on the cheek. “I'll always remember, Gram.”
Elliott took Miles by the hand and said, “Let me show you Chester's
woodshop. You will be able to build so many things there.”
Weakly, Gram grabbed my father’s hand as he walked by.
He released Miles and knelt down beside her.
In a soft whisper, meant only for him, she said, “Protect them all for me. You
must choose to protect them over saving yourself.”
Elliott stood up and kissed Gram on the head. His voice was filled with love
and gratitude. “Thank you, Mae, for everything. I'll not let you down again.”
My grandmother nodded. She struggled to stand, but Cole caught her as she
faltered.
“Mae, if you wanted me to sweep you off your feet, you only had to ask.”
Cole scooped her up before she collapsed.
Too weak to argue, Gram rested her head against his shoulder. She gave him
a fragile smile as he carried her to her room. As he laid her on the bed, she put
her hand on his cheek. “Cole, I need you to take care of my girls. Can you do that for me?”
“Don't talk like that, Gram,” Cole said, his voice breaking with emotion.
“You'll be here to keep me in line for many years to come.”
She gripped his hand desperately. “Can you promise me that you will…when
the time comes, then?”
Cole hugged her tightly. “I promise, Gram.”
“You know you were the grandson I always wanted. Never forget how proud
I have always been of you.” Gram's voice was now barely above a whisper.
“Now, I need to rest. Mara and Meg, come lay beside me.”
We climbed into her bed like we had done many times before. Both of us
rested our heads on her shoulder. Snuggled against her, I strained to hear Gram's words.
“Mara, in my journal, you will find a key to Chester's safe. He left enough money to take care of you for many years if you spend it wisely. Meg, you're still
a little girl. There'll be plenty of time for you to grow up. Can you both do as you
are told and remember everything I taught you?”
Crying softly, Meg nodded.
Unable to speak, I squeezed Gram's hand, confirming I would do as she
asked.
“Good.” Gram closed her eyes, and prayed, “Goddess, watch over my girls
and guide them. I invoke the elements and pray for their guidance and strength.”
I could feel her breathing begin to slow. Holding her tighter, I held back my
tears. “Gram,” I whispered, “I promise to remember everything you taught me.”
Then, she was still. I choked on my sobs as I struggled for composure. She
can’t be gone. I need her with me.
A warmth grew from Gram's body, and I watched in awe as a violet light
filled the room and surrounded us. The hand of the Goddess extended before us,
