A Not so Wicked Paradise

CHP 30: Thomas

I explained to my friends what my Runners and I had uncovered on our run. Minho relaxed a bit and discussed how to help them become integrated into our community. At dinner he formally announced our new arrivals to the entire community. No one had any complaints. 

Minho cleared his throat and spoke, "Now that we've settled that, onto our next topic for today. It concerns the behavior and actions of a few members of our community. Jack, Chris and Ivan."

After outlining the entire situation to the community, there was open question/answer which prompted heated debate over what to do with the men. Ultimately, it was decided to have them banished from our community. I was relieved, as were my friends.

3 months later 

I woke with a start. 

Teresa's warm, smiling face greeted me. I grinned.

I had taken a nap on the beach and she just had to come over and wake me up.

Typical Teresa, always wanting to do something.

"Want to go for a walk Tom?" She asked.

"Sure." I replied.

We walked for a while in silence. I thought about how far we had come. From strangers to friends, from friends to enemies... and from enemies to being in a romantic relationship with one another. I eyed her hand, and decided to grab it and hold it. 

We held hands as we walked together, making small talk about the community.

I honestly believe that it is in small moments like these, that seem so insignificant or small in the large span that is our lives that we should appreciate everything we have.

Not such a long time ago WICKED ruled our lives.

Now we lived in, well... a not so WICKED Paradise.

"Want to grab some dinner together, Teresa?" I asked, my stomach grumbling.

"Sure babe." She replied.

We walked away from the beach, towards the community, towards our friends.

Never looking back once.