Refugee
Dusk had come early. Wintertime was cruel to those who could not afford comfort. Mary laid out the blanket, covering the three children that stared wide-eyed up at her. They were freezing. Unused to European temperatures, the people who resided in this camp struggled to endure the winter months.
With a chill breeze, the wind had brought her here. To an ever-growing collection of temporary settlements on the outskirts of France, where families waited to be granted mercy. By the government, by religious groups, by anyone who would help.
For the time being, Mary was one of those few people who offered her assistance. She was here to ensure nothing happened to the children, but it was clear to see that everyone needed support. Even if it was a simple greeting or a smile.
Mary made sure the children were tucked tightly and warmly in their blanket, hearing the crackling of a woodfire nearby and the babble of conversation in various languages. One of her wards stared up at her, whispering her name.
"Yes?" she hummed.
"When will we find a new home?"
She couldn't say. Never one to break promises, she couldn't even vow that they would be safe. Yet, as long as they were with her, they would be. But the wind was unpredictable.
"One day, you will have a home," she told them, voice unusually tender. "You must be good for your mother. She works hard to try and find somewhere for you to live. In the meantime, you must stay strong."
"And you won't leave us?"
"I will stay till the fire burns out."
All three glanced across at the fire in their shack, praying that in the morning, it would still be burning bright. Mary left them to sleep, standing outside and looking once more over the huts, shacks, and tents that had been made for temporary accommodation.
The whole world had become muddled and topsy-turvy. What a time to be living in.
This is quite a political prompt to have, especially at the moment, and so I thought it best to keep it vague but to the point. I hope it turned out okay.
Also, as I can't reply privately, thank you Millie for your review! And I completely agree, it would have been nice for her to say goodbye, especially as she always does in the books (and in the other film/musical). It did feel a little lacking in that sense because they would have realised shortly after that she was gone. Let's hope someone has written something for it so we can get some closure :')