Since Coran's tenth birthday, they would visit their mother bi-annually; once in the summer, for their birthday, and once in the winter for hers. It was a pleasant cycle, and with Julius, everything felt very familial and enjoyable. It was halfway through Coran's fifteenth year of life, sometime during the autumn, when there came the realization that things wouldn't be that way forever.
"I'm an old man, you know." Came the voice of Julius from behind Coran in the cart. They had learned to drive it at some point so Julius could rest more.
"Yes..?" They didn't see where he was going with that.
"I won't be around forever. One day, if you stay on this path, you'll be driving this old cart alone." Coran blinked, digesting his words.
"M-maybe so, but..."
They looked up at the stars above, each twinkling in their own unique way. Almost like people, with their seeming similarity yet world of difference. In one he could see the kind smile of Julius. Another, the warm embrace of their mother. Yet others, still, reminded them of the people in the village they grew up in. A smile graced their face, and they sighed wistfully.
"I don't think I'll r-really be alone."
"I'm glad to hear it."
In that moment, Julius sounded so relieved, and Coran had to remind themself that he was only human.
Word Count: 228
In which time passes, and Coran realizes Julius won't be around forever.
Just a quick reminder to check out my profile and vote on my poll! This fic hasn't gotten any votes, though due to Another Chance (the 'parent' fic is what I'd call it) being one of the fics in first place, I'll probably keep updating this regardless on whether or not it gets any votes.
Next Saturday: the inevitable happens.