"Well, here we are" Rick said, extending his hand to help me out of the bushes. As we approached a development, I couldn't stop the tears that were flowing down my cheeks. There were so many people here. Adults, children, some as young as toddlers and infants. They were actual living people.
As I took it all in, I didn't even realize Rick was staring at me. "Wow, you weren't lying when you said you haven't seen a person in two years." "Rick.." I whispered, trying to hold back more tears, but it didn't work. I fell to my knees and began to sob. When I looked up I saw that anyone who was outside was gawking at me. Suddenly, I felt a strong pair of hands around my arms, helping me up. "Let's get you inside" He said soothingly. "I'll take you to my place and you can wrap your mind around all of this without anyone staring at you."
Rick led me around the block and into a huge house that looked like it hadn't been touched. It was spotless and organized, not a single thing was out of place, as if we were living in a normal world. Before I walked in I noticed there were two cars outside in the driveway. I couldn't believe how normal it all looked.
"Sara," Rick said, shaking my arm which shook me out of my trance. "Oh I - sorry - I jus -" I couldn't get my words out. Rick smiled at me. "Can I get you something to drink? Something to eat? What can I do to help you right now?" I think he could tell I was flustered and not paying attention because he took a step towards me. He put a hand on either side of my shoulders and began to rub my arms. "Let's get you upstairs. When's the last time you had a decent nights sleep?" He asked as he led me to the staircase. "I don't even know.." I said, suddenly realizing he had taken my hand in his to lead me up the stairs. I didn't mind though. It was very comforting and it was nice to touch another person.
"You can sleep in here if you want. My room is just down there" he said pointing down the hall. "It's about 1 or 2 pm right now, but sleep as long as you want Sara. You need it. Especially after toda-" I cut him off by throwing myself at him, giving him the biggest hug I've ever given anyone. The tears began to flow again. "I can't even begin to express how thankful I am to you Rick. Not only did you save my life, but you took me in without a second thought. I am forever grateful." He was definitely taken back by the hug, but then wrapped his arms around me after what I said. I pulled back and looked into his crystal blue eyes. They were so beautiful and I could get lost in them. "You saved my life in more ways than one today. And I will without a doubt pull my weight around here." I kissed his cheek and managed to smile at him. He smiled back. "If you need anything at all, just let me know. I will be outside with the others. Get some sleep girl." I looked at the bed and admired it. I haven't slept in a bed in two years. I let out a small moan when I got into the bed, forgetting that I wasn't alone. Rick chuckled when he heard it and I was flushed with embarrassment. With that, he walked out the door and I let myself slip into the darkness that I haven't gotten enough of in years.
