Chapter 2: Reunited
Jay had remained awake all night watching, waiting for the boat to reach the island. He couldn't explain the force of eagerness, the longing, more than the "sea" sick Ebony to reach land.
"Amber wake-up, we're going to drop anchor here in a minute."
The blonde opened her eyes a wink and immediately shut them again slipping back into slumber.
"I don't even know why I bother," he thought, thinking he'd be better off with Ruby; it's what he wanted anyways. Amber just didn't light his fire anymore.
"I do, you have a heart," Ebony said squeezing past him, determined to be the first off the boat.
"Don't start Ebony," he rolled his eyes and vigorously rubbed at the back of his neck.
He squinted to see if the two figures on the beach were of human or tree form. As they got closer he nearly fainted.
"I don't believe my eyes," his jaw dropped.
Ved and Cloe stood firm on the beach, weapons in hand. Not that they were much, just a stick and Ved's laser. But they were prepared nonetheless. No boats had come their way in awhile, and they feared that it could be the Technos. Taisan and Bray were inside, prepared to serve as back-up if that was the case.
But Ved wasn't prepared for the weakness that over swept him as the boat was anchored and he recognized the passengers, one in particular. A tall blonde, in a black muscle shirt, army cargo pants, and a red T on his forehead.
Barely audible, Ved whispered, "Jay?"
"Say something to him, and get out of the way!" Ebony shoved Jay aside and got down on all fours to kiss the sandy beach.
Jay cleared his throat, "Little brother…" he paused, not sure of what to say. Ved appeared older, taller, and his hair was longer, and fluffy. Just as Jay remembered it when they were children.
Ved didn't have anything to say to his brother, just a simple gesture, an embrace. He had wished this only hours ago, and his wish had come true. There was nothing left to do, but show that he truly loved his brother.
Jay didn't pull away from his brother either; he hugged him, trying to fight back tears. He couldn't believe his hope, a simple wish, had lead him to the greatest day of his life post-virus.
Brothers, family reunited stood hugging each other in the sand amongst their friends, with nothing to say, but, "I love you."