The Time Giver

Epilogue

Two days later, Kelly's vehicle rolled into the driveway, gravel crunching under her tires. Piper stood on the porch, barking and waving her tail like a propellor. As they rolled to a stop, a few horses whinnied from the barn. The autumn moon cast an opal glow on the red and gold leaves of the maples and oaks around the house, creating tiny ghosts.

Kelly stepped out of the car, laughing as Piper watched the passenger side door. "You might as well get out," she chuckled. "She already knows you're in there."

The door opened, and Zach stepped out. Piper let out a yip as she launched herself off of the porch, barreling toward him. She whined like a meek puppy as she slammed into his legs, licking his outstretched hands. "Easy now, Piper, easy," he laughed. "Settle down."

Kelly snorted as she walked into the house, Zach and Piper following. The Bernese mountain dog continued to whine and bark like a puppy as they walked upstairs. At the top was Mooney, yowling and rubbing against the spindles of the banister.

"Looks like you all rolled out the welcome wagon for me," Zach chuckled as they turned the corner and headed to his room. His permanent room, now. For real.

He walked in and sat his duffel bag down on the bed, looking around. It was just as he had left it. The book shelf was stocked with books, a few he'd read at night before going to bed. The desk had a few things out of place from when he threw things on there every once in awhile. On the dresser was a horse figurine- a grulla, like Turner.

"Just so you know," Kelly said, leaning against the doorframe, "Nothing has changed around here." She recited the rules as if she did it every day. "Breakfast is at six thirty sharp. An hour after, you get cold food. After that, it's -"

"Cereal," Zach interrupted with a smile. "We usually skip lunch, so it's advised you come to breakfast."

Kelly nodded. "Supper is at six, and then lights out at ten."

Zach walked over to her, hugging her tightly. "I wouldn't have it any other way." Then he glanced at the alarm clock on the desk. "It's almost eleven."

"Well, no one's perfect," Kelly laughed. Piper wagged her tail once, then made her way to Kelly's door, nosing it open and trotting inside. "I agree with her," she chuckled as she gently pulled away. "See you tomorrow, kiddo. Good night."

Zach smiled as he watched her walk to her door. "Night, Mom."

She paused, her hand on the knob. Then she smiled at him. "You know, it's been awhile since I've heard that." As Zach retreated into his room, he heard her murmur to herself:

"I think I could get used to that."

^^^

This was a final chapter added during the editing process. Thank you all.