One Chance

It was the hardest choice she ever had to make. Because choosing between family and a chance at her own happiness meant taking a risk. But she didn't have a day or even an hour to think it over. Her decision would have to come in a matter of seconds. So much pressure arose in that time. A cluster of thoughts swirled in her head: She knew she loved him and she knew he loved her back. Together they had shared something special and both their worlds had seen it too. She had tried so hard to save him from being killed by her father only to have one of his own betray him. And now they were placed in this situation where she might never see him again.

When he said the words, "Come with me," she didn't know what to say. She had never been anywhere else. But she also had never cared for someone as deeply as she did for John Smith. She looked to her father, the chief, for some kind of reassurance, he nodded as if to say, the decision is yours.

She finally found strength to put into words what she should say. "I'm needed here."

"Then I'll stay with you."

She was utterly shocked at his immediacy and devotion to herself. "No, you'll die."

They ultimately settled on parting separate ways. It was painful to see him go. As soon as he was aboard the ship, she ran far into the woods and out onto one of her favorite cliffs overlooking the beautiful landscape. In the distance she could see the ocean and it waves carrying the ship further out to sea.

But Pocahontas could not take it anymore. She wanted to go. She needed to go. Her heart could not imagine continuing a life without him in it.

Pocahontas ran back down to her village with all the strength and speed she could muster, she found her father and told him of her last minute decision. Though it pained his heart, he knew she would be happy.

She paddled out in her canoe, hoping to catch up with the ship in time before it became harder to navigate through the waves.

When she got nearer, she called out, "John Smith!"

A few of the men looked over in surprise. They were definitely not expecting anyone, let alone the brave female native who saved their Captain's life. After some seconds, they were able to lower a rope down for her to climb and be pulled up on deck. John was there, eyes closed, enjoying the last of the salty breeze before the journey got too rough.

On seeing him there, she found relief and peace. She walked toward him. As her form blocked the sunlight, he noticed the change and opened his eyes.

"Pocahontas?!"

"John!" She knelt down beside him and rested her head on his hand. He stroked her hair.

"I thought you were staying?"

"After all that we've been through, I couldn't think of losing you." She watched him smile.

"But what about your father?"

"I told him that this would be my path. He understands. And sends his blessing."

He smiled again, "I'm glad you came."

"I am too."

He slid his right hand to the back of her neck bringing her in for a kiss. She closed her eyes with anticipation as their lips touched. Her arms overlapped his, sliding upon his shoulders.

"I love you, Pocahontas."

"I love you, John Smith."

Now she was truly happy. And so was he. He could at long last cease traveling or rather running from place to place—for he had found solace with Pocahontas.

Epilogue

Together they would be an unstoppable force for good. They would influence his people while helping hers. Eventually, because she missed it so much, they would return to her father's village and make their home there.