Wendy rushed across the room to the open window, the shadow of a boy escaping the scene.
"Peter!" She called to the boy, who was silently escaping into the quiet London night.
He turned, tears glistening in his crystal blue eyes. He wished it wouldn't have to be this way, that Wendy didn't have to grow up.
"Stay with us!" She called, tears welling up in her own eyes. His gaze lowered, and he shook his head. She knew that London city was no place for any boy who refused to accept the future.
Tears fell as she made her decision.
"Stay there!" She whispered. Turning her back to the city, she turned to the room.
"Mother?" She asked. Her mother turned to face her with a warm smile, one that had appeared from her children's return.
"What is the matter, darling?" She asked, concern flashing into her eyes at the sight of her daughter's tears.
"I have to go now." She whispered, backing towards the window. Panic arose in her mother.
"What?" Mrs Darling stood up, catching the rooms attention. She laughed, once. "I see, you're kidding. Gosh, Wendy, you're going to cause me a heart attack one day!"
A knowing look appeared John's eyes. A sad smile washed over his face.
"Come back soon, sister!" He said, eyes shining. Wendy nodded to her brother, proud that she was able to see him grow up so much in so little time.
Mr Darling stood, slowly going to join his wife, a matching look of confusion and worry on his face.
Wendy turned to the window, where a boy, no older than he had been when he first visited the house, stood, awaiting Wendy's permission to leave. He stood proudly, hands on his hips, feet positioned firmly on the ledge, but his face was full of grief: the grief of not knowing what it was like to have a family; to be missed.
Mr and Mrs Darling jumped as their gaze landed on the boy, for they had not heard him arrive.
Suddenly, they understood; their child had grown up, and had fallen in love.
Peter took one cautious step forward, his eyes locked to those of Wendy's parents. He slowly held out an inviting hand in her direction; a gesture that had gotten them into this whole mess.
She hesitated, before taking the grubby hand. Tinkerbell had long caught on, and now flew around Wendy, scattering pixie dust around her thin frame.
The lost boys averted their eyes along with John. Michael ran to Wendy, hugging her tightly. She returned the hug.
"We'll miss you." He whispered, for he too understood now.
She backed away from the group, waving before joining Peter in flight, casting one glance backwards.
Nothing mattered anymore but the warm hand in hers as she thought about what awaited her; second to the right, and straight on 'til morning.