wish you Lucky, Legendary Pinku."

"And same to you Legendary Red."

He kissed her forehead, and as she stepped back, Valerie hugged her tightly.

Sophy felt like she was being squished to death. "Sophy, you were a blast around the house. You've grown into such a beautiful and strong young lady. We're all so very proud of you."

"Heh, thanks, Valerie."

"I'm going to miss you." 

"Me too. You were always there to help me keep my cool." Sophy chuckled, and Valerie smiled at the joke.

Sophy glanced at Rhay and Aki. She walked over slowly; her body ached with emotion. Rhay caressed Sophy's cheek. 

"I remember when you first came to us. I remember how hard it was for you to adjust. I remember..." Rhay struggled to speak. Sophy could only imagine how hard these words were for her. Sophy knew why she was more this Rhaynee's daughter than her mother.

"Mom..." Sophy whispered. That caused Rhay to flinch. She began to bawl and grabbed Sophy tight. She could feel her warmth. 

"I love you Sophy."

"I love you too mom. Stay safe. Keep an eye on everyone, heh, especially Red. He's always trouble."

Rhay laughed. "I will don't you worry, my little cinnamon roll isn't too hard to handle. Stay safe...please."

"I will mom. I promise."

Sophy leaned back and looked towards Aki. He wiped the tears from her eyes. "Percy is outside, by the old playset." He whispered, motioning to the window. Percy sat on the swings in the moonlight, his head low.

Sophy sighed. "It's time."