“Careful”, I watched Rosalie as she inched closer to where
the water met up to the pier, running her hand through the clear blue water.
I was careful not to lose my balance once I stepped out the backdoor of the house and in to the warm summer sand. Rosalie came to help me as I set the cake in the sand.
'Matches", I reminded myself standing back up.
'Wait, Ms. DeLune"
I moved away my hand as the lighter sprang to life, lighting the four candles.
"Thank you. Okay Rosalie make a wish"
She knelt down closed her eyes tight and blew the out the candles.
"Happy Birthday"
"Happy Birthday, sweetheart", I kissed her four times.
"Can we go in the water now"
"Yes", I said taking her hand as she led me to where the waves crashed on the shore. She let go of my hand and we began collecting seashells untill the sun went down
+++
Mr. Fierro placed his hand in mine and , we walked so we were no longer standing in the chilly water. Rosalie noticing we were moving kept a few paces ahead. After a while a large shell caught her attention, and I took the opportunity to talk without her listening.
It was almost time
“I just can’t ask her to keep this kind of secret”, I said,
“I understand.”, and for the fist time I believed he was lying to me.
“I have to make things right for what my father did, I at least owe her that. Besides you and I will always have forever."
He stopped walking, somewhat angered at my words.
"Don't fool yourself Ms. DeLune, this life. these choices are all that matter"
"I know"
I motioned for Rosalie to follow us to the main road to where the car was sitting. I buckled her into the back seat and walked to the driver's seat starting the car.
I stepped out finding a hug appropriate with Rosalie watching.
"We'll be together sooner than later.", he reminded me.
"I know", I said.
He kissed my hand and closed the passenger door to the old Buick before getting into the driver's seat.
"Bye", Rosalie said from the open window.
"Not good-bye" I said leaning in. "Never good bye"
"I love you, Mommy"
"I love you too, be a good girl"
She smiled and promised me.
I watched untill the car drove out of sight, though I could swear I could still hear her laughter. Hours later I would be on a plane to New York but my heart and soul will always be with my family.
FIN
Author's Note
