Memento Mori
She was so tired and her feet ached. Her legs were heavy and heard to move, but her heart felt even heavier. She clutched the small bundle to her chest, looking at his peacefully sleeping face. She suddenly felt strength run through her again and she knew she had to keep him safe.
"It's okay, my love," Merope whispered as she stumbled through the streets, her feet bare and bloodied. "I am going to make sure you are safe, warm, and loved." At the end of the street she saw it. An orphanage. As tears fell from her eyes, Merope knew that that was the only way for her child to lead a normal life.
After a few sharp knocks the door swung open to reveal a plump woman. She looked at Merope with a strange expression. It was sad, yet her nose was scrunched in distaste. The young mother ignored her glance and held out the child in front of her. The woman took the baby just before Merope collapsed to the floor, her eyes partially closed with exhaustion. Crouching beside her, the older woman held out the baby so Merope could see him.
"What's his name?"
"Tom… after his daddy."
"Do you need something to eat? Drink?" The woman asked, gesturing inside. Merope shook her head, lifting her hand slowly and running a finger along her baby's face.
"Take care of him, make sure he's loved," she whispered. Then her hand fell to the floor and her eyes fell shut.
"Ma'am!" The older woman called, taking one hand off the child to shake her shoulder. The baby had awoken due to the shout and was now crying, his eyes the same shade as his fathers. The woman called out for the help of one of the other staff, passing the baby to a younger girl. The girl was not much younger than the one now laying on the doorstep, heart stilled. She looked from Merope to the baby in her arms. Her brow furrowed and her heart went out to the child. Only a few hours old and learning the worst pars of living. Death.
Words: 357
Written for:
'June Event': Merope Gaunt