Silena(revised)

five

The stars are so beautiful. Every one of them is. Like diamond jewels against pitch black skin. They say the greatest heroes in time become stars after they die. Their souls rise up and form a shining mass in the sky. Were my parents heroes? Can't say. My Gramma? Can't say, either. They might not be heroes, but they're special. At least to me. I like to know, Ma and Pa are sitting high up in the sky, always looking over me. After Gramma dies, I hope she becomes a star too.

I was up on the thatched rooftop, counting stars like every night. I'd eventually become tired of it and fall asleep. But, that day, it was different. I had that dreadful feeling in the pit of my stomach which didn't let me rest. I sighed in melancholy.

My life would have little meaning after Gramma dies. All my life, I had been with Gramma, taken care of her and loved her. I would have Zhen, Mai and a couple other people sticking for me—maybe even marry Burek, but it did not satisfy me. Now that I think about it, this life never did satisfy me. Facing insults from fellow people, feeding and bathing Gramma, doing household chores—these did not suit me. I was built for more. But, now that Gramma's dying—I want more than anything for her to live. She's my only family. She can't be more precious. She's something I can't forget and never will. 

The cool night breeze finally managed to lull me into the land of dreams as I closed my eyes.

***

Cock a doodle doo! Cock a doodle doo! The rooster crowed, waking me up instantly.
      I jumped down from the rooftop, landing nimbly on the earth on my knees and palms. I got up, brushing off the dust. "Ha!" After a good night's sleep, I was feeling cheerful. I entered the hut and called,"Rise and shine, Gramma!" I threw open the windows to let the light in. No answer. Gramma usually would wake up asking for water.

I went over towards Gramma's bed to wake her. Maybe she was feeling unwell? "Gramma, you should wake up. It's morning!" I shook her aged body. She didn't stir even a bit. Is she unconscious?
      I dashed out of the hut to look for Mai.

***

Mai hurried back with me. "Why's she unconscious all of a sudden? Did the medicine not work? She's becoming more unstable." Mai was a picture of concern, even though she'd just woken up.

I burst in through the door, closely followed by Mai. She rushed to Gramma and felt her forehead. "It's...cold." she murmured to herself. Mai quickly grabbed her wrist to check her pulse. She gasped. She put her ear to Gramma's chest, but a tear dripped down her eye.

She got up. "What happened?" My voice felt shaky as I'd already anticipated the answer.
      A cry escaped my throat.

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Love,
Mirage