Hero (Tom Hiddleston)

8

It was nearly ten by the time she woke up. The memories from last night clouded her mind, and she shook her head slowly. Had it been real, or had she truly only been dreaming? She just couldn't believe that she actually had her best friend back.

But when she reached over to where her phone, plugged in and on speaker as it had been, was lying, she was greeted by a text with Kyran's name on it.

Had to hang up to go to church. Text me when you're up. I love you.

She stared at it, feeling tears jump to her eyes. There he was. She couldn't believe she'd survived the past ten months without him.

I'm up. Love you too

She sighed, setting the phone down again, and got out of bed to grab some fresh clothes and a quick shower. By the time she'd down that and fixed her hair and makeup, there was another text waiting for her. She read and responded to it while she reluctantly went downstairs for breakfast that she didn't want.

What are you doing today?

I don't know. The lady said I had a visitor, but I have no idea who.

She took the plate she was handed and slunk over to the table where she and the others usually ate. Out of the five others that were left, three were sitting there now, and mumbled good morning to her. She responded in kind before checking her phone for Kyran's response.

Someone from the church, maybe?

Gosh, I hope not. I haven't told anyone

They'll figure it out, just like I did. You don't need to be scared of them, Shae

I just... I can't even imagine looking any of them in the eye ever again, Kye

I get it. But they love you.

I know. I just... can't

I understand

What are you doing today?

I've got it off, like usual. Going to the gym now

Of course you are. I'll let you workout. Text me when you're done

Sure thing. Love you

Love you too

Irene glanced up at her as she set her phone aside.

"Who are you texting?"

Shae focused on not puking at the sight of the food in front of her. "My best friend."

"The Ranger?" Ella asked.

Shae simply nodded.

"Cool." Irene hesitated before asking, "So... have they figured out where they're sending you yet?"

Shae shook her head, feeling the knot of fear in her stomach work itself even tighter. "What about you guys?"

Irene nodded slowly. "Yeah... I guess they found some safe houses, some programs for college and stuff. We're leaving tomorrow."

"Congratulations." Shae forced a smile, then focused back on her plate.

"Thanks," the other girl replied, smiling just a little. "I'm sure they'll find somewhere for you soon."

"Yeah." Some group home, probably. "I'm sure they will."

Shae forced one more bite into her mouth, then glanced over at the women who were supervising them. None of them were paying attention, so she took her chance, getting up and scraping the remainder of her breakfast into the trashcan.