"..."
11
Pax Tollitur
Every night before bed, I braided my hair to keep it healthy and strong. That night was no exception. Even in the dark emptiness of my cell, with the certainty of death ever-present in my mind. The only uncertainty that I faced was the form or method of my execution.
It was unusual for anyone to enter my cell during the night cycle. When the Stormtrooper appeared well after midnight, it puzzled me. I followed him through winding corridors that were completely unfamiliar until we entered a plain room with a long table in the center. I was grateful to take the closest seat since my knees felt weak from walking so far.
A banquet of my favorite foods was spread before me.
Ben sat silently at the other end of the table.
"I wanted you to enjoy your last meal," he said tonelessly.
I subconsciously licked my lips. "That was very thoughtful of you," I said. Shakily picking up a fork, I selected a thick slice of ham and some roasted purple yams. My stomach turned at the strong smell as I began to slice the meat.
"You used to love the yams they made at the academy," Ben said.
"I did," I agreed.
The silence stretched as I began to eat. Ben watched me with an empty plate before him, and I wondered what he had planned for me. On my third bite, I felt an unusual crunch between my teeth, and a bitter taste erupted on my tongue.
Ah.
I chewed the rest of the bite and swallowed carefully. Making eye contact with Ben, I immediately saw the knowing look in his eyes.
"I've been reminiscing too," I said conversationally. My mouth suddenly went dry, so I lifted a glass of water to my lips.
"Tell me," Ben said curiously.
"We had so many fun trips as younglings"—I coughed into my hand—"since your parents were away so much."
"We did," he said, and I heard the smile in his voice.
"Do you—do you remember…"
The room had begun to spin, and I couldn't seem to pick up my fork. I grasped the side of the table as I felt the blood begin to rush against the back of my skull. When I hit the ground, I barely felt the impact. Ben's face appeared, and I felt him lifting my upper body onto his lap. He was speaking.
"I'm sorry, Pax. I'm so sorry."
But I wasn't upset. I was at peace. Finally, I can rest. I closed my eyes in anticipation. "Ben...do you remember the trip to...one of the...one of the moons...of Chandrila?"
"Tripoli." I felt a few hot tears spill onto my cheeks. Were they mine, or his? "I remember."
"That was...so much fun," I whispered, smiling. Realizing that I was holding his hand, I squeezed it tightly.
"It was."
"Even back then, I think...I loved you."
Being held by the boy I had loved for so long was more than I could ever ask for. I listened to the sound of his voice as my world slipped into darkness.
"I know."