Epilogue – Mischief Managed.
“I…” Mandy swallowed, eyes gazing into Fred’s imploringly.
“I can feel your longing for him to stay, Mandy…but the fact you’re willing to give him up to keep him from harm…is admirable…and more than likely means you love him a little more than he-”
“Shutup!” Mandy hissed at the disembodied voice. “I may not be able to see you…but I can sure as hell throw one or two colourful words back at you should the mood strike me.” Fred smiled proudly as she glared at the ceiling. “Fred is the reason I’m alive right now for you to chastise us both! You think I’m going to give up someone I’m in love with because you want me to!” she smirked over at Fred. “Besides, if I just vanished into thin air…one or two questions might arise you wouldn’t want answered, I feel.” Her smirk slowly vanished though, her expression turning warm as she took Fred’s hand in hers. “Fred…will you stay with me?”
Fred grinned, giving the bird to the ceiling before hugging Mandy tightly. “Of course I will you silly girl!”
“Good, now,” the disembodied voice sighed as it began to fade away. “Kiss her…and say Drop Dead Fred…”
Fred smiled adoringly down at Mandy and pressed a tender kiss to her lips. “Drop Dead Fred…”
“Oh my God…” Mandy and Fred jumped apart as they heard Lizzy’s withered old voice whisper in shock from the doorway. “Fred?”
“Hey, Snotface.” Fred winked, laughing with Lizzy and Mandy as they regaled Lizzy with the story of their time together…knowing they’d never have to be parted again.
***
And so, Mandy and Fred went off together into the real world, to save others from their nightmares and bring joy to a world where children are asked to go up too quickly…and too painfully…
Finish.
