The next four years of Philipp's life were a joy. Jacob was strong, smart, and had an unquenchable imagination. During the day he was transforming sticks into swords or magic wands, and at night he refused to go to bed until his father told him a story. He loved his father's stories. Tales of dragons, knights, and fairy princesses were his lullaby. He was a good boy, but Philipp and Dorothea were concerned. The other children didn't respond well to Jacob.
There was one instance in the market when a few boys Jacob's age were kicking a ball to one another. Philipp suggested Jacob ask to join them. His son was only a few feet away from the boys when they noticed him approaching. The tallest of the bunch abruptly picked up the ball and walked away, the other boys following in his wake. Jacob watched them leave, then turned to his father with tears in his wide green eyes. As a father, it broke Philipp's heart. If Jacob had just one friend, one playmate, he was sure it would make a world of difference. After Jacob had been put to bed that night, Philipp and Dorothea came up with a solution. What could be better companionship than that of two siblings?
When Wilhelm was born, there were complications. Philipp explained to Jacob that when he was born he showed his head first. He was wailing, excited to face the world he had become a part of. Wilhelm was just a little scared. That's why he put his toes out first; he wanted to test that the waters were safe. From the moment Jacob first saw Wilhelm, he loved him unconditionally. For a while he kept his distance, fearing baby Wilhelm wouldn't like him. He watched his family from afar. They looked so happy. Then his mother met his eyes and smiled.
"Jacob. Come here and meet your brother."
Nervously, he tiptoed over to the bed. Philipp gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Don't be afraid," he said.
With awe, Jacob peered at the little bundle in his mother's arms. He couldn't believe that a person could be so small. Warily, he reached out a finger, gently placing it in the center of his brother's palm. When the little fist wrapped around it, Jacob laughed with delight.
"I don't think he's scared anymore, Dad!" Philipp and Dorothea casted warm smiles at one another.
"No son. I don't think he is."
"You don't have to be scared ever again, Wilhelm," Jacob promised. "I will always protect you, no matter what. I swear on my life."
Young Jacob couldn't have imagined then that "life" really would be the price he'd pay.
To Be Continued...
A/N: I love vacation, I can get so much writing done! This one was short, so I was able to get it up quickly :D Thank you again, for reading, following, and reviewing! Hopefully I'll be able to get the next chapter up soon.