CHAPTER 2
LONDON, ENGLAND MUSIC IN DREAMS.
Of course her parents became ecstatic when they hear of the news. They begged Wendy to choose to marry for it would be a wonderful thing for her and he was a good man whom loved her a great deal and would protect her from all evils. Think of what you're future will be like.Think of how wonder he is.Think of how martially comfortable you will be. At the end of the conversation, Wendy had kept her mouth shut about her already made decision and went to bed bemused and frustrated.
She was in a garden, an exquisitely beautiful garden, well crafted and designed with its hanging vines, strategically placed. Its flowers shimmered softly under the pale light of a full moon. Some purple, some gold still yet others blue and crimson. Each flower held its own mystery, sang its own music and breathed its own breath. Each where a world all of their own with tiny cities of dancing light built into their core. There was a babbling brook to the east and from it, flowed crystal clear waters, in which were so clear, you could see the reflection of every thing in the garden across its surface, as if it were an under water panting with a glass surface to cover over its mystery and hidden wonder from the rest of the world. Still yet, there was a tree in which emanated a strange light that reminded her greatly of a gentle fire. There, each leaf upon the limbs seemed to glitter with life as a white wind gently goaded the mystic tree into an enchanting yet so surreal dance. It lulled her towards it, with its mesmerizing, hypnotic motions. Her own long white gown flowed as her feet crushed the velvet carpet of shadowed green, when she strode from across the garden, and towards the enchanted tree. A hauntingly beautiful melody sank into the air, blowing about as if it was lighter then a feather. As the first note had played across the open plane, glowing specks of light had risen from the trees, bushes and flowers, floating around in rhythm to the soothing melody. Wendy's eyes caught the silhouette of a figure with unruly hair, lazily perched on a limb of the tree, his back pressed firmly to the trunk, a leg dangling carelessly over the bough. In their hands, a score of wooden pipes in which were the source of the serenade. The tinkling sound of small bells chimed in harmony with the pipes, creating an unknown depth to the lullaby. Slowly, one by one, she heard each parts of the garden contribute their part in the musical. A strange wind blew through the sheer material of her dress, lifting it in a sheet of fabric snow behind her. Her chestnut curls, which she noted were hanging freely down her waist, a crown of creamy lilies placed to the very top of it. She felt so free, so light as if she were floating at the edge of nothingness, touching only the air which was given in her command.
Suddenly the music abruptly ceased, and an endless trail of glowing lights, receded into the night air by way of the moon light. The garden became silent, only the crickets sang the bitter sweet lament. Her attentions were once again directed towards the tree where the figure was now moving. They did a graceful back flip from the branch, landing to the ground with out a sound, not a single whisper of footstep. The boy stretched tall to his full stature, yawning absently. He was taller then she remembered, broader, and well sculptured. Wendy smiled, her bare feet darting across the stepping stones of the small brook, towards the tree's majesty. She paused two stepping stones away, glancing up at the boy, who was only half shadowed by the moon. She watched him hold out his hand to her, beckoning her towards him. The girl closed her eyes, before vivid picture of two blue green eyes were painted across her mind. She felt air all around her and all at once she felt weightless. When she reopened them, she was hovering in the air, treading it as if it were water and she silently made her way towards the boy's out stretched hand. Seconds later she grabbed it allowing the boy to pull her to the top of the tree above the whole garden, where they could get the view of the whole island. Wendy's eyes filled with tears as she sat back, watching the movement of every living creature in sight.
"I miss it so." She whispered sadly, glancing for the first time over at her companion.
He gazed at her curiously, a mischievous smile that taunted those at the mercy of his Sea green eyes eternally.
She sighed dejectedly.
"So much has happened since I left never, never land." She whispered, her crisp eyes wandering endlessly around the isle, trying desperately to brand its image across her mind's picture forever. "Six years ago now."
She gazed over at the youthful boy who was still covered mostly in shadow.
"Time flies in my world you know, and you get older just as I have." She smiled sadly, gazing at the boy. "And you, Peter Pan, you are just the same aren't you?"
Peter pulled completely out of the shadows and Wendy suddenly realized his was actually older then before. Not by much granted but none the less, he had aged a bit. He looked about the age of fifteen maybe, maybe sixteen.
She giggled, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
"Oh, ho, I stand corrected."
She sighed, leaning her head on his shoulder absently, but this didn't seem to bother Peter in the least.
"There are times that I wished I had stayed in Neverland with you and the boys." She whispered. "I miss the freedom and care freeness that goes along with it."
"Then Why didn't you?" he asked, staring into her melancholic eyes.
She sighed, sitting up.
"You know the answer to that peter. Please do not patronize me."
She gazed up, "You're still just a little boy aren't you peter, no matter how old you really look? And you always will be." She smiled sadly, ignoring a pain in her chest. "I never want to grow up!" he stated determinedly. "You, you Wendy should stay, it's not the same without you."
She smiled leaning forwards slightly to place a hand on the youth's shoulder.
"You know I can't. I must return to my world, my time, and my life. This is what I am meant to do Peter Pan. That, is my great adventure."
She was surprised to see Peter's eyes so down cast. They seemed to have lost all their mischievous zest. She reached forwards, lifting his chin in her palm, a sweet smile on her face.
"The window is still unlocked peter. Always."
Somewhere, in the distance, a voice sang a serenade from the sea, to the earth, wind and sky. And as it was sung, both Wendy and peter became entranced by its enticing and lilting tune. Unknown to either of them, their fingers joined together, resting interwoven with eachother's on the high tree branch.
Wendy's eyes fluttered open, they just staring into the vastness of the dark space. She lit the candle beside her bed and was not surprised to find someone resting beside her.
"Dreaming?" A mildly deep voice asked.
She sighed loudly, her head falling into the comfort of one of her three down pillows.
"I went back to Neverland." She whispered, placing an over top her eyes. "You were there you know."
"Was I now." The voice came again, sounding a bit amused.
Wendy reached over and jabbed the unruly haired boy in the side.
"Yes you were."
Wendy rose, throwing her blue satin robe a top her white gown. She walked over to the window, which remained unlocked. She slowly reached her hands forwards, grabbing the sides of each shutter. She took a deep breath, before opening the window. Night air immediately wrapped her face in its icy shawl. It ran up the curtains like a frightened animal trying to escape. In its haste, it knocked over a lamp that Wendy had placed on her nightstand by the rocking chair.
Sighing, she bent, replacing it in its rightful place. A hand on her shoulder startled her and gazed into the eyes of a boy. She let out her breath indignantly, smacking him in the leg.
"Do not startle me like that Pan!" she hissed.
The boy laughed, floating into a sitting position four feet about the ground.
"Oh the cleverness of me."
Wendy chuckled lightly, collapsing in her chair.
"Why do allow myself to continue this way Peter?" she mused, her eyes drooping slightly out of exhaustion. "Why does a part of me still keep hope alive that you will return to London one day, when I know very well that you shant."
Peter shrugged carelessly, almost as if he didn't care however, Wendy knew better. Wendy probably knew Peter better then anyone else, including himself.
"We all dream Wendy, we all pretend, but we don't all grow up. There is a part of you who is still a child trapped in an adult body."
Wendy smiled, nodding lightly to the illusion as her eyes closed.
"You are probably right peter. You are probably right."
Peter smiled at the sleeping girl's form and she swore she heard one last whisper before his voice faded into the shadows.
"Always Wendy, always."
"The window's open Peter.I promise." She mumbled in the quiet voice of sleep.
Wendy awoke to heavy white clouds gathered around her window, fluffy puffs of sparkling "ash" glided through the air, swirling the tops of London's tallest buildings. Wendy's lacy curtains flapped in the morning breeze, alerting her that the window was open.
'The window.' Wendy thoughts froze as did her heart. 'Peter."
The girl's brow furrowed indignantly at herself. She rose, violently grabbing the shutters, and with one fell swoop, she slammed them shut. She grabbed the bolt, and brought it through the lock. Wendy Moyra Angela Darling, turned away from the troublesome window, her footsteps retreating away and towards the hall. However, they came to an abrupt halt half way across the room and she sighed, biting her lip till she tasted blood. She spun around briskly walking towards the window in long swift strides. She quickly raked her hand under the bolt, swiping the lock away. She sighed again, before dragging herself towards the stairs and breakfast. London would always a place of curses to her.
"Ahh, Wendy, it is wonderful to see you up dear. The post just arrived and you have received a letter." Wendy regarded mother in shock. She pointed to her chest with her index finger.
"I?"
Mrs. Darling handed her an envelope addressed to her. Wendy's eyes examined it carefully, gazing at every corner curiously before running a nail underneath the sealed lip, ripping it open violently. Its contents contained a single piece of paper, neatly folded to the envelope's liking. It read to this effect:
In concern of:
Miss Wendy Moyra Angela Darling, January 6, 1904
Greetings!
It has been quite the pleasure that I have come to possess knowledge of your stories. I therefore humbly request that you attend a luncheon at The Labyrinth to further discuss this matter, on this day at the second hour of the afternoon. I am anticipating your presence.
Sincerely,
J. Barrie
Wendy gasped, her cerulean orbs sparkling in overwhelming joy and surprise.
"Well?" John prodded, lifting a curious brow at his sister.
Wendy's hands shook as she held the letter as firmly as her fingers would allow. She tossed her head towards her brothers a bitter sweet smile seasoning her lips. She looked once again at the letter still captured between her fingertips as if fluttered with the rhythm of the draft of the room, begging for its freedom.
"I- this,.it's a letter from Mr. J. Barrie." She said, finding her voice only raising to the crescendo of a fleeting whisper.
John's eyes widened, mouth falling slightly.
"The editor?"
The girl nodded.
"He has heard of my stories and wishes me to expound upon them at a luncheon today at The Labyrinth. The reason, for which he has not disclosed in the letter." She informed everyone who was now present at the table.
John tapped his chin with his fore-finger thoughtfully.
"You don't suppose that he might actually want to put them in print do you?"
Wendy's eyes misted in bewilderment.
"Why John, whatever could he wish to do that for?"
Her own brother drew back in shock, something of which neither Wendy nor the rest of her family were of witness to very often. The look in his blue eyes was laced with genuine surprise.
"Wendy, do you not know how wonderful your stories are, or how fulfilling they are? How exciting, captivating and enchanting they are to your audiences. You take them to another world with the power of your imagination as if they were actually there in reality."
Wendy's eyes practically spilled over with tears at her brothers words, maybe no one else knew, but she did. These were his hidden feelings, buried all the responsibility displayed, the maturity, and adulthood. This is who he truly was she realized. Why, it was as if he was still a child, trapped in an adult body, raving in a mundane adult world, trying to keep his head barely above water. But then again, Wendy thought as something suddenly occurred to her. maybe that was what being an adult really was. You never truly left childhood too terribly far behind, and in the depths of your soul and a forgotten chamber of your heart, you were still really a child, just, different in unique ways however.. Wendy's thoughts were abruptly intruded upon as John's mouth voice a second opinion causing her spirit to sink .squelching her happy thought so that flight became impossible.
"I just know that children would love your stories of pirates, fairies and mermaids." He assured, although he refused to make eye contact with her and she knew very well why.this made her angry though, she let it pass with out a word to be said.
'Children.'
His deep dark secret that he wanted no adult to know.he was lying to himself, and both he and Wendy knew it.
"Oh yes Wendy!" Michael gushed, a far away looking rushing upon his eyes like dams breaking their barriers after so long. "All will love your stories so very much for they are so very lovely to listen to and they do ever so captivate the mind!"
The girl smiled at this and could not contain herself as her hand fell to the top of Michael's head.
"Thank you Michael. You truly are an inspiration to me and I deeply cherish you words and thoughts." She leaned forwards, kissing the mess of auburn curls, a twinkle of love shining in the depths of her blue irises. "May you never lose your youthful vigor as some of us have allowed."
Her eyes abruptly faded as they meandered directly upon John, stabbing their unfeeling blades of ice into him mercilessly. Her brother, in turn, quickly turned, excusing himself to work, though not before wishing his sister luck.
"Wendy, are you also to tell Mr. Wade of your decision?" she inquired curiously.
The girl sighed as her thoughts were ripped back to the previous night and all its events, including that of her dream. She physically turned her head away, trying desperately to flee from the figure's face staining her mind, Wishing she could shun it completely though she knew well, she didn't have the heart..or the want.
Her senses were brought back to the presence with Michael's voice.
"What decision is this that mother is speaking of Wendy?"
Wendy felt her heart sink slowly to the bottom of her sea of sorrow filling an empty cavern with in the core of her soul. She had forgotten her brothers had not been present to hear Mr. Wade's proposal to her. She also quickly became aware of John's footsteps ceasing in the hallway, waiting for her response. She looked down for fear that if they saw into her eyes, she would not be able to hid her uncertainty and they would recoil at the sight.
"Mr. Wade, he.he proposed marriage to me last night."
Michael's fork clattered to the tile floor below his chair. His azure eyes widened in absolute horror, making her heart sink further as he felt the very roots of her spirit clutched by his helpless look, and the resonating light she had become so familiar with, that wonderful fire that burned clearly through his veins..faded to the realm of shadow being replaced by a requiem of silence.
"And?" John asked calmly though he could not mask the shock hidden behind the transparent blue glass.
Wendy took a long breath before getting any further, making sure all eyes were planted on her just as firmly.
"I have decided to marry." She whispered so quietly, it was hard to hear her.
Mrs. Darlings eyes lit up beyond all belief and she clapped joyously.
"Wendy, that is wonderful news!" she exclaimed, pecking her daughter's cheek with a tender kiss.
A chair fell. Two bitter tears rolled down a smaller round face, one of which dripped to the floor. Wendy gasped, her eyes falling on her youngest brother startled.
"Michael Darling!" his mother cried in alarmed dismay, shocked at the absurd behavior of her, normally well behaved son. "What has come over you?!"
The boy stabbed his sister with his wounded eyes, liquid crystal lining their rims. They rammed into John next, not taking the time for a subtle shift. The sharpness took his brother back.
"We never should have left Neverland!" he screamed, hot tears now falling without any resistance.
He turned, taking to flight up the stairs, heading towards the nursery. "You would never of had to grow up!"
"Michael!" Mr. Darling warned, his brash voice echoing on the deadly quiet room.
Mrs. Darling had never seen the boy in such distraught. Could this really be her sweet little Michael who loved to learn, who lived and breathed for adventure? It made her heart eternally troubled and she wonder in dismay, what could have possibly driven him to such madness of his words. Surly it could not have been Wendy's news. They heard a door slam viciously and Wendy was afraid his rage would rip it right off his hinges. She winced, the hairs of her neck standing straight on end, shivers erupting down her spine endlessly.
"What in all of that which is holy would cause the boy to act as if he were omnipotent?!" Mr. Darling spat sourly.
His wife's hand fell to his arm, soothing his anger.
"George, I believe that it is linked to all going on at this moment for you know as well as I, Michael has never seemed so troubled before. For now, please, I beg you to allow this storm to pass. There is nothing we can do for the moment to sooth the disquiet of our boy."
The man sighed, sensing this to be very true.
"Very well."
Wendy suddenly stood, gazing directly into her parents eyes, spirit firmly determined.
"I believe I can guess the problem. I shall go try to comfort him, console him the best I can." She insisted.
Without awaiting a response for pleasure or displeasure at her words spoken, she left, climbing the towering stair case to her left.
Moments later, the girl stood outside the nursery door, collecting her thoughts. She reached forwards, grasping the brass knob in her palm. She knocked lightly with the other hand in a soft, un-provoking fashion.
There came a sniff from just beyond the barrier, indicating to Wendy that her brother was, or had been crying.
"Who is it?" he half choked, half sobbed.
"Wendy."
There came a pause, followed by a loud bang.
"Go away!" came the curt reply.
Ignoring the warning, she twisted the knob in her hand, slowly stepping forwards, pushing the door with her as she entered into the brightly sun lit room.
Michael disregarded her presence, turning his head towards the window to the west of the room..it was open and the curtains flapped in the chilly morning air. Wendy joined him, sitting on the foot of his bed.
"What is troubling you?" she asked meekly, placing her slender fingers against the small of his back.
Despite his greatest efforts, tears ensued immediately.
"Wendy, I don't ever want you to grow up!" he whispered urgently, his head falling into her lap where he buried his face in the soft folds of the robe's satin material.
She exhaled softly, placing a hand a top her brothers head, intertwining her fingers in the copper fire of the ringlets.
"Michael, we all must grow up. It is a part of the life in which you and I exist. Do remember, 'to live is the greatest adventure of them all."
Her brother's eyes became down cast, a resonance of sadness etching their beauty. A silent ode to unforgettable memories that stained his thoughts with their sweet essence eternally, as did they to Wendy's as well.
"Peter said that six years ago." He acknowledged.
The name had been sweet upon his tongue but had brought fresh tears in place of the ones now arid on his face.
"Yes. Yes he did." Wendy admitted, pausing before adding a question. "Do you ever think of him?"
Michael stared at her absently, knowing well his sister was not ignorant to his feelings or thoughts. "Of course I do."
The boy wrapped his arms around the young woman's waist tightly and she founding it quite difficult to breath out of his affection.
"I don't want you to forget all about me and I wish never to lose you!"
Wendy's eyes surrendered to darkness as she held the boy just as tightly to her chest.
"Michael, I swear to you, as long as I am alive, breathing, you will never lose my affections. You will always remain my delight.I promise."
The older girl gazed towards the nursery window, watching the snow fall in mystical ribbons, enchanting the streets with their harmonious melody.
"Never." she repeated, clinging to the child even tighter. "Never."
LONDON, ENGLAND MUSIC IN DREAMS.
Of course her parents became ecstatic when they hear of the news. They begged Wendy to choose to marry for it would be a wonderful thing for her and he was a good man whom loved her a great deal and would protect her from all evils. Think of what you're future will be like.Think of how wonder he is.Think of how martially comfortable you will be. At the end of the conversation, Wendy had kept her mouth shut about her already made decision and went to bed bemused and frustrated.
She was in a garden, an exquisitely beautiful garden, well crafted and designed with its hanging vines, strategically placed. Its flowers shimmered softly under the pale light of a full moon. Some purple, some gold still yet others blue and crimson. Each flower held its own mystery, sang its own music and breathed its own breath. Each where a world all of their own with tiny cities of dancing light built into their core. There was a babbling brook to the east and from it, flowed crystal clear waters, in which were so clear, you could see the reflection of every thing in the garden across its surface, as if it were an under water panting with a glass surface to cover over its mystery and hidden wonder from the rest of the world. Still yet, there was a tree in which emanated a strange light that reminded her greatly of a gentle fire. There, each leaf upon the limbs seemed to glitter with life as a white wind gently goaded the mystic tree into an enchanting yet so surreal dance. It lulled her towards it, with its mesmerizing, hypnotic motions. Her own long white gown flowed as her feet crushed the velvet carpet of shadowed green, when she strode from across the garden, and towards the enchanted tree. A hauntingly beautiful melody sank into the air, blowing about as if it was lighter then a feather. As the first note had played across the open plane, glowing specks of light had risen from the trees, bushes and flowers, floating around in rhythm to the soothing melody. Wendy's eyes caught the silhouette of a figure with unruly hair, lazily perched on a limb of the tree, his back pressed firmly to the trunk, a leg dangling carelessly over the bough. In their hands, a score of wooden pipes in which were the source of the serenade. The tinkling sound of small bells chimed in harmony with the pipes, creating an unknown depth to the lullaby. Slowly, one by one, she heard each parts of the garden contribute their part in the musical. A strange wind blew through the sheer material of her dress, lifting it in a sheet of fabric snow behind her. Her chestnut curls, which she noted were hanging freely down her waist, a crown of creamy lilies placed to the very top of it. She felt so free, so light as if she were floating at the edge of nothingness, touching only the air which was given in her command.
Suddenly the music abruptly ceased, and an endless trail of glowing lights, receded into the night air by way of the moon light. The garden became silent, only the crickets sang the bitter sweet lament. Her attentions were once again directed towards the tree where the figure was now moving. They did a graceful back flip from the branch, landing to the ground with out a sound, not a single whisper of footstep. The boy stretched tall to his full stature, yawning absently. He was taller then she remembered, broader, and well sculptured. Wendy smiled, her bare feet darting across the stepping stones of the small brook, towards the tree's majesty. She paused two stepping stones away, glancing up at the boy, who was only half shadowed by the moon. She watched him hold out his hand to her, beckoning her towards him. The girl closed her eyes, before vivid picture of two blue green eyes were painted across her mind. She felt air all around her and all at once she felt weightless. When she reopened them, she was hovering in the air, treading it as if it were water and she silently made her way towards the boy's out stretched hand. Seconds later she grabbed it allowing the boy to pull her to the top of the tree above the whole garden, where they could get the view of the whole island. Wendy's eyes filled with tears as she sat back, watching the movement of every living creature in sight.
"I miss it so." She whispered sadly, glancing for the first time over at her companion.
He gazed at her curiously, a mischievous smile that taunted those at the mercy of his Sea green eyes eternally.
She sighed dejectedly.
"So much has happened since I left never, never land." She whispered, her crisp eyes wandering endlessly around the isle, trying desperately to brand its image across her mind's picture forever. "Six years ago now."
She gazed over at the youthful boy who was still covered mostly in shadow.
"Time flies in my world you know, and you get older just as I have." She smiled sadly, gazing at the boy. "And you, Peter Pan, you are just the same aren't you?"
Peter pulled completely out of the shadows and Wendy suddenly realized his was actually older then before. Not by much granted but none the less, he had aged a bit. He looked about the age of fifteen maybe, maybe sixteen.
She giggled, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
"Oh, ho, I stand corrected."
She sighed, leaning her head on his shoulder absently, but this didn't seem to bother Peter in the least.
"There are times that I wished I had stayed in Neverland with you and the boys." She whispered. "I miss the freedom and care freeness that goes along with it."
"Then Why didn't you?" he asked, staring into her melancholic eyes.
She sighed, sitting up.
"You know the answer to that peter. Please do not patronize me."
She gazed up, "You're still just a little boy aren't you peter, no matter how old you really look? And you always will be." She smiled sadly, ignoring a pain in her chest. "I never want to grow up!" he stated determinedly. "You, you Wendy should stay, it's not the same without you."
She smiled leaning forwards slightly to place a hand on the youth's shoulder.
"You know I can't. I must return to my world, my time, and my life. This is what I am meant to do Peter Pan. That, is my great adventure."
She was surprised to see Peter's eyes so down cast. They seemed to have lost all their mischievous zest. She reached forwards, lifting his chin in her palm, a sweet smile on her face.
"The window is still unlocked peter. Always."
Somewhere, in the distance, a voice sang a serenade from the sea, to the earth, wind and sky. And as it was sung, both Wendy and peter became entranced by its enticing and lilting tune. Unknown to either of them, their fingers joined together, resting interwoven with eachother's on the high tree branch.
Wendy's eyes fluttered open, they just staring into the vastness of the dark space. She lit the candle beside her bed and was not surprised to find someone resting beside her.
"Dreaming?" A mildly deep voice asked.
She sighed loudly, her head falling into the comfort of one of her three down pillows.
"I went back to Neverland." She whispered, placing an over top her eyes. "You were there you know."
"Was I now." The voice came again, sounding a bit amused.
Wendy reached over and jabbed the unruly haired boy in the side.
"Yes you were."
Wendy rose, throwing her blue satin robe a top her white gown. She walked over to the window, which remained unlocked. She slowly reached her hands forwards, grabbing the sides of each shutter. She took a deep breath, before opening the window. Night air immediately wrapped her face in its icy shawl. It ran up the curtains like a frightened animal trying to escape. In its haste, it knocked over a lamp that Wendy had placed on her nightstand by the rocking chair.
Sighing, she bent, replacing it in its rightful place. A hand on her shoulder startled her and gazed into the eyes of a boy. She let out her breath indignantly, smacking him in the leg.
"Do not startle me like that Pan!" she hissed.
The boy laughed, floating into a sitting position four feet about the ground.
"Oh the cleverness of me."
Wendy chuckled lightly, collapsing in her chair.
"Why do allow myself to continue this way Peter?" she mused, her eyes drooping slightly out of exhaustion. "Why does a part of me still keep hope alive that you will return to London one day, when I know very well that you shant."
Peter shrugged carelessly, almost as if he didn't care however, Wendy knew better. Wendy probably knew Peter better then anyone else, including himself.
"We all dream Wendy, we all pretend, but we don't all grow up. There is a part of you who is still a child trapped in an adult body."
Wendy smiled, nodding lightly to the illusion as her eyes closed.
"You are probably right peter. You are probably right."
Peter smiled at the sleeping girl's form and she swore she heard one last whisper before his voice faded into the shadows.
"Always Wendy, always."
"The window's open Peter.I promise." She mumbled in the quiet voice of sleep.
Wendy awoke to heavy white clouds gathered around her window, fluffy puffs of sparkling "ash" glided through the air, swirling the tops of London's tallest buildings. Wendy's lacy curtains flapped in the morning breeze, alerting her that the window was open.
'The window.' Wendy thoughts froze as did her heart. 'Peter."
The girl's brow furrowed indignantly at herself. She rose, violently grabbing the shutters, and with one fell swoop, she slammed them shut. She grabbed the bolt, and brought it through the lock. Wendy Moyra Angela Darling, turned away from the troublesome window, her footsteps retreating away and towards the hall. However, they came to an abrupt halt half way across the room and she sighed, biting her lip till she tasted blood. She spun around briskly walking towards the window in long swift strides. She quickly raked her hand under the bolt, swiping the lock away. She sighed again, before dragging herself towards the stairs and breakfast. London would always a place of curses to her.
"Ahh, Wendy, it is wonderful to see you up dear. The post just arrived and you have received a letter." Wendy regarded mother in shock. She pointed to her chest with her index finger.
"I?"
Mrs. Darling handed her an envelope addressed to her. Wendy's eyes examined it carefully, gazing at every corner curiously before running a nail underneath the sealed lip, ripping it open violently. Its contents contained a single piece of paper, neatly folded to the envelope's liking. It read to this effect:
In concern of:
Miss Wendy Moyra Angela Darling, January 6, 1904
Greetings!
It has been quite the pleasure that I have come to possess knowledge of your stories. I therefore humbly request that you attend a luncheon at The Labyrinth to further discuss this matter, on this day at the second hour of the afternoon. I am anticipating your presence.
Sincerely,
J. Barrie
Wendy gasped, her cerulean orbs sparkling in overwhelming joy and surprise.
"Well?" John prodded, lifting a curious brow at his sister.
Wendy's hands shook as she held the letter as firmly as her fingers would allow. She tossed her head towards her brothers a bitter sweet smile seasoning her lips. She looked once again at the letter still captured between her fingertips as if fluttered with the rhythm of the draft of the room, begging for its freedom.
"I- this,.it's a letter from Mr. J. Barrie." She said, finding her voice only raising to the crescendo of a fleeting whisper.
John's eyes widened, mouth falling slightly.
"The editor?"
The girl nodded.
"He has heard of my stories and wishes me to expound upon them at a luncheon today at The Labyrinth. The reason, for which he has not disclosed in the letter." She informed everyone who was now present at the table.
John tapped his chin with his fore-finger thoughtfully.
"You don't suppose that he might actually want to put them in print do you?"
Wendy's eyes misted in bewilderment.
"Why John, whatever could he wish to do that for?"
Her own brother drew back in shock, something of which neither Wendy nor the rest of her family were of witness to very often. The look in his blue eyes was laced with genuine surprise.
"Wendy, do you not know how wonderful your stories are, or how fulfilling they are? How exciting, captivating and enchanting they are to your audiences. You take them to another world with the power of your imagination as if they were actually there in reality."
Wendy's eyes practically spilled over with tears at her brothers words, maybe no one else knew, but she did. These were his hidden feelings, buried all the responsibility displayed, the maturity, and adulthood. This is who he truly was she realized. Why, it was as if he was still a child, trapped in an adult body, raving in a mundane adult world, trying to keep his head barely above water. But then again, Wendy thought as something suddenly occurred to her. maybe that was what being an adult really was. You never truly left childhood too terribly far behind, and in the depths of your soul and a forgotten chamber of your heart, you were still really a child, just, different in unique ways however.. Wendy's thoughts were abruptly intruded upon as John's mouth voice a second opinion causing her spirit to sink .squelching her happy thought so that flight became impossible.
"I just know that children would love your stories of pirates, fairies and mermaids." He assured, although he refused to make eye contact with her and she knew very well why.this made her angry though, she let it pass with out a word to be said.
'Children.'
His deep dark secret that he wanted no adult to know.he was lying to himself, and both he and Wendy knew it.
"Oh yes Wendy!" Michael gushed, a far away looking rushing upon his eyes like dams breaking their barriers after so long. "All will love your stories so very much for they are so very lovely to listen to and they do ever so captivate the mind!"
The girl smiled at this and could not contain herself as her hand fell to the top of Michael's head.
"Thank you Michael. You truly are an inspiration to me and I deeply cherish you words and thoughts." She leaned forwards, kissing the mess of auburn curls, a twinkle of love shining in the depths of her blue irises. "May you never lose your youthful vigor as some of us have allowed."
Her eyes abruptly faded as they meandered directly upon John, stabbing their unfeeling blades of ice into him mercilessly. Her brother, in turn, quickly turned, excusing himself to work, though not before wishing his sister luck.
"Wendy, are you also to tell Mr. Wade of your decision?" she inquired curiously.
The girl sighed as her thoughts were ripped back to the previous night and all its events, including that of her dream. She physically turned her head away, trying desperately to flee from the figure's face staining her mind, Wishing she could shun it completely though she knew well, she didn't have the heart..or the want.
Her senses were brought back to the presence with Michael's voice.
"What decision is this that mother is speaking of Wendy?"
Wendy felt her heart sink slowly to the bottom of her sea of sorrow filling an empty cavern with in the core of her soul. She had forgotten her brothers had not been present to hear Mr. Wade's proposal to her. She also quickly became aware of John's footsteps ceasing in the hallway, waiting for her response. She looked down for fear that if they saw into her eyes, she would not be able to hid her uncertainty and they would recoil at the sight.
"Mr. Wade, he.he proposed marriage to me last night."
Michael's fork clattered to the tile floor below his chair. His azure eyes widened in absolute horror, making her heart sink further as he felt the very roots of her spirit clutched by his helpless look, and the resonating light she had become so familiar with, that wonderful fire that burned clearly through his veins..faded to the realm of shadow being replaced by a requiem of silence.
"And?" John asked calmly though he could not mask the shock hidden behind the transparent blue glass.
Wendy took a long breath before getting any further, making sure all eyes were planted on her just as firmly.
"I have decided to marry." She whispered so quietly, it was hard to hear her.
Mrs. Darlings eyes lit up beyond all belief and she clapped joyously.
"Wendy, that is wonderful news!" she exclaimed, pecking her daughter's cheek with a tender kiss.
A chair fell. Two bitter tears rolled down a smaller round face, one of which dripped to the floor. Wendy gasped, her eyes falling on her youngest brother startled.
"Michael Darling!" his mother cried in alarmed dismay, shocked at the absurd behavior of her, normally well behaved son. "What has come over you?!"
The boy stabbed his sister with his wounded eyes, liquid crystal lining their rims. They rammed into John next, not taking the time for a subtle shift. The sharpness took his brother back.
"We never should have left Neverland!" he screamed, hot tears now falling without any resistance.
He turned, taking to flight up the stairs, heading towards the nursery. "You would never of had to grow up!"
"Michael!" Mr. Darling warned, his brash voice echoing on the deadly quiet room.
Mrs. Darling had never seen the boy in such distraught. Could this really be her sweet little Michael who loved to learn, who lived and breathed for adventure? It made her heart eternally troubled and she wonder in dismay, what could have possibly driven him to such madness of his words. Surly it could not have been Wendy's news. They heard a door slam viciously and Wendy was afraid his rage would rip it right off his hinges. She winced, the hairs of her neck standing straight on end, shivers erupting down her spine endlessly.
"What in all of that which is holy would cause the boy to act as if he were omnipotent?!" Mr. Darling spat sourly.
His wife's hand fell to his arm, soothing his anger.
"George, I believe that it is linked to all going on at this moment for you know as well as I, Michael has never seemed so troubled before. For now, please, I beg you to allow this storm to pass. There is nothing we can do for the moment to sooth the disquiet of our boy."
The man sighed, sensing this to be very true.
"Very well."
Wendy suddenly stood, gazing directly into her parents eyes, spirit firmly determined.
"I believe I can guess the problem. I shall go try to comfort him, console him the best I can." She insisted.
Without awaiting a response for pleasure or displeasure at her words spoken, she left, climbing the towering stair case to her left.
Moments later, the girl stood outside the nursery door, collecting her thoughts. She reached forwards, grasping the brass knob in her palm. She knocked lightly with the other hand in a soft, un-provoking fashion.
There came a sniff from just beyond the barrier, indicating to Wendy that her brother was, or had been crying.
"Who is it?" he half choked, half sobbed.
"Wendy."
There came a pause, followed by a loud bang.
"Go away!" came the curt reply.
Ignoring the warning, she twisted the knob in her hand, slowly stepping forwards, pushing the door with her as she entered into the brightly sun lit room.
Michael disregarded her presence, turning his head towards the window to the west of the room..it was open and the curtains flapped in the chilly morning air. Wendy joined him, sitting on the foot of his bed.
"What is troubling you?" she asked meekly, placing her slender fingers against the small of his back.
Despite his greatest efforts, tears ensued immediately.
"Wendy, I don't ever want you to grow up!" he whispered urgently, his head falling into her lap where he buried his face in the soft folds of the robe's satin material.
She exhaled softly, placing a hand a top her brothers head, intertwining her fingers in the copper fire of the ringlets.
"Michael, we all must grow up. It is a part of the life in which you and I exist. Do remember, 'to live is the greatest adventure of them all."
Her brother's eyes became down cast, a resonance of sadness etching their beauty. A silent ode to unforgettable memories that stained his thoughts with their sweet essence eternally, as did they to Wendy's as well.
"Peter said that six years ago." He acknowledged.
The name had been sweet upon his tongue but had brought fresh tears in place of the ones now arid on his face.
"Yes. Yes he did." Wendy admitted, pausing before adding a question. "Do you ever think of him?"
Michael stared at her absently, knowing well his sister was not ignorant to his feelings or thoughts. "Of course I do."
The boy wrapped his arms around the young woman's waist tightly and she founding it quite difficult to breath out of his affection.
"I don't want you to forget all about me and I wish never to lose you!"
Wendy's eyes surrendered to darkness as she held the boy just as tightly to her chest.
"Michael, I swear to you, as long as I am alive, breathing, you will never lose my affections. You will always remain my delight.I promise."
The older girl gazed towards the nursery window, watching the snow fall in mystical ribbons, enchanting the streets with their harmonious melody.
"Never." she repeated, clinging to the child even tighter. "Never."