Chapter 8
Sully and Michaela are walking back to the clinic together hand in hand. Wolf is walking ahead of them, leading the way. Sully has the book of the history of the town tucked underneath his other arm. They can't wait to show Jade the book because they know it will help her learn more about how she got here and why. As they get closer to the clinic, Michaela remembers that she needs to pick up Joey from Grace's, so she excuses herself.
"I almost forgot that I must pick up Joey from Grace's before I go back to the clinic. Please let Jade know that we will join you two in a little while."
Sully acknowledges Michaela.
"That's fine, Michaela. See you and Joey in a little while."
Michaela nods as Sully gives her a peck on the cheek and a smile as she is leaving. Michaela waves and smiles back as she heads to Grace's. Sully watches her for a few minutes before he continues walking and a short time later, he finds himself at the front door of the clinic. Wolf lets out a small whine as Sully looks down and then reaches out to scratch his ears. Wolf whimpers as he sits back on his haunches. Sully enters the door of the clinic and sees Jade reading a book, an empty bowl of stew sits next to her on a tray. She hears Sully enter as she looks up from her book.
Sully smiles at her, she smiles back.
Jade closes her book and sets it down on the bed next to her.
Sully holds up the book of the town to show Jade and smiles.
Jade just looks at him curiously.
"Me and Cloud Dancing found this book at the library; it's the history of the town. We read some of it and we truly believe that it holds the information you are looking for regarding how you got here and how you are going to get back home."
Jade smiles.
"That's great!" she replies excitedly.
Sully approaches her bed and hands her the book.
"Michaela will be joining us shortly; she had to go pick up Joey from Grace's."
Jade nods, not fully listening as she has the book opened and already reading.
While Jade immerses herself in the book, Sully takes a seat beside her. He watches her as she flips through the pages, clearly intrigued by the contents. Sully's mind wanders back to the moment they found the book, a day filled with hope and anticipation. He recalls Cloud Dancing's words of wisdom and how they guided them to this discovery.
Wolf, sensing the calm in the room, curls up beside Sully's chair, his tail wagging slightly. The clinic is quiet, the only sounds being the occasional rustling of pages and Wolf's contented sighs.
Meanwhile, Michaela arrives at Grace's house. Grace, ever the gracious host, greets her warmly and invites her in. Joey is in the living room, playing with a wooden train set. His face lights up as he sees Michaela.
"Mommy!" he exclaims, running to her with open arms. Michaela scoops him up and hugs him tightly.
Grace joins them, a smile on her face. "Joey has been a delight. He's been sharing his toys with Hope and helping me with little chores."
Michaela thanks Grace and promises to visit again soon. They gather Joey's things and set off back to the clinic. Joey chatters excitedly about his day, making Michaela smile.
Back at the clinic, Jade pauses her reading to look up at Sully. "This book is incredible. It's like piecing together a puzzle."
Sully nods. "We thought it might be helpful. There's so much history in this town, and it seems like you're connected to it in ways we're only beginning to understand."
Jade's eyes glisten with determination. "I feel that too. I need to know more."
Just then, Michaela and Joey arrived. Joey runs to Sully and Wolf, his laughter filling the room. Michaela joins Jade by the bedside.
"I see you've started reading," Michaela says, noting the book in Jade's hands.
"Yes, and it's fascinating," Jade replies. "I can't wait to delve deeper."
The family spends the afternoon discussing the book, each page revealing new insights. Jade learns about the town's founding, the struggles of its early settlers, and the remarkable tales of bravery and resilience. She feels a strong connection to these stories, sensing that her own journey is intertwined with the town's history.
Michaela checks the time and realizes it's about time for Katie and Brian to return from school. She reluctantly pulls herself away from the engaging discussion and walks over to Grace to inquire about supper plans.
"Grace, what are you serving for supper tonight?" Michaela asks, her voice tinged with curiosity.
Grace smiles warmly. "I've prepared a hearty stew with fresh bread. It should be ready soon."
"Sounds wonderful. I should also check if Katie and Brian have any homework," Michaela says, glancing back at Joey, who is now peacefully asleep in Sully's lap.
Michaela places her hands on her swollen abdomen, feeling the twins kick gently. The moment is interrupted by the sound of the clinic door opening. Brian and Katie enter, their faces lighting up when they see their mother.
"Mama!" Katie cries, running to her with joy.
Michaela shares Katie's enthusiasm, embracing her daughter warmly. "Katie! How was school today, sweetheart?"
Katie's smile fades slightly. "It was good until Mrs. Slicker had us do arithmetic! She gave us homework, mama!"
Michaela laughs softly; hugging Katie tighter. "I'm glad Mrs. Slicker gave you homework. We can sit down and work on it together!"
Katie's face brightens at the thought of spending time with her mother. "When can we start working on it?" she asks eagerly.
"How about after supper?" Michaela suggests.
Katie nods enthusiastically. "Yes!" she exclaims, laughing and hugging her mother once more. She then runs over to her father and hugs him carefully, making sure not to wake Joey.
Michaela watches her family with a smile, feeling a deep sense of contentment. The clinic room is filled with warmth and laughter as they prepare to spend the evening together, eating their supper, discussing the book, sharing stories, and working on homework. The bonds between them grow stronger with each passing moment, creating cherished memories and a sense of belonging that will last a lifetime.
As dusk falls, Jade looks out the window, observing the fading light casting long shadows across the town. "It's amazing how much has happened here," she muses aloud. "And to think, we're part of this ongoing story."
Michaela, her hand resting gently on Jade's shoulder, nods. "Every generation adds its own chapter, its own unique mark on the town's legacy."
Sully chimes in, "And maybe, Jade, your chapter is just beginning. Who knows what incredible things are yet to come?"
Jade smiles, feeling a surge of hope and excitement. "I can't wait to find out," she says, her voice filled with determination.
As the evening progresses, they plan to explore more of the town's history, visiting landmarks and speaking with long-time residents. Jade feels invigorated, ready to uncover the mysteries of the past and forge her own path in the future.
Joey has once again fallen asleep in Sully's lap; Wolf is snuggled up next to them. Michaela and Jade continue to read, sharing passages that stand out to them.
Jade comes across a section about a mysterious figure known as "The Guardian" who helped protect the town during its darkest days. The description of The Guardian resonates with Jade, stirring memories she can't quite grasp.
"Sully, Michaela, look at this," Jade says, pointing to the passage. "Do you know anything about The Guardian?"
Sully reads the passage aloud. "The Guardian was said to be a protector of the town, someone who appeared in times of great need and vanished once the danger was gone."
Michaela looks thoughtful. "I've heard stories, but I always thought they were just legends. Could there be some truth to it?"
Jade's mind races. "I think it's connected to why I'm here. I need to find out more."
The determination in Jade's voice is clear. Michaela and Sully exchange a glance, knowing that they must help her uncover the truth.
To be continued…