《The Godmother's Pen》


 Chapter 1: Unwelcome Guest

    I locked the front gate,staring at all the people walking in front of my store.It is six o''clock in the afternoon, a time when the sun begins to set, and the shadows grow longer. With the night hastily approaching, the streets become busier¡ªnot just with the night crowd, but also with those who thrive under the cover of darkness.


    I''m the owner of a quaint thrift store, modest in size, yet filled with hidden gems and potential treasures people may want to buy. However, the modern-day ''gold diggers'' who frequent my store aren''t lured by the potential future value of an antique vase or the historical intrigue of a vintage cassette player. Instead, these new-age treasure hunters are drawn to the most unique items, those rare finds that stir their desires. They seem willing to go to great lengths, perhaps even to the extent of compromising their own values, in their relentless pursuit of these desirable pieces.


    As I step back into the shelter of my store, snugly tightening my scarf, bracing against the cold breeze that hints at the menacing storm quickly approaching the neighborhood. Despite the looming inclement weather, my resolve for a comforting cup of tea remains unwavering. I flick off the lights, plunging the store into darkness, and head upstairs into my humble abode. The occasional flashes of lightning from the brewing storm offer fleeting illumination, casting eerie shadows around me. I stopped to stare at my own silhouettes dancing hastily through the walls, being immediately startled by the roaring sound of thunder.


    "This is going to be a nasty one."


    I picked up the pace and continued my journey toward the kitchen, my mind singularly focused on one comforting thought ¡ª the prospect of a warm, soothing cup of tea. I let a soothing tune flow serenely out of my lips, a whistle of my pleasant desires that awaited me.


    The old building trembles with each rumble of thunder, the vibrations resonating through every brick in the walls. Despite of the intimidating weather, I carefully prepare my tea, opting for the familiar comfort of Earl Grey. A slight spill over the stove occurs, a trivial mishap that I dismiss with a chuckle ¨C such minor accidents are nothing uncommon for a man of my age.


    Settling onto my couch, I find myself in solitude. Whiskers, has embarked on his own nightly adventure, roaming the neighborhood in search of a lady to entertain. I''m not entirely convinced if he will succeed, considering he looks as old as me.


    "Looks like that darn cat is out chasing tail again," I said, switching on the TV. "I just hope he doesn''t find any."


    As the words leave my mouth, another crack of thunder, louder and much closer than I would prefer, rips through the air. It''s followed by an abrupt blackout, snatching away the electricity and plunging me into a sudden, deep darkness.


    "Darn my luck."


    Suddenly, the eerie silence is shattered by the sound of multiple objects breaking within the building. I''m quick to dismiss the notion that it might be my dumb cat¨Cbecause I knew, he knows better, and I prefer to hold onto that belief. But then, another distinct sound of breaking echoes through the room, unmistakably coming from the store below.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "Whiskers!"


    With caution, I got up from my couch, setting my freshly brewed cup of tea back on the stove. I grabbed my flashlight, noticing the forceful winds beginning to crash on the windows around me.


    I make my way downstairs, the building, once again engulfed in the resounding boom of thunder, adding a dramatic undertone to my descent. This is quickly followed by the onset of a heavy downpour, its relentless drumming against the century-old windows creating a symphony of nature''s fury.


    Inside the store, I swept the beam of my flashlight over each cabinet and table, searching for my mischievous cat. The light revealed some ceramic vases knocked to the floor, now shattered into countless pieces.


    "Whiskers?"


    A fierce bolt of lightning streaks across the sky, briefly illuminating the entire store, chasing away the shadows. In this momentary flash of light, I continue to trace the path of destruction, watching my treasures being decimated by a cat drunk in blind love.


    I grew anxious at the scene unfolding in front of me, engulfing my mind in a sudden burst of anger. "I swear to you, annoying furball. You will get the boot out of my store when I finally find you."


    But it seems that I followed a different kind of thief. Whiskers might be unpredictable at times, but he was not the culprit of the devastation inside my store. The vases were randomly selected from the shelves and thrown at a wooden wall.


    "There''s no way, this cat will be able to find my secret room," I said, looking at the damage on the wall.


    Hidden from view, I have a small, secret room ¨C a place where I keep my most valued possessions safe. The vases, which have been on the shelves since I acquired the store, now lay in ruins, used as tools to break the aged wall that concealed my hidden chamber. Among these possessions, there is an instrument of immeasurable value, tucked away, far from the reach of those driven by greed.


    I carefully step over the fragments of wood scattered on the floor. Even though the entrance to my secret room has been compromised, I know that my most treasured item will not be easy to find. It''s hidden well, requiring more than just breaking down a wall to discover.


    "Hello?"


    As lightning flashed once more across the room, its brief illumination revealed an unwelcome figure lurking beneath the stairs. I fixed my gaze on the intruder, catching the silhouette of someone hastily retreating from the sudden burst of light.


    "There is no point in hiding, I can see you now."


    The intruder is not particularly tall, and evidently not wise enough to consider the consequences of breaking into my store. I maintain my composure, observing as the figure slowly moves around her hiding spot beneath the stairs.


    "I don''t want any problems." The young female voice said.


    I let loose a chuckle, finding her comment amusing. "Well, you''ve certainly got one now."


    I move cautiously towards the source of the female voice, seeking to discern her face in a building enveloped in darkness. The girl, sensing my approach, retreated away from the intermittent flashes of light, deliberately concealing herself deeper into the shadows.


    "I''m sorry about the vases, I bet they were expensive."


    Her attempt to engage in small talk about the vases seemed like a tactic to delay facing the repercussions of her actions. But I wasn''t distracted by her diversion, my eyes recording every detail of this mysterious girl.


    "What are you doing here?" I asked.


    "I was looking for it, but I couldn''t find it. It is of extreme importance that I find it."


    As I step closer to the intruder, a quick glance at her hands confirms she poses no immediate threat to me or my store. Yet, what truly intrigues me more is her intent. The storm raging outside is severe and dangerous ¨C it''s hard to comprehend why she would be so determined to search for something under such dangerous weather conditions.


    "The old lady said you have it here, hidden away from human eyes. But I''m not like everyone else. Others seek it for profit, but not me."


    "Oh really? If is not for money, then why are you here?"


    "I need to find it... to save my brother''s life."

 Chapter 2: Questions

Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

 Chapter 3: The Rumors About the Godmother

    Her determination left me thinking. If I were in her situation, I would probably have done the same thing. I have experienced firsthand what it means to share a bond with someone you love, a bond that sometimes drives us to act irrationally.


    Having tended to her wound, I began to gather the rest of the bandages and place them back inside the first aid kit. Her eyes traced every move I made as if trying to understand the reasons behind my kindness. She rose from the couch and followed me to the kitchen.


    "Are you upset with me for what I did to your store?"


    "No. The vases are already broken; there''s no point in becoming angry about it. I have a vague idea why you did it, at one point in my life, I was your age too. How about we move away from the subject, and focus on surviving the night? It''s going to be a cold one; let me get you a warm blanket."


    I turned around and walked away, immediately hearing a soft whimper coming from her. I glanced over my shoulder and saw tears streaming down Makayla''s face. "I just wanted to help my brother. I never meant to cause any damage to your store."


    I walked back to her and with a smile, I rested my hand over her head. "You have any idea how long those cheap vases were on the shelf? Since I bought the store 40 years ago. In my book, you just did me a favor."


    I fetched a woolen blanket from the closet, intending to keep her comfortable until the storm passed.


    "Here, this will keep you warm."


    "Thank you," she said, grabbing the blanket from my hands.


    "Care for a cup of tea? I just made a pot ten minutes ago."


    With a smile widening on my face, I poured an extra cup of tea and handed it to Makayla. "I''m sorry to hear about your brother. I''m sure he deserves to live a prosperous life. But there are things beyond our control, and death is one of them."


    She took a sip and then placed the cup gently on the table.


    "I''ve let my brother down. I promised him I''d find a way to help him. Instead, I''ve just made a fool of myself," she said, her voice filled with disappointment.


    "The boundary between life and death is delicate and elusive. The artifact you''re searching for isn''t meant to be discovered," I said, rising from the couch. "Would you like some cookies?"


    I headed to the pantry and retrieved a plate of cookies, a gift from an elderly woman who lives in the building across the street. While I often found her conversation unengaging, her cookies were an entirely different matter. For a woman of her age, her baking skills were exceptional.


    "Here," I said, setting the plate of cookies on the table. "These should bring you a bit of joy."


    "Thank you."


    She picked up a cookie, looking at it closely. After taking a bite, her eyes lit up. "Wow, these are delicious!"


    "Indeed, they are. Her baking skills are second to none."


    "Would it be okay if I took a few for my brother?"


    I slid the plate towards her, "Of course, go right ahead."


    Makayla carefully picked a handful of cookies and tucked them into her front pockets. "Thanks again."


    The rain continued its relentless assault against the windows, and a chilling draft swept through the room, extinguishing the flickering candle flames.


    "Oh, the lights are out again. Hold on tight, I''ll get some matches."


    Opening a drawer, I retrieved the matchbox. As I struck a match to light the candles, my thoughts drifted to the similarities between my own past and the situation of Makayla''s brother.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    "Where do you live Makayla?"


    She paused mid-bite, "At Oxford''s House."


    "You are an orphan?"


    "Yes, both my brother and me. He''s been under medical care for over a year now. Playing with the other kids at the orphanage is too much for him; he just doesn''t have the energy. According to the nurse, his health is expected to deteriorate over time. But at least he isn''t alone¡ªI make sure to visit him every day."


    "He''s been sick that long? You said he is twelve years old?"


    "Unfortunately, yes. He is my younger brother. It pains me to see him confined to that bed."


    Sensing it was the right moment, I decided to reveal the true nature of the artifact to Makayla. It wasn''t a tool for extending life, but rather a gift from a certain being, a guide for those transitioning to the next stage of their existence.


    A smile flickered across my face as memories flooded in. "I remember the first time I saw her. It was all so baffling. I sensed something unusual occurring around me. But there I was, only twelve and battling a terrible illness. She was the one bright spot¡ªthe only one who would come out to play with me despite my circumstances."


    "Who is she?"


    "She is known as ''The Godmother,''" I said, settling back into my favorite chair, holding an old Teddy bear in my hands. "She isn''t exactly a person who owns the artifact, per se. but she could manifest herself in various forms, and for me, it took the shape of an old woman. She acts as a guardian and a guide, especially for children who are transitioning from one world to the next. Her presence is both comforting and solemn, a beacon for those on their final journey."


    "The Godmother? Then the stories are not true? --A writing artifact with magical ink that could cheat death? it really doesn''t exist?"


    "The artifact is a pen, and it does exist. But its purpose and the legends that have grown around it are far from the truth. It''s not a tool for deferring death."


    I could sense the disappointment and confusion in Makayla''s eyes. It was clear that the myths about the Godmother''s Pen had filled her with false hopes and misconceptions about how she might help her brother.


    "It does not grant you more time. Then, what does it do?"


    "My encounter with The Godmother was a unique experience, not like the stories told by the old ladies at the orphanage. From what I''ve read and heard about others'' experiences globally, the pen often appears with a count on its dial of less than 10."


    "A count?"


    "The pen has a three-wheel dial. When you write with The Godmother''s Pen, it counts down the words as you write with it. When I had it, the dial was at max capacity. I could use the pen to write 999 words."


    Makayla looked at me with enchanted eyes, the moment I started to talk about the pen.


    "Every word is gold. That''s what the blind lady said to me. It was hard for me to understand what she meant at first." Makayla said, drinking from her cup of tea.


    "Long ago, there was a belief that children suffering from terminal illnesses were watched over by angels. Some called it a myth; others find the tales of the Godmother to be a blatant lie, a fictitious story made by people. A fragile soul in a fragile body deserving divine protection. From there, stories began to emerge about an angel who would comfort and entertain these children as they neared their end. Seeing The Godmother is a sign ¨C it means that one doesn''t have much time left."


    As Makayla''s words sank in, a deluge of memories flooded my mind, each recalling my unique encounter with The Godmother. It felt as if I had been specifically chosen by her to bear witness and relay this tale.


    "I understand now. Even if I wanted to help my brother, I would never be able to see her."


    She had come to realize the partial truths in the stories she''d heard. "I''m sorry, Makayla. Your heart is in the right place, but trying to interfere with the natural course of death is a fool''s errand."


    Makayla rose from her seat and approached the window, her gaze lost in the rain-soaked world outside.


    "I wish I could be with my brother right now." She said, her fingers tracing the path of the raindrops on the windowpane.


    "I wouldn''t advise running eight blocks to the orphanage in this weather. I understand your concern, but I assure you, he''ll be there waiting for you in the morning."


    "Sam, ¡ªDo you think I''m a stupid girl?"


    "No, I think you''re an incredibly brave sister. I can''t say I''ve been in your shoes; I was an only child."


    She returned to her chair, wrapping herself in the blanket I had given her, cocooning her body as if seeking comfort in its warmth.


    "Well, I believe you''re right, Makayla. It''s time for us to get some rest."


    At my words, Makayla abruptly threw the blanket off her head, her eyes wide with sudden realization.


    "Wait, you said that you had an encounter with The Godmother?"


    "Correct," I said, with a smile.


    "Then how are you alive?"


    "You''re a bit slow on the uptake, kid. My interaction with The Godmother was unlike anything I''d ever experienced. While others dreaded her presence, I found myself longing for her company every day."


    At my words, Makayla sat up straight, her interest reignited. "Can you tell me how you came to have the pen?"


    I paused, realizing I might have shared too much. The night was deepening, and outside, the storm continued its relentless assault on the neighborhood.


    "Alright, but let''s have more tea first," I said, rising from my chair. A distinct feeling stirred within me, perhaps a sense of excitement at the prospect of sharing my story for the first time.

 Chapter 4: The Visit

This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

 Chapter 5: A Wish from Lollipop Girl

    I felt my energy fade away, as I got closer to the stairs outside my bedroom door. Peering through the balusters, I was desperately trying to piece together the puzzle of my parents'' conversations, knowing it all revolved around me. Right at that moment, between the tension and whispers, a distinct sound caught my attention ¨C the unmistakable crinkle of a lollipop wrapper.


    "Adults are difficult to understand." A voice chimed in unexpectedly.


    Startled, I turned to see a girl standing beside me. She was dressed in an unusual white outfit, and her sudden appearance was as surprising as it was mysterious. She unwrapped a lollipop, took a lick, and then wrapped it back up. "Don''t you agree?"


    Her voice was soothing, and there was a comforting warmth about her presence as if she were someone, I''d known all my life. It was oddly reassuring in a situation filled with so much uncertainty and fear.


    "Don''t look at me like that." She said as she appeared to have a rhythmic routine of unwrapping, licking, and rewrapping. "We should get going, or you''re going to be caught."


    "I''m not doing anything wrong."


    "Eavesdropping...remember the last time you did that?"


    The memory of that previous incident, when my mother caught me eavesdropping, flashed through my mind. Reflecting on it for a moment, I decided to heed the advice of the mysterious girl and retreat to my room.


    For a brief moment, in the distraction of her presence and our interaction, I momentarily lost sight of my own frailty. Emboldened, I tried to rise, aiming to make my way back to my bed. However, it wasn''t long before the harsh reality dawned on me¡ªmy strength was not sufficient, and I found myself grappling with my limitations once again.


    "I think you need some help." The strange girl said, offering me her lollipop.


    "Please hold this for me."


    With surprising ease, the girl took hold of my waist and lifted me. Her strength was unexpected, carrying me back to my room as if I were as light as a pillow. Gently, she placed me on my bed and tucked me in with care.


    "Be a good boy." She took the lollipop off my hand and unwrapped it. "Be good to your parents, they are a rare breed."


    My eyes were drawn to a shiny brooch adorning her hair. It featured an angel playing a trumpet, beautifully crafted in gold.


    "I like your angel."


    She responded with a wide smile.


    Suddenly, the distinctive squeal of the wooden stairs caught my attention. That sound was unmistakable ¨C even with the door closed, I could always tell when someone was coming up the stairs.


    "Your mom is coming. Act normal."


    As my mother entered the room, the mysterious girl with the lollipop took a seat in the chair by the window. She continued to enjoy her candy, seemingly unnoticed by my mother who was focused on adjusting my blankets.


    "Hey, Sammy." My mother said softly, assuming I was asleep. She moved around the bed, still completely oblivious to the girl''s presence.


    I lay there, pretending to be asleep. A part of me desperately wanted to open my eyes and introduce my mother to this intriguing new friend, but I couldn''t. It was as if I was under a spell, captivated by the enigmatic girl with golden hair.


    "Sweet dreams. We have a lot to do tomorrow. Try to get some rest," my mother whispered, taking a seat in the far corner of my bed.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Shortly thereafter, my father made his way into the room, treading softly under the assumption that I was asleep. Upon entering, he observed my mother, who was quietly shedding tears in the corner of my bed.


    "Oh, Martha."


    My mother wiped the tears from her eyes and lowered her head. My father embraced her, noticing her voice was laced with despair. "I don''t know what to do, Ray. I''ve reached out to everyone I can think of, even that strange lady, hoping for a glimmer of hope. But everything I try seems to end the same way."


    My father sat down beside my mother, wrapping his arms around her in a continuous comforting embrace. "You''re an incredible mother, Martha. There''s no doubt about that. We will never give up on Sammy. We''ll find the answer we''re praying for; I promise."


    After placing a gentle kiss on my mother''s forehead, my dad solidified their shared resolve. He gently helped her to her feet, and together they cast one last glance in my direction before quietly exiting the room, closing the door behind them.


    In the newfound silence, the strange girl stood up from the chair. "I told you; they are a rare breed. You won''t find people as caring as them."


    "I know. My dad has always been very caring and understanding. I used to play basketball right outside that window. But now, I can''t anymore. My energy just fades away in a matter of minutes. My dad always tries to be positive, saying that sports don''t have to be physical. He''s been encouraging me to find a different hobby, something less demanding. Like chess, for example. It''s his favorite game, but it''s not really for me."


    "I can help with you that."


    At first, I was puzzled by her comment. "Help me with what?"


    "Your game. Didn''t you want to play basketball one more time?"


    "I wish I could, but it''s just not possible right now. I can hardly get out of bed, and there''s clearly something seriously wrong with me. My parents are trying to get medical help, but until then, we''re all in the dark. Or maybe they just not telling me everything."


    "I can help you fulfill your wish, at least for a short while. I''ll make it happen if it brings you happiness."


    With Excitement in my voice, I agreed to her offer. "Yes! What do I have to do?"


    Her response was unexpected and bizarre. "Well, you''ll have to let me eat one of your arms."


    The strange girl burst out laughing. " I am joking!" she said.


    Her unusual request had taken me by surprise, as any twelve-year-old would naturally take such a bizarre proposition seriously. But her laughter following the joke lightened the mood.


    The girl unwraps her lollipop. She took a lick of it and passed it to me.


    "One lick will be enough for ten minutes of super energy!"


    As she extended her hand offering me the lollipop, I raised my head for a closer look. It appeared quite ordinary, similar to the ones you''d find in any store, adorned with a spiral of green and gold. Yet, I hesitated for a moment. When I took the candy into my hand, it unexpectedly began to radiate a soft light.


    "Come on! Do you want to play basketball or not? I promise I will take it easy on you."


    I considered her offer carefully, aware of the growing fatigue in my hand just from holding the round candy. This reminder of my limited strength made me realize I didn''t have time to waste on indecision. With a sense of cautious anticipation, I slowly extended my tongue and gave the lollipop a tentative lick.


    "Nothing is happening," I said.


    Just as I voiced my doubt, an unexpected surge of energy burst through me. It was like an electric current invigorating every muscle in my body. The sensation was astonishing; my feet, which had felt so weak and unreliable, suddenly seemed healthy and strong.


    " Oh my God! What was that!" I said in astonishment.


    "Care to play a basketball game with me?"


    Without a second thought, I responded enthusiastically, "Definitely!"


    She grabbed my hand and helped me stand up.


    "How does it feel?"


    I found myself at a loss for words. The sensation of vitality and strength was overwhelming, leaving me speechless. Instead of trying to articulate my feelings, I chose not to waste a single second of this miraculous gift. The strange girl climbed over the chair, opening the window.


    She led me to the open window, extending her hand invitingly. "Come with me, nothing is going to happen to you."


    Eagerly, I followed her, still marveling at the surge of energy within me. I took her hand, perhaps a bit too firmly, still adjusting to this unexpected strength.


    "Ouch, that hurt! Not really, but you''re stronger than you think. Well, I wouldn''t be able to tell anyway." The strange girl laughed. "Jump with me, Sammy!"


    The whole experience felt surreal. Just minutes ago, I was frail and weak, barely able to move around in my room. Now, here I was, leaping from the second floor of my house and dashing towards the basketball court with a vigor I hadn''t felt in ages.


    I grabbed the basketball dribbling and running around the court. In those moments, I forgot about everything else ¨C my illness, the limitations it imposed, the constant fatigue. It was my time to revel in what I loved most, unhampered by my physical condition. I shot from the three-point line, leaping with a vigor that could rival any basketball player. I was living a dream, a reality I had only imagined in my wildest fantasies.

 Chapter 6: Reflections

    I couldn''t believe the experience I had.


    I took careful aim at the basket, aware of how my warm breath turned into vapor as it made contact with the cold air around me. With a steady release, I watched the ball glide through the frigid breeze, following its trajectory as it sailed toward the hoop. The ball found its target flawlessly, landing right in the center of the net. The thrill of successfully making that three-point shot entirely by myself was exhilarating.


    The girl with the golden hair, witnessing this small triumph, quickly retrieved the ball and threw it back at me. "How is the game so far?"


    "It''s awesome, I can''t explain it! You don''t have an idea what this means to me."


    But the miraculous burst of energy began to fade. As I crossed the five-minute mark, I could feel the vigor that had fueled me, gradually diminishing. A sense of heaviness started to return to my legs, a familiar and disheartening reminder of my usual state.


    "What''s going on?" I said, noticing I wasn''t able to move my legs.


    Realizing that my extraordinary burst of energy was fading faster than expected, I felt a wave of panic within me. "Wait, please, just a little longer!"


    The girl with golden hair opened the wrapper of her candy and ate the lollipop in one bite. "I have very little time left. I''ll whisper to your parents that you need help."


    "No! Please wait!"


    As quickly as she had appeared, the girl with the golden hair vanished, taking with her the miraculous energy she had bestowed upon me. In a matter of moments, the extraordinary vitality I had been experiencing, evaporated. I found myself collapsing onto the cold, hard surface of the basketball court, my body rendered immobile once again.


    Only a minute after the mysterious girl had vanished, my dad came rushing out to the court, his expression flooded with confusion and surprise.


    "Samuel!"


    He immediately noticed my shivering and wrapped his arms around me in an attempt to provide some warmth. "You''re freezing! How on earth did you end up out here in the middle of the night?!"


    I found myself at a loss for words in response to my father''s question. The events of the night had left me in a state of confusion, struggling to separate reality from what seemed like an incredible dream.


    But amidst the confusion and the surreal nature of the night''s events, one thing stood clear and undeniable in my heart. The encounter with the strange girl, mysterious as it was, had been the best thing that had ever happened to me in a long time.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    The next morning, I awoke to the gentle touch of sunlight streaming through my window, its rays softly warming my face. As I attempted to move, I realized the warmth in my bed wasn''t just from the sun; it was also from the presence of my parents, who had fallen asleep around me. They must have been worried that I might attempt another midnight escapade and try to attempt another game of basketball.


    I remained thoughtful, still wondering about the events of the previous night. They seemed almost too surreal to believe. Yet, the vivid memory of playing basketball, those exhilarating five minutes, were undeniably real.


    The movement of my mother stirred me from my thoughts. She shifted, inadvertently pulling the blanket away from me. A strand of hair fell across her face, brushing her lips. Startled, she quickly changed position, her eyes instinctively searching for me.


    "Sammy. Are you ok?"


    I greeted my mother with the biggest smile I could muster. A part of me wondered if she would ever believe the extraordinary story of what really happened last night if I were to tell her. But before I could dwell on that thought further, my father suddenly stood up from the bed.


    Glancing at his watch, he jumped up in a rush, quickly exiting the room as if reminded of something urgent.


    "Where is Dad going in such a hurry?"


    My mother turned towards me, replying to my question with a smile. "Today is the 1st and it is Friday. Remember what happens every other Friday?"


    "It''s time to go shopping?"


    I already knew the answer to her question. Part of me hoped that my dad''s haste was due to an exciting outing planned for us. It was indeed a day out, but not the kind of exhilarating adventure I had hoped for.


    My father enters the room, fixing his shirt, and holding a toothbrush inside his mouth. "You have an appointment with the doctor, Sammy. these will be the final tests."


    The excitement of the previous night''s adventure had momentarily made me forget about the realities of my health situation. Being reminded of the doctor''s appointment brought me back to those realities. While the idea of leaving the house wasn''t particularly bothersome, the thought of what awaited me at the doctor''s office was less appealing. The frequent blood tests, the phrase I had grown to dread ¡ª "we need another sample of his blood" ¡ª echoed in my mind. It was a part of my routine that I particularly disliked.


    I became weary of the discomfort in my arms so much, that I waged a battle against those needles. I made things difficult for my parents whenever they started to get prepared to make another trip to the hospital.


    "It''s cold outside. I have to warm up the van." My father said.


    "Go on, sweetie. I will be ready soon."


    I had a strong aversion to each trip to the doctor, unwilling to have my arms touched once more. However, as time passed, the illness became stronger than my determination to stand up for myself.


    It felt like you were a passenger in your own body, watching someone else determine what you''ll do without your consent, every day of your life.


    That morning, my legs refused to cooperate. My arms lacked the strength to support my body''s weight, and suddenly, much like lightning striking a tree, the need to use the bathroom became extremely important.


    "I have to use the bathroom. Is urgent, please."


    Grasping the situation, my mother shouted from my room, "Ray, we need your help!"


    He quickly made his way around my bed in response to my request. He lifted me and carried me out of my room and into the hallway.


    My father was in his late forties, and my mother was seven years younger than him. He would always make the arrangements for me, whenever I needed to shower or use the bathroom. Typically, I could wait until I reached the toilet, but that particular morning, I couldn''t hold it any longer. The sensation came abruptly, and I ended up losing control while in my father''s arms.

 Chapter 7: Pirate Boy

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

 Chapter 9: The Iron Stallion

If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

 Chapter 10: Entering Hopeland

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

 Chapter 11: Helpful Angels

    While I waited for my parents to assist me out of the van, an unexpected change occurred around me. Without any prior indication, a vast shadow crept over, diminishing the sunlight and casting an eerie atmosphere around me. Towering in front of me was a giant with a single eye, frightening and formidable. Its weapon, a hefty piece of tree trunk, rested over its shoulder, adding to its intimidating presence.


    The giant knelt before me, his single eye meticulously scrutinizing every detail of my skin, which infused my heart with fear under his immense shadow. Frozen in place, I could only stare back, utterly transfixed by the intensity of his gaze, which didn''t waver for even a second.


    "Are you a new patient?" the giant suddenly asked, his deep voice breaking the spell. In that instant, reality snapped back into focus, the illusion of the giant dissolving to reveal the true scene: the tall hospital building towering above. Standing in front of me was not the mythical creature I had imagined, but rather a friendly individual with a charismatic presence and a warm smile.


    "We''re here to see Dr. Deveraux. If you want to help, you can push his chair inside," My mother said.


    The young man responded with a wide, welcoming smile. "Absolutely."


    "Come on, Sammy," Both my parents worked together to maneuver the wheelchair, carefully guiding me down the ramp from the van. My mother took a moment to adjust my hair, giving me a warm smile as she did so. Then, with a sense of trust, she handed over the handles of the wheelchair to the helpful young man.


    "Do not worry Sammy, the doctors here are excellent people. They will figure out what''s wrong and fix it."


    My father retrieved a backpack from the van and then followed the helpful young man who was pushing the wheelchair towards the hospital entrance. As we approached, the doors slid open automatically, a feature I found quite fascinating at that time and not something I encountered often.


    "That was cool. Let''s go in and out again."


    The helpful man didn''t skip a beat. He started making playful race car noises and began to ''drive'' the wheelchair in and out of the hospital''s front door, much like a car on a racetrack. We repeated this amusing routine a few times, each round bringing a burst of laughter and joy.


    After a few laps, my mother, watching our playful antics, decided it was time to get serious. "Alright, racecar drivers, that''s enough fun for now. We''re ready to check in."


    The helpful man extended his hand for a handshake, his eyes twinkling with the joy of our recent fun. "That was super fun. I hope we can do it again soon."


    As I made an effort to lift my hand to reciprocate his handshake, a small detail caught my eye. There, on the top of his hand, was a small tattoo. It was an image of an angel playing a trumpet, curiously similar to the charm I had seen before on Pirate Boy and Lollipop Girl. He walked away, giving me one last smile over his shoulder, leaving me with the impression that he might be related to all the kids who have visited me in the past couple of days.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    As we moved forward, a nurse approached us. She was very young and beautiful, with a smile that was instantly captivating. However, what truly caught my attention was the angelic pin on the collar of her shirt. This small detail intrigued me, especially as I started to observe many people in the hospital wearing similar pins, leading me to speculate that they might signify a special connection or shared purpose among the staff.


    "Welcome to Hopeland. My name is Angela, and I''ll be assisting you with your son today."


    Flooded with curiosity, I thought of exploring my suspicion about the connection between the nurse, Pirate Boy, the girl with the lollipop, and the cowgirl. I attempted to catch Angela''s attention, but she seemed occupied talking to my parents. The clues were in plain sight, walking with every person in the reception ¨C they all seemed to be associated with angels.


    "Thank you, Miss Angela," my father said, gratefully handing over the control of the wheelchair to her.


    As Angela turned towards me, she offered a radiant smile. "And you must be Samuel, correct?"


    I hesitated before responding, half-expecting her to mention her connection with the last three kids who had visited me ¨C the ones I suspected were linked to the angels. But she didn''t mention anything of the sort. I stared at her intently before responding to her question.


    "You can call me Sammy."


    My attention was still captivated by the angelic pin on her collar. I wondered if my eyes were deceiving me. The sudden appearance of all the kids in my house wearing angel jewelry left me with many unanswered questions. In my mind, I felt the need to ask the nurse if she shared any relation with all these kids. Yet, for some reason, I found myself unable to directly ask about them.


    Each time I tried to formulate these questions about them, I found myself hesitating. In the end, I chose a more straightforward approach. "I love your pin. Where did you get it?"


    Angela headed towards the reception counter and picked up a brochure, which she handed to me. The brochure detailed a group of people dedicated to assisting the hospital, a group of volunteers known as ''Helpful Angels''.


    "The angel pin is a symbol of their organization. Everyone in the hospital wears it to show support for the incredible work they do. Don''t you think it''s really cute?"


    "Yeah, it is."


    At that moment, my earlier assumptions were challenged. I had thought the angel symbol indicated the presence or influence of the Godmother, a connection to the mysterious encounters I''d had.


    The nurse wheeled me into a small room and closed the door behind us. She stood in front of me, performing an unexpected action. She stomped on the floor twice, gave me a very serious stare, and then broke into a smile.


    "I am going to need your help, Soldier!" she declared, lifting her arm in a salute before winking at me. Her sudden change in behavior left me feeling quite bewildered.


    Realizing she was engaging in a bit of pretend play, I immediately decided to play along. The chance to participate in a game, even in this setting, was a welcome diversion.


    "Captain!" I said, returning her salute with enthusiasm.


    "These are dangerous lands, I tell you. I''ve been in this area for a while. Our first mission is to make it out of this cave unharmed. And to do that, we need to check our vitals!"


    I loved the way she interacted with me. It showed me that I didn''t need to fear coming to a doctor''s appointment. Her playful attitude made the visit extremely fun.

 Chapter 12: Feeling Deaths Grip

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

 Chapter 13: The Yellow Envelope

    While feeling completely consumed by the terrifying experience of drowning, I abruptly awoke, desperately gasping for breath in a hopeless battle with my mind. Startled and disoriented, I instinctively brought my hands to my chest, immediately noticing the cables connected to me. The steady, rhythmic sound of a machine close by caught my attention ¨C it was monitoring and counting each beat of my heart.


    "You are awake," Angela said.


    Seeing her after the vivid dream, filled me with an immense sense of relief. I showed her the biggest smile I could manage, grateful to be back to reality inside of a hospital room. Curiously, I noticed that Angela''s behavior was different from before. She seemed more serious and concerned, lacking the playful energy she had during our earlier interaction. It was clear that she was worried.


    "My parents?" I asked.


    "I''ll bring them in. For now, just rest. That''s all you need to do."


    As Nurse Angela exited the room, I was left alone with my thoughts. My mind inevitably drifted back to the vivid dream, thinking, if there was any deeper meaning or symbolism behind it.


    Suddenly, the calmness of the room was shattered when the door burst open. My mother hurried in, her face streaked with tears, reflecting the depth of her distress. The frantic way she moved clearly conveyed the immense fear and anxiety she was feeling at that moment.


    "Sammy! I thought I lost you forever. Oh God, thank you!"


    Following closely behind, my father and Nurse Angela entered the room. As they did, I managed to move my hands and wrapped them around my mother, holding her as tightly as I could. The warmth of her embrace was incredibly comforting.


    My mother wrapped me in her arms, as I watched tears trickling down my father''s cheeks. The tangible love shown by my parents in their every gesture effectively dissolved the eerie sense of solitude that had pervaded my dream.


    As I reflected on the dream, I realized that in it, I had reached a point of acceptance, a resignation to my fate. I had let go of the aspirations and the determination to prove to myself that I held onto in reality for as long as I could.


    The following morning, my father came into the room. It was early; my still-warm breakfast plate had been placed on the side table. He held a box in his hands, from which he pulled out a board game. Chess was his favorite and given that he was likely to spend a considerable amount of time here with me, he seemed to have decided that we might as well pass the time playing his preferred game. My mother sat on the couch in the room, and immediately fell asleep.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    During our chess game, I came to terms with the inevitability of defeat. My dad was a formidable opponent in chess, his strategy was complex and often elusive. He didn''t rely on the power of the major pieces; instead, his most effective moves often involved the smaller ones.


    My father carefully maneuvered his rook, moving it diagonally to the left and positioning it directly across from my king. He gently held the chess piece between his fingers, considering the move with a strategic eye. As soon as he confidently released the piece onto its new square, he leaned in and whispered, "Check," indicating that my king was now under direct threat in the game.


    At this stage of the game, my knights were immobilized, my rooks were out of play, and my king was trapped in a corner. It was clear that in fewer than three moves, my position would collapse under his strategy, signaling the end of the game.


    His strategy involved more than just the movements on the board. One of his tactics included resting his index finger on the piece he was considering moving. He wouldn''t immediately let it go; instead, he would tap on the top of the piece while maintaining a fixed stare at me. It was a distraction technique, using his hand to divert my attention and cloud my ability to anticipate his next move. In response, I moved my king backward to the only spot where it couldn''t be attacked.


    "You know, what is your biggest mistake, Sam?"


    As he posed the question, then, he advanced his queen deep into my territory. "You lack patience; Check Mate." His words came as he finalized his decisive move, sealing the game''s outcome.


    That day, my mind wasn''t really on the chess game; it was preoccupied with the dream I had experienced the previous night and the lingering question of why we were still in the hospital. My understanding of my medical condition, whether it was curable or not, was limited. Being just twelve years old at the time, my attention easily drifted, captivated by any distraction, even an uneven game of chess.


    "Dad, can we go to Spencer''s after we''re done here?"


    He frowned in response. "Kids and Video games these days. Those things are going to corrupt the future generations."


    After what felt like an unending series of needle pricks and encounters with irritable nurses, the doctor entered the room, knocking gently at the door, and holding a yellow envelope.


    "Good morning. I need a word with both parents, please."


    The expression on the doctor''s face seemed to convey a message before he even spoke. The combination of sadness in his eyes and the forced smile suggested that the contents of the yellow envelope were not positive. He partially closed the door, creating a space for a private conversation with my parents, yet leaving a small opening.


    And then, the expected occurred.


    Driven by curiosity, I found myself eager to overhear the conversation between my parents and the doctor. Despite my significant weakness and the encumbrance of the cables attached to my chest, I was determined to use the remnants of my strength to eavesdrop on their discussion.


    Slowly, I detached the cables from my chest, causing the machine to emit noises that were unfamiliar to me. Carefully, I got out of bed and made my way towards the door. I was torn between whether to press my ear against it to hear better or to peer through the crack to witness the meeting. However, a nagging feeling inside me suggested that I shouldn''t be eavesdropping.


    Despite the warning voice in my head, my curiosity proved too strong to ignore. I resolved to satisfy my need to know, disregarding my own reservations. But my efforts and the resolve I had mustered came crashing down, the moment I saw the first tear escape my mother''s eyes.

 Chapter 14: First Encounter

Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

 Chapter 15: The Winning Price

    Lying in bed, I found it impossible to close my eyes and rest. The silence of the room, rather than being soothing, seemed to amplify the loud thoughts unleashing chaos in my mind. I delved deep into my own thoughts, replaying and analyzing the events of the past week. As a twelve-year-old, the concept of death was something I didn''t fully comprehend. This internal conflict was compounded by the unusual experiences I had encountered ¨C interacting with children that apparently only I could see.


    Witnessing my parents in distress over a situation they couldn''t control was incredibly heart-wrenching. Seeking to divert my thoughts from the pain around me, I found myself reflecting on the old lady who had visited me. I remember the pleasant time we shared during her presence in this room, which brought a measure of comfort amid the current difficulties.


    In my mind, I continued to remember the time we spent together, the one person who brought me peace with just a smile. Initially, I had thought that elderly people might be dull, but she was different. Despite not knowing her name, her presence was far from boring. She possessed a captivating smile and a personality that could instantly warm your heart.


    Suddenly, I sensed a presence in the room, an eerie feeling as if someone was watching me from the shadows. My thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a voice.


    "You shouldn''t think about other people like that." An old lady said, appearing near my bed out of the dimness. "It''s distracting how much noise you''re making on the other side."


    The lady standing near my bed was entirely different from the one I had been thinking of; she had dark skin. Despite her different appearance, there was a familiar warmth emanating from her, similar to the comforting presence of the previous lady.


    "Who are you?" I asked, more as a matter of formality than genuine curiosity. Deep down, there was a sense of recognition, a feeling that I already knew who she was. Yet, I wanted to confirm my intuition, to ensure I wasn''t mistaking her for someone else.


    "Do I really have to answer that question?"


    "You look different from before."


    "Oh!" She let out a light giggle, acknowledging the observation. "I have been doing this for quite some time. I can''t keep the same image for too long. I am old, you know?"


    As she smiled, I noticed the golden necklace she was wearing. It had a pendant of an angel playing a trumpet, strikingly similar to the one Pirate Boy had worn. This resemblance caught my attention and awakened my curiosity, leading me to wonder if there was a connection between her and the Pirate boy. Despite this curiosity, I hesitated, unable to voice my question about any potential relationship they might have.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    My attention momentarily shifted away from the mysterious woman to my parents, who were sound asleep on the couch next to my bed. "My parents... they might hear you."


    She glanced over at them, her face reflecting a sense of compassion. "They are going through a lot. The pain in their hearts is evident, and it saddens me. But at the same time, I''m happy for you. They are the kind of parents that are rare to find these days. Your mother, in particular, has such a strong spirit. Unfortunately, they cannot see this charming lady. It''s only you who can see me."


    "Why I am the only one? My mother would love you if she saw you."


    "I understand, but the answer is simple; you are almost at the finish line."


    Her words were puzzling to me, yet they reignited my interest in resolving unfinished matters. "Are you here to finish the guessing game with me?"


    "Only if you can guess my name in 2 minutes. We Godmothers have our bedtimes as you kids do."


    With only two minutes to guess her name, the challenge initially seemed daunting. However, the hint she provided was a crucial clue. It sparked a realization in my mind, making the answer suddenly appear clear and obvious.


    "The Godmother! That''s your name."


    Her reaction was one of playful shock. "Oh, my goodness!" she said, covering her mouth with her hands. "You did it, Sammy!!"


    I couldn''t contain my laughter at her reaction, but I quickly quieted down, remembering that my parents were asleep in the same room. Despite the ease with which she revealed the answer, there was still a sense of joy and achievement in having guessed her name correctly.


    "I am a woman of my word, Sammy. Here is my gift to you."


    As she extended her hand towards me, a bright, otherworldly glow emanated from it. The room transformed before my eyes, lights flickering and papers swirling in a sudden gust of wind that seemed to originate from her. It was as if her presence brought a touch of magic into the room.


    Then, as the wind calmed and the papers settled, something extraordinary happened. In her hand materialized a peculiar fountain pen. It was a striking object, black in color, elegantly accented with gold adornments.


    "Wow. What is that?"I asked, fascinated by the elegant pen she held.


    "This is one of my personal favorites, The Godmother''s Pen. With this pen, you can write your heart''s desire and it will come true."


    I was completely mesmerized by the pen, its delicate details capturing my full attention. I took a closer look and noticed a unique feature: a three-wheel dial on the pen displaying the number nine hundred and ninety-nine. Intrigued, I felt compelled to ask her about its purpose.


    "What are the dials and the numbers for?"


    She responded with a warm smile and gently handed the pen to me. "Every word is gold. Once you have written a word with the pen, the dials will count down, until it reaches zero."


    "I can write anything I want, and it will come true?"


    "Yes, but there are rules."


    Her confirmation that the pen could make written desires come true was thrilling, yet the mention of rules tempered my excitement. At a young age, the concept of rules often felt like constraints, making things less straightforward and more complex.

 Chapter 16: The Wish

    I held the pen in my hand, still captivated by its intricate details. The Godmother had mentioned that there were rules to follow when using it. From my perspective, especially at a young age, it seemed odd that there would be restrictions on something meant to fulfill the heart''s desires. If this pen had the power to make anything come true, I wondered why there would need to be any rules at all. In my mind, wishes from the heart should be free from constraints.


    I gazed at the Godmother, her warm smile radiating a sense of comfort. "What are the rules?"


    "This is very important, Sammy. There is only one rule. The wish you write must be of equal importance for you and the person you wrote it for. After you have written your wish, you must close your eyes and say, ''This I wish from my heart.''"


    The rule she outlined seemed straightforward enough. Eager to test the pen''s power, I look around the room for a piece of paper to write on. "I have no paper."


    Quickly, she reached over to the table, picked up a piece of paper, and handed it to me. "That was an easy solution," she said with a smile. "I wish everything were that easy to solve."


    Gripping the pen in my right hand, I was ready to write, but before I could scribble a single word, my strength failed me, and I had to let the pen drop from my fingers.


    "I guess at one point in our lives, we all need a little push."


    With the gentle touch of her index finger on my hand, something extraordinary happened. It was as if a surge of energy flowed into my hand. Suddenly, I could move my fingers freely again, feeling a strength and control that had been absent for a long time. The sensation was invigorating.


    "This time, I''ll make sure it lasts more than five minutes."


    Her statement instantly connected the dots in my mind, bringing back memories of the lollipop girl. I had longed for another encounter with her, hoping that next time, she would fulfill her promise of granting me more time. On the last occasion we met, we played basketball together, and though she had promised ten minutes, I had only experienced five.


    My eyes shifted to my parents, who were resting nearby. Observing them, a clear and heartfelt wish formed in my mind. It was as if seeing them in that moment brought clarity to what I truly desired. The love and concern they had shown throughout my challenges guided me to a wish that not only mattered to me but would also resonate deeply with them.


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    "I know what I want to write," I told her.


    "Amazing!"


    With resolve, I wrote on the paper: "The wish I want granted, is the wish of my parents."


    "Are you sure that is what you want?"


    I nodded, acknowledging her question.


    "Place your hand over the written wish and recite the words to seal the deal."


    I felt anxious over the possibility of a mistake while writing the wish. Yet, I was conscious of the limited time I had, knowing if I didn''t take risks, I would probably not see anything of interest before I was gone. With my eyes closed and my hand resting on the paper, I spoke the words: ''This I wish from my heart."


    Unnoticed by me, the inked letters on the paper mysteriously faded away. The pen''s small dial, previously showing a higher number, now read 989. This change proved the Godmother''s words to be true: the pen indeed counts down each word written with it.


    "It is done." The Godmother said. "Now is the time for me to go to bed."


    The elderly woman approached the closet door, holding a skeleton key in her hand. She inserted it into the keyhole, saying, "Ensure you safeguard that pen while it''s in your hands." As she turned the key, in just a moment, she had vanished from sight.


    I stayed awake for a long time last night, waiting for her to show up again. But tiredness won the slapping fight, between my desire to see The Godmother and my fragile body.


    The next day, my parents succumbed to the beating of time, not waking up during my interaction with the Godmother last night, each on different sides of the sofa, snoring my sleep away.


    That''s when I heard a knock on my door.


    Immediately, I drew a smile on my face. I knew she would come and help me understand in detail how the pen works.


    "Good morning!"


    To my disappointment, it wasn''t her at the door. The nurse who stood there was undoubtedly pleasant, but her presence lacked the comforting warmth I had been hoping for. In response, I swiveled around and concealed myself entirely beneath the blanket.


    My parents began to rouse from their deep sleep at a sluggish pace.


    "Here''s the paperwork for Samuel Shatner''s long-term admission. Once you''ve completed the forms, you can simply drop them off at the nurses'' station."


    A wave of despair swept over me, as I had expected this to be just a routine visit. Summoning every ounce of courage, I turned to my father and inquired about the purpose of the paperwork. "Dad, what did the nurse mean by ''long-term admittance''?"


    He immediately turned my way, "It''s ok, Sammy. We have decided that it is better for you to stay."


    I felt trapped, believing that I should have a say in this decision. At that moment, a sense of disappointment flooded over me, and I couldn''t help but wonder if my parents were growing weary of looking after me.


    I turned to the side, my anger simmering at the decision my parents had made.


    My father sat beside me, tousling my hair gently with his hand. "Sammy, I understand you''re upset, but we don''t have the necessary medical equipment to ensure your safety at home. It hurts me that you have to stay here for now, until you recover."


    I stared into my father''s eyes, finding the sincerity I was looking for. I have to accept that his words make logical sense even for a child of my age.

 Chapter 17: Sacrifices

Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

 Chapter 18: Clowns and Friends

    Clowns were never really my thing. My parents seemed to freeze, watching the clowns play their harmonicas, filling the room with a flurry of balloons.


    "I think we should bring other kids to enjoy our guests, right?" my mother said looking for a way to leave the uncomfortable company.


    The male clown, flashing a wide smile, started inflating a red balloon. It swelled larger and larger until it finally popped, scattering confetti everywhere and unveiling a large poster proclaiming, ''Free Clown Show at Sammy''s.'' With an exaggeratedly goofy smile, he presented the banner to my mother.


    "Perhaps if we hang this on the door, it''ll draw instant attention here."


    Without hesitation, she went and hung the banner outside the room. Almost immediately, children from all sections of the hospital began to flock into the small room, eager to see the clowns.


    As everyone else was captivated by the clowns, I took a moment to open the envelope the female clown had handed me. Inside, there was a piece of paper that appeared blank at first glance, except for a few gold ink dots scattered across it. The arrangement seemed intentional as if someone meant for the ink to be splattered in that particular manner. On the envelope flap, there was a small wax seal, intricately shaped like an angel playing a trumpet.


    I glanced around, searching for the female clown. In contrast to her counterpart, she was swamped, with a crowd of children encircling her.


    "Please, one at a time. There''s enough for everyone!" the male clown urged, even as he was besieged by the children''s eager requests.


    A sea of tiny hands reached out towards the clowns. For every hand raised, the clowns would craft a balloon into the shape of an animal.


    "I want a giraffe!" a little girl said, capturing the attention of one of the clowns.


    With a smile, the clown snapped his fingers, and magically, a balloon started to inflate and morph into the shape of a giraffe. He dangled the string of the balloon over the delighted little girl.


    "Here''s the string for your giraffe, Elizabeth." The clown said with a smile, handing the balloon to the little girl.


    While everyone in the room was distracted by the number of kids gathering around, no one noticed that the balloons were inflating themselves.


    Two other kids stood near the door, observing the clowns closely. The girl accompanying the boy caught my attention, glancing over at me with a look of apprehension, while the boy stayed relaxed and amused, his attention fully absorbed by the show.


    "Hey kids, come in and join the fun," my mother called out to the children standing at the door. They walked inside the room, merging with the crowd as my mother stood beside me, seeking a brief respite from the crowd of children. "You should try to make some friends, Sammy."


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    All the children in the room appeared to be no older than 8 years old, with the exception of the two kids towering over the little ones. The girl walked towards me, her gaze serious and intrusive.


    "I don''t recognize you, yet you''re getting so much attention," she said. "Who are you?"


    I was stunned by her shiny blonde hair and the light green color of her eyes. Awkwardly, I couldn''t stop looking at her.


    "I''m talking to you!" she raised her voice, snapping me off my distraction.


    "Please don''t stare at my girl," the boy, now standing beside her, interrupted. "It''s disrespectful to stare at another man''s girl like that."


    "I''m not your girl, Jonah!" she responded loudly.


    "Mark my words, newbie, she is my territory," Jonah said with a smile.


    "You haven''t answered my question, mister. Who are you to deserve all this attention?"


    "His name is Samuel," My mother said as she entered the conversation. "His friends call him Sammy."


    "You have friends, Samuel? If you do, you''ll be on your own pretty soon."


    "He has us, Ashley."


    "Shut up, Jonah."


    At first, they seemed to look very serious. I could see Jonah''s playful side and the pretentious personality of the girl with the light green eyes.


    "We''re leaving; this party is lame. But I heard you''re going to be our new Cubie," Ashley said.


    The term ''cubie'' caught my curiosity. I glanced at my mother, who smiled broadly, before posing the inevitable question.


    "What is a cubie?"


    "It means bunk partner, roommate, and so on. I''m guessing you''ll be sharing a room with both of them," my mother said.


    "Basically, you''ll be living with us in the same room, and just so you know¡ªI have rules," Ashley said.


    "Ash, don''t rush into things. We really don''t know if he is the one we''ll share the room with," Jonah said. "We''ll see you later, Samuel."


    "I think it''s time to take this party somewhere else, don''t you think Sammy?" My mother asked me.


    "Please."


    I felt relieved, as the clowns started to pack up to leave. The female clown caught my eye several times with a wink. On her last wink, she pointed toward the empty letter she had given me.


    "Friends are forever," She whispered.


    I watched, the golden splatter of ink on the empty letter began to move, forming the words: ''Friends are forever.'' This surprised me, given that I had looked at the letter before and it had gone blank.


    My mother closed the door behind her, leaving me alone in the room. The silence settled in quickly, becoming my chosen companion for the moment. I held the letter in my hands, watching as the words disappeared and the golden ink returned to its initial, scattered arrangement just as it had been when I first opened it.


    The door swung open, and a new nurse entered the room, noticeably younger than Angela and wearing a necklace featuring an angel playing the trumpet.


    "Hello, Samuel!"


    She approached and began to check my pulse. Noticing the letter on the bed, she picked it up, holding it in her hand.


    "You got a letter from a friend?"


    "Something like that. I''d like to think of her as a best friend, though I''m not sure how she feels about it."


    The nurse offered a warm smile. "It''s wonderful that you think of others in such a caring way. It really shows your humility."


    "I wish I could see her more often, but I understand she''s busy. I''d love to play lots of games with her, especially chess."


    "That sounds like it would be a lot of fun."


    "It depends on who you''re playing with. If I play chess with my father, he will always beat me."


    "He never let you win?"


    "What''s the fun in doing that?" I asked.


    "Everything seems to be right. I''ll give Angela my notes and your proposition to play chess."


    The nurse smiled and winked at me, then, before she closed the door, she glanced at me again. In an instant, I noticed the young nurse''s face change to the old woman who visited me earlier, right before the door closed.

 Chapter 19: Wish Granted

If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

 Chapter 20: Jonah

This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

 Chapter 21: Entering Hopeland

    The following day, an unexpected but pleasant surprise walked through the front door. My parents came into my room early, filled with a sense of anticipation for a significant milestone¡ªthe day I would be admitted into Hopeland, the village designated for terminally ill children.


    My mother walked in with a radiant smile, holding a plate, while a nurse busied herself by disconnecting the monitor from my chest.


    "Good morning, Sammy! I have baked your favorite blueberry muffins!"


    It had been a long time since I last enjoyed my mother''s muffin. She was a crafty baker who always took pride in everything she did, making sure not to add an extra drop of batter. Her measurements were exact, faithfully following my grandmother''s recipe to the letter.


    The fragrance immediately grabbed my attention, invoking a sense of home I hadn''t experienced in quite some time. The aroma wafted through the room, transforming the clinical hospital setting into a space filled with the warmth and comfort of my family''s kitchen.


    Excited, I smiled at the sight of the plate in her hands. "They smell delicious! I could smell them from a distance!"


    My father, meanwhile, was preparing for the move, handling the bags and unfolding the wheelchair. "Alright, Sammy, we''re all set to go."


    Remembering the promise Jonah and I had made, I hesitated, wanting to honor our agreement. "Can we wait for Jonah? He said he''d be here to drive me around."


    My father nodded in understanding and consent. "Absolutely."


    Moments after I expressed the desire to wait, Jonah entered the room, punctual to his promise. "I''m here, Sam. Are you ready to do this?"


    "I''m ready. My mom brought me muffins. We can share them once we''re settled in."


    Until Jonah came along, it felt like no one could truly understand the way I viewed the world. As we made our way out of the hospital and into Hopeland Village, a sense of unease enveloped me. The village itself appeared as a separate community, with each building distinct and detached from the hospital. While my parents explored the village with fascination, I found myself closing my eyes, unable to accept my new reality.


    Jonah, noticing my reluctance, picked up the pace while pushing my wheelchair. "This is not the time to go blind, soldier. I need your eyes to detect the enemy!


    The moment he started pretending, I opened my eyes and joined the game.


    "The giant noticed us! His furious! It''s gaining on us general!"


    Jonah responded by pushing the wheelchair with even greater speed, our pace quickening as if truly escaping an imminent threat. "I won''t let that happen, soldier. Everyone in this platoon knows me as Six-Speed Johnny! That giant doesn''t stand a chance against us!"


    As we darted past the other buildings, my imagination transformed them into smaller giants, joining the frenzied pursuit to capture us. "General, more giants on the chase, to your six!"


    Jonah cast a glance over his shoulder, playing along, as he envisioned more giants closing in on us. "This doesn''t look good, soldier; at this pace, they''ll catch up to us in no time!"


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    As our adventure unfolded, the sky above us seemed to darken, with flashes of lightning piercing the gloomy atmosphere. Jonah came to an abrupt halt when, in our imaginations, a giant far larger than the ones pursuing us appeared to block our path. "Are you seeing what I''m seeing soldier?"


    My hands shook with fear as I watched the giant, towering and formidable, ripping a tree from the earth with sheer brute force. "I''m scared, Jonah."


    "Do not fret, soldier. The cavalry will soon arrive."


    Just as the giant prepared to wield the tree as a weapon against us, a figure straight out of a storybook appeared: a knight clad in dark metal armor, descending from the skies on a magnificent winged horse. The knight''s shield caught my eye, adorned with the emblem of an angel playing a trumpet, shining in gold. As the knight dismounted, he intervened just in time, stopping the tree with an outstretched hand before it could strike us, his heels digging into the mud, withstanding the giant''s force.


    As the knight lifted its visor, the mystery of our savior was unveiled.


    "I thought you needed a hand." The Godmother said.


    Overwhelmed with excitement at her timely arrival, I couldn''t contain my joy. "Yeah!" I cheered, celebrating the Godmother''s sudden appearance.


    The Godmother, now clad in striking black armor, drew her sword, its blade suddenly engulfed in flames. "I''ll make sure this giant never threatens you again."


    With a determined charge towards the giant, she brandished her fiery sword with skill and grace. In a swift, decisive movement, the Godmother slashed through the tree in the giant''s grasp, causing it to vanish as if it were nothing but a mirage. The giant, overwhelmed by her power, kneeled, ceasing its relentless assault on us.


    "Samuel!" Jonah yelled.


    Emerging back into reality, I realized that those around me had witnessed my enthusiastic cheering for the Godmother''s victory in our imaginative battle against the giant. Nurse Angela stood by, her smile gleaming with warmth and understanding, ready to welcome me back from the adventure.


    "Welcome to Hopeland Village Samuel!"


    "I lost you for a few minutes man, but you''re back. The giants are gone." Jonah whispered.


    "This is your new temporary house, Sammy." My mother said, pointing at the building next to us.


    As Angela led us towards the building, Jonah leaned closer to whisper, "What happened back there? We were almost taken out by those giants."


    "She came, Jonah. She defeated the giant right in front of me."


    As my parents explored the room, Jonah circled to the front of my wheelchair, looking intently into my eyes. "The angel nurse came to your rescue?"


    I nodded, affirming his guess, and watched as his smile grew broader. "You''re kidding me? You have to tell me every single detail!"


    My eyes sparkled with excitement as I recounted the tale. "She had a sword made out of fire! It was so cool!"


    I spared no detail in describing the battle to Jonah, painting the scene of how the Godmother valiantly fought off the giant. As we delved into the story, it became clear that we shared a vivid imagination and a similar outlook on life, bonding over our fantastical adventure.


    Yet, amidst our newfound friendship, a sobering truth lingered in my mind¡ªthe realization that among us, I would be the first to depart on the next journey.


    ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥ ? ? ? ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    As I took a moment to pause my storytelling and refill my cup of tea, I noticed Makayla lying thoughtfully on the couch, wrapped up in the narrative.


    "Are you doing ok kid?"


    She stood up, the blanket still wrapped around her. "If your situation were similar to mine and my brother''s, I think I would feel like your friend Jonah."


    Her insight prompted a moment of reflection. "I must say, you''re correct. It seems one can only see her when the time is nearing its end."


    Makayla accompanied me to the kitchen, pausing by the old window that rattled under the assault of the storm outside. "I hope my brother is okay. I know he must be scared."


    Turning to face her, I saw the worry etched on her face. "Your brother has a strong spirit, just like you. He''s probably just as concerned for you."


    A smile briefly crossed Makayla''s face. "I know. He''s always so positive. That''s partly why I was searching for the Godmother''s Pen. But in a way, I''m glad I couldn''t find it."


    After refilling my tea, we made our way back to the couch, ready to dive back into the unfolding tale, the storm outside mirroring the hopeful journey of the story.

 Chapter 22: Ashleys Wish

    At 12 years old, I was extremely shy. My first night in Hopeland Village was eerily quiet yet somehow loud enough to keep me awake. I shared the room with two other kids: a boy named Jonah, whom I had already connected with, and a girl who seemed like she might be quite a handful, based on the array of items around her bed.


    I found myself in the less-than-ideal position of having the middle bed, as both of my roommates had a tendency to talk in their sleep. Jonah, in particular, possessed an incredibly vivid imagination. His sleep was filled with dreams where he was a gleaming golden knight, embarking on quests or fleeing from enormous spiders and monsters, making my nights more entertaining than tedious.


    This brings us to the girl in the neighboring bed, Ashley. She seems to draw a lot of attention, evidenced by her cubby holding more items than Jonah''s and mine put together. Beside her, a well-dressed man sleeps peacefully on the couch. Jonah has referred to her as his girlfriend on multiple occasions, though she denies it every time he mentions it. I found this ongoing exchange quite amusing.


    My parents wouldn''t return until morning, rendering my initial night in Hopeland Village somewhat lackluster. As time passed, my irritation mounted, with the quiet in my head plunging me into a whirlwind of feelings. Then, out of the quiet surrounding me, a voice broke through.


    "You can''t sleep?" Jonah asked.


    "It seems you''re awake too. Though, you were just running from a giant spider a few moments ago."


    Jonah grinned. "My dreams are incredibly vivid. At times, it''s hard for me to distinguish if they''re real." Suddenly, his excitement surged. Jonah got up from his bed, his face illuminated by a broad smile.


    "I''ve got an idea. Let''s come up with a system to alert me whenever the angel nurse comes to check on you."


    His suggestion struck me as odd. "I''m not sure how that would work if you can''t see her. Plus, I often don''t pay attention to my surroundings when she''s here."


    "Well, that idea is a bust."


    A rustling noise came from Ashley''s side of the room. The rooms are divided by sliding partitions that afford us privacy. Ashley slid her partition open, intrigued by our conversation.


    Ashey, with a sleep mask, pushed up to her forehead, emerged in front of her curtains. "You do realize it''s past midnight, don''t you? I can hear every word you say."


    "We didn''t intend to disrupt your sleep, princess. We''ll be more careful next time."


    "Now that you''ve chased away my sleep, I''m curious about your scheme to detect when the Godmother shows up."


    Her remark took me by surprise. It seemed that The Godmother was more popular than I thought. "Have you seen her?"


    She removed the mask from her head, brushing her hair back from her face. "You''re joking, right? Of course, I''ve seen her. But I want nothing to do with her. I''m not ready to die."


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "So, you''re aware that her appearance means your time is nearly over?" I asked.


    Ashley''s tense behavior softened, and she lowered her head. "The thought of dying terrifies me. I hardly see my parents anymore. Once I was diagnosed with Leukemia, I was brought here, far from my home."


    "My parents make an effort to visit daily, or at least my mother does."


    "It''s good they do that. My parents, however, manage a multi-million-dollar business, so their visits are less frequent. I do wish I could see them more often."


    I sensed a deep sadness in her words. At that moment, the idea of using the Godmother''s pen to introduce more joy into Ashley''s life crossed my mind.


    "Ashley, can I trust you with a secret?"


    "Absolutely, you can."


    I reached under my pillow to where the pen was hidden. Searching for it proved to be a challenge, but I eventually managed to find it.


    Growing impatient, Ashley sat on my bed. "Sam, what''s the secret?"


    When I revealed the Godmother''s pen, her eyes widened in surprise. "Is that what I think it is?"


    I nodded, observing Jonah''s puzzled expression. Ashley swiftly grabbed the pen from my hands, examining it closely. "Wow. I never imagined I''d get to see it this up close."


    Jonah''s frustration grew because he couldn''t perceive the artifact the way we could. "Ash, I don''t see anything in your hands."


    She reached out, switching on the light behind my bed. "What about now? Can you see it?"


    "No, I still can''t see anything."


    I intervened in the discussion, aiming to dissolve the room''s growing tension and provide a logical reason for Jonah''s inability to see the pen. "He''s not as close to his time as we are, Ashley. That''s probably why he can''t see it."


    "Maybe," Ashley said, her attention now on the pen''s three-wheel dial. "Wow, 989 words? I''ve only ever heard of the pen being capable of granting one wish written with a few words."


    "It''s a complicated story. I''ve been encountering the Godmother for some time. Initially, I didn''t understand; she took on the form of different children. But once I arrived here, she showed herself as an elderly woman."


    Ashley''s face lit up with curiosity. "So, are we going to use it or not?"


    "We need to respect a crucial rule. She advised me that the wish must hold importance for everyone it affects, or it might not turn out as intended¡ªit could lead to an unforeseen result. Perhaps we should begin with a modest request, such as wishing for your parents to visit you."


    Her eyes widened, and tears started to stream down her face. "Would you really do that for me?"


    "Absolutely. We''re bunk buddies, right?"


    She quickly moved to embrace me in a hug. Writing a wish on her behalf could soften her attitude towards us.


    I glanced around the room, recognizing the need for a piece of paper to write her wish. "I need a piece of paper."


    "How about a notebook? Will that work?" Ashley asked.


    "I think that should work just fine."


    Ashley retrieved a notebook from her cubby and sat next to me, laying the notebook on my lap. "Hold on. Do you think I should be the one to write the wish?"


    "We can give it a shot."


    She took the pen and started to write the wish, but no ink flowed from the pen. "It''s not working," she said.


    "What were you trying to write?" I asked her.


    "I wished that my parents had less work so they could spend more time with me. But the pen isn''t producing any ink."


    I took the pen from her, touched the paper with its tip, and instantly, the ink began to flow. "It seems it only allows me to write with it. The Godmother handed this pen to me, so perhaps it''s designed to work only in my hands."


    "Ok that''s fine," Ashley said. "Do it quickly or we are going to get caught."


    I started to inscribe Ashley''s wish in her notebook. "I wish Ashley''s parents had less work and more time to visit her." After writing it down, I covered the wish with my hands and softly said, "This I wish from my heart." As I spoke, the ink started to fade away.


    A smile formed on Ashley''s face as she watched the ink vanish from the paper.

 Chapter 23: Unrealized Desire

    After watching the ink vanish from Ashley''s notebook, I caught Jonah''s flushed expression as he quietly moved back to his side of the room. I could empathize with his frustration, stemming from a conversation centered around something invisible to him.


    "It''s not fair, you know. You two might embark on incredible adventures with the Godmother, while I can''t even see her. I''m starting to question what my place is here if I''m not terminally ill."


    I sensed the need to alleviate his distress. Unfortunately, much like him, I was puzzled about why he was placed in this village among us. The Godmother had already said, last night, that it wasn''t his time to see her.


    "You''re too far away, bunk buddy. The conversation''s happening over here. I promise, Jonah, as soon as I find out why you can''t see The Godmother, you''ll be the first to know."


    "You promise?"


    "I promise. Now, come over here before I have to come over and drag you back myself."


    Our laughter filled the room in my joke, well aware that I couldn''t leave my bed without help. Ashley''s gaze remained fixed on the notebook, puzzled by the disappearing ink. "What''s next? How long do I have to wait to see any results?"


    Our focus shifted to the pen''s dials as they started to count down, eventually halting at the number 976.


    "What does that mean?" Ashley asked.


    "Only thing I know is, that it counted down the words we used to write the wish. We just have to wait and see what happens."


    The door abruptly swung open, and the nurse on duty that night found us congregated around my bed.


    "Guys, please go to sleep," she said, shutting the door as she left.


    "Yeah, like she said. Go to sleep. You boys are annoying." As she retreated to her cubby, she cast a smile in my direction and gave me a wink.


    A rustling noise emanated from Jonah''s side of the room. He glanced at me before enveloping himself completely with his blanket. "Sam, do you think Ashley''s wish will come true?"


    "If we believe, it will happen."


    I eased back onto my bed slowly, as I usually do, my mind teeming with thoughts about the events unfolding around me. The surrounding silence pulled me away from watchful eyes, surrendering to the demands of my weary body.


    I awoke feeling refreshed from a full night''s sleep, the window of my bedroom coming into view as I opened my eyes. Confusion momentarily set in, as I remembered being admitted to Hopeland Village just a few days prior. The comforting sensation of being back home provided a much-needed sense of relief, something I had started to long for during my time in the hospital.


    I heard the distinct sound of a ball bouncing loudly on the basketball court next to my house. I searched for the string to sound the alarm, hoping my dad would come to help me stand.


    However, as I looked around my room, I couldn''t find it. I wished to sit in the chair by the window, to watch the kids play basketball as I often did.


    "Dad?"


    I contemplated yelling as loudly as possible, hoping to capture my parents'' attention. Yet, I knew resorting to such measures might land me in trouble, likely hindering the assistance I sought. Summoning all the courage within me, I attempted to rise from the bed on my own.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    To my astonishment, I managed to stand without any help, and it was effortless.


    The shock of this pleasant surprise left me bewildered. I moved from my desk and back, not feeling any drain on my energy.


    Settling into the chair, I opened my window. The breeze was slightly chilly, yet it wasn''t enough to make me seek refuge under my covers as it might have before.


    I noticed one of the kids, Matthew, seated on the bench, not participating in the game. The game was underway with teams of two, relegating him as the odd one out, waiting for his turn with the losing team.


    In a burst of excitement, I dashed downstairs to find my shoes. The thrill of the moment overwhelmed me; I was just moments away from inviting Matthew to join me in a game of one-on-one basketball. My heart brimmed with energy, signaling my readiness to resume life as I had always wished.


    "Mom? Dad?"


    It was out of the ordinary for my parents not to respond when I called out to them.


    "I''ll be out playing ball."


    Eager not to miss the chance to play, I sprinted outside the house and quickly joined Matthew on the bench.


    "Hey, Matthew." He glanced at me briefly, then continued to bounce his ball while seated.


    "Do you want to play a game with me? One on one?"


    A smile spread across his face. Matthew stood up from the bench and started running toward the other side of the court. I interpreted his action as acceptance of my invitation to play. Quickly, I followed him, catching the bouncing ball.


    "Thanks for playing with me, Mat."


    Matthew stayed quiet, focusing on shooting the ball into the basket.


    "Everything okay?" I asked again, but still received no response.


    Concern began to grow within me, pondering if I had inadvertently upset him. I was keen to find out why he wasn''t engaging in conversation.


    Matthew shot the ball once more, scoring a flawless basket.


    "I don''t think we should play anymore," he said, catching the rebound.


    " Why?" I asked.


    "I don''t understand how you can live on your own. How could you live with the choices you made."


    "But I don''t live on my own. My parents are sleeping."


    Ignoring my response, Matthew dashed toward the basket, leaping with all his might and scoring another impeccable shot.


    "I would never do anything to my parents the way you did."


    My confusion deepened; his remark made no sense to me.


    "They sacrificed everything so you could live. I don''t think it''s a fair exchange."


    "Mat, I don''t understand what you''re talking about. My parents are sleeping in their room."


    He halted the ball''s bounce and faced me directly. "Show me."


    Motivated by his challenge, I was intent on showing my friend that my parents were perfectly fine. Without hesitation, I turned and started heading back to my house. Matthew left the basketball behind on the court and trailed behind me, keeping some distance.


    I hurriedly opened the door, calling out as loudly as possible, "Mom!"


    Matthew lingered behind me; his face etched with a grave expression. "Show me."


    Together, we raced upstairs directly to my parents'' bedroom. I reached for the door, attempting to open it, but the knob wouldn''t turn.


    I knocked on the door twice. Yet, we received no reply. "Dad?"


    I attempted to open the door once again but with no success. "I can''t open it."


    Matthew then took his turn, grasping the knob and giving it a twist. The door swung open, revealing a tidy room that showed no signs of anyone living in it.


    Stepping into the room, I called out again, hoping for a response. "Mom?"


    "You, see? I bet you don''t even know where they are."


    The calmness around me was swiftly engulfed by darkness. The house, once adorned with bright, welcoming hues, transitioned into a desolate shade of grey. The sunlight ceased to illuminate the space, and Matthew morphed into a figure entirely unfamiliar to me, altering the ambiance dramatically.


    He stood before me, dressed in a black hoodie that completely obscured his face.


    "I will show you, where your parents lay."


    He gestured outside the house, and I couldn''t help but notice the skeletal thinness of his hand.


    "Follow me."


    Fear gripped my heart as I followed Matthew, uncertain of what awaited me. He exited the house, moving slowly toward the backyard.


    Stopping before an old tree, I could hear the leaves crunching beneath my feet. At the roots of the tree, two tombstones lay, each bearing my parents'' names.


    "This is where your parents lay."


    My heart clenched with pain as I beheld the sight of their graves. Tears streamed down my cheeks uncontrollably, dampening the soil that now covered my parents'' bodies.


    "They died because of me?" I asked.


    "They died because of your decisions. You allowed them to spend every ounce of energy they had, to give you a chance to live."


    I remained knelt before their tombstones, overwhelmed by a sense of guilt and confusion.


    "But is this what you wanted?" Matthew asked. "The trade-off is unfair. Two souls for one¡ªnothing is balanced with this exchange."


    Infuriated by his comment, I stood up, facing him with a shout fueled by every ounce of strength I possessed. "What do you want me to do?"

 Chapter 24: A Wish Come True

    I was jolted awake at the sudden sound of a box tumbling to the floor, sending my belongings scattering around me. With a sigh of relief, I closed my eyes again, my breathing slowly returning to normal after the intense dream.


    In the darkness, I heard faint footsteps, followed by the sound of someone gathering the fallen items and placing them back into the box.


    "I''m sorry, I hope I didn''t wake you up."


    The Godmother stood before me, her presence instantly calming my spirit with her warm smile.


    "Thank you for grabbing those for me."


    The old lady smiled. "You are a very polite young man. But your sleep is indeed very loud. I came to see if you were alright. Think of positive things that happened to you before you go to sleep. Positive thoughts bring positive dreams. That way, it won''t be that loud on the other side."


    "I found it difficult to understand the meaning behind her reference to ''the other side.''


    "Can you describe the other side to me?" I asked.


    "Aren''t you a curious one?" she responded with a smile, then took a seat on my bed. "Understand that everyone perceives the other side differently. For some, it might be a playground, while for others, it could be a small patch of green grass beneath the shade of an oak tree. The other side is seen as a place of refuge and comfort, and I happen to navigate between the real world and the other side as a guide to your place of harmony."


    Reflecting on her words, I tried to visualize an image in my mind of a place of harmony that would provide me with shelter on the other side.


    "I think my place of shelter will be my parents'' house."


    "If that''s the place you feel most comfortable, then it will be." She extended her hand and gently touched my arm. "I think you still need more rest. Remember; happy thoughts, happy dreams."


    With her words, I closed my eyes and drifted into sleep.


    The next day, I awoke with a sense of someone sitting beside me. Opening my eyes, I found Ashley sitting on my bed, her face flushed with irritation. "I don''t think The Godmother wants to grant me that wish."


    I observed the pink hat adorning her head, covering most of her hair. "Good morning to you too, Ashley," I greeted her with a smile. "The hat looks good on you."


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Suddenly, her expression shifted, and her cheeks flushed with a reddish hue. "Thanks. But I still want to see my wish granted, and I don''t have a lot of time to wait around for it."


    "I understand your frustration, Ashley, but we need to be patient. We wrote the wish last night, and these things take time."


    She stood up from my bed, crossing her arms and frowning deeply. "You have to call the old lady and tell her that I demand the wish to be granted immediately."


    "Ashley, please let everything run its natural course. You know the wish can be unpredictable."


    As I attempted to calm her down, the door creaked open slowly. A woman peered through the crack of the door, her smile widening upon seeing Ashley. She gestured for me to remain silent, placing her index finger to her lips. Then, another man emerged and hurried toward Ashley, wrapping his arms around her waist.


    "Princess!"


    Ashley turned around, her body freezing in place as she beheld her parents walking into the room. Tears welled up in her eyes, as she stood motionless before them. Overcome with emotion, she began to cry, rejoicing at the presence of her parents.


    Her father scooped her up into his arms, laughter filling the room as he twirled and danced with her.


    Meanwhile, the man who had been sleeping on the couch abruptly stood up upon the arrival of Ashley''s parents.


    "Welcome, sir! Your visit was not expected."


    "Yes, it was, Henry. We made the choice to dedicate more time to Ash. Considering everything, we now have an abundance of time at our disposal."


    Ashley steps back from her father''s embrace, curious about his comment. "You have plenty of time now? What happened?"


    "The firm was purchased by investors, and they revamped the board, excluding your mother and me from the management team."


    "Did you both lose your positions?"


    "No need to fret, dear. Let''s make the most of our time together."


    I overheard the whole discussion. Ashley''s parents were let go from their jobs, as a consequence of fulfilling her desire. From the other side of the room, Jonah shifts beneath his blanket, raising it slightly to observe the commotion in the room.


    "Sam!" He whispered. "Are they Ashley''s parents?"


    I gave a silent nod in response to his question. "Her wish was granted?"


    Observing Ashley enjoy her parents'' affection was truly comforting. It showcased a side of Ashley that was less familiar to me. She was laughing and playing in the room, interacting with her dad, as her mom carefully adjusted the hat she wore.


    "I will do your hair and dress you like a princess from now on." Ashley''s mother said.


    "Bella and Victoria not coming?"


    "Regrettably, they won''t be with us any longer. We needed to trim down on non-essential costs. Now that we''re available, I''ll be the one managing your hair care."


    At that moment, the man dressed as a butler joined the conversation. "Should I start packing my belongings too, madam?" Henry asked.


    Ashley''s father laid his hand on Henry''s shoulder. "You''ve been a member of this family for years. I want to be upfront with you; there may come a time soon when we''ll have to discuss adjusting your salary."


    Henry smiled and embraced Ashley''s dad "You''ve not only given me a roof over my head but also food on my plate. As far as I''m concerned, that''s more than I could ever ask for."


    Observing this exchange, a sense of warmth spread through me. The fulfillment of Ashley''s wish had led to some tough decisions for her parents, necessitating a few compromises. However, the silver lining was unmistakably clear - the family had come together in a way that exceeded all expectations. This beautiful turn of events sparked a hope in me that Ashley would now see The Godmother in a new light, not as a threat but as a helping hand.

 Chapter 25: Jonahs Parents

The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

 Chapter 26: Unknown Illness

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

 Chapter 27: The Rescue

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

 Chapter 28: The Final Battle

    At a distance, The Godmother rode her winged horse, launching arrows towards the giant spider. Meanwhile, an additional horde of skeleton warriors, equipped with shields and swords, streamed out of the temple. Jonah and Ashley continued their struggle against the growing swarm of skeletons, each finding themselves besieged by a number of them.


    "Aren''t these skeletons just figments of Jonah''s imagination? Why can''t he simply will them out of existence?" Ashley asked.


    "He''s lost control over them. We have to take them down before their numbers become too much for us to handle."


    The Godmother maneuvered in the sky, her arrows finding their mark on the giant spider, compelling it to retreat from advancing towards our position.


    "Well, at least she had that one under control."


    Abruptly, the skeleton warriors ceased their unyielding assault and started to form ranks in front of the temple entrance.


    "They''re stopping," Ashley said. "But why?"


    Then, the figure of an enormous skeleton emerged before us. Its skull was crowned with a diadem sparkling with numerous gems, and it wielded a sword with bolts of lightning coursing along the blade. The colossal skeleton advanced ahead of its legion, lifting its sword to signal the lesser skeleton warriors to commence their assault on us.


    "It''s coming! What do we do?" Ashley asked.


    Determined to confront the menace head-on, I rushed at the skeletons; however, my strikes failed to land. "What''s happening? They appear stronger than before."


    The skeletons had become more formidable and nimbler, effortlessly evading our attempts to strike them down. Glancing back, I noticed Jonah seated on the ground, his head shielded by his arms. The skeleton warriors intensified their assault, compelling us to seek refuge behind nearby rocks.


    "You are powerless! His mind is under my control!" the skeleton king said.


    "Jonah! Hiding won''t solve this; we must defeat the skeleton king, or you''ll forever lose control over your own mind."


    Jonah lifted his gaze, his face etched with terror. "Have you seen the size of that monster? It''s invincible; we don''t have what''s necessary to bring it down."


    "Ashley and I won''t be able to land a blow on it, but you have the power to do so. I''ll draw some of the skeletons'' attention, and Ashley will handle others. You need to charge directly at the skeleton king ¨C you''re the only one who can defeat him."


    Jonah stood up; his eyes filled with resolve as he looked at me. "I''ll do my best."


    "But trying isn''t enough, Jonah. You must have faith in you, we, have faith in you. Believe in your own strength, because, after all, you''re the master of this nightmare."


    Immediately, Ashley and I charged at the skeleton army, creating a diversion that isolated the skeleton king.


    Jonah seized the opportunity, sprinting through the gap with his stave on his hand, his eyes determined to end the conflict once and for all.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    "This is your end, skeleton king. This dream belongs to me. I am your creator, and I will retrieve what rightfully belongs to me from the start!"


    With each collision of their weapons, lightning sparked from the skeleton king''s sword. Jonah landed a blow to the skeleton king''s skull, but then, the visage of the skeleton king morphed into a clear image of his father, William. Jonah halted his assault, startled by the transformation.


    "What''s the matter, buddy? Don''t recognize me?"


    Jonah, fueled with anger, didn''t hesitate to continue the attack. With a fierce determination in his eyes, he pressed forward against the image of his father, taking control of the battle.


    "You are not my real father! You take advantage of my mother! You deserve to disappear!"


    As he spoke, his stave transformed, extending and branching out into roots that ensnared the skeleton king. These roots sharpened like spikes, bursting from the ground and vanquishing the remaining skeletons. Jonah advanced slowly, halting before the image of his father.


    "Jonah, buddy, let me go. Don''t do this to your own father."


    Jonah''s stave morphed into a spear, and with unflinching resolve, he drove it through the chest of the skeleton king, causing the entity to vanish. As the skeleton king dissipated, the surroundings began to transform anew; the tempestuous weather gave way to tranquility, and lush green pastures sprouted around us.


    "Yeah!" I shouted, reveling in our success against the skeleton army.


    The environment around us brightened, signaling the storm''s departure. The giant spider lay defeated by The Godmother, who now rode her winged horse through the clearing skies towards us. Landing gracefully, she dismounted with a smile, positioning herself before Jonah.


    "Who would''ve thought you had this strength within you all along," The Godmother said.


    Jonah held The Godmother in an embrace, gazing up at her with appreciation. "Thank you. I couldn''t have done it without you."


    "I merely distracted a giant spider; it was your friends who had the courage to rush to your aid. You must realize you can see me because they are sharing this dream with you. Once we return to the real world, I''ll become invisible to you once again."


    "Why?" Jonah asked. "I want to play with you too."


    "You are meant to live a long life, Jonah. I want you to understand that just because you can''t see me, it doesn''t mean I am not there next to you. Now, I will snap my fingers and we will return to the village."


    In an instant, we found ourselves back in our room. As I opened my eyes, I saw the doctor and two nurses attending to Jonah. Ashley stirred awake beside me, with our beds already moved apart, each returned to its original position. Nurse Angela caught sight of us regaining consciousness and offered a comforting smile.


    "You guys were asleep for quite a while. I''m glad to see you back in the land of the living."


    "How is Jonah?" I asked.


    "He will be fine. Although, we can''t figure out what happened to him."


    Ashley let out a sigh and started walking towards her cubicle. "I''m heading to my bed. I''ve had my fill of giant spiders and skeletons for one night."


    "Ashley," I whispered, soft enough so only she could hear. "Thank you. You''re the best."


    Pausing briefly, Ashley turned with a smile before continuing to her bed. After the doctor and nurses exited our room, the quiet hum of Jonah''s monitoring equipment filled the space, leaving me wide awake. Then, The Godmother materialized, observing Jonah as he breathed calmly in his sleep. She made her way over to me and sat on the bed.


    "I still can''t understand why his thoughts were so turbulent. I was under the impression that we could govern our own minds'' visions. I truly wish to avoid going through anything like that again."


    "Every mind is its own universe. Throughout my time of service, I''ve seen the extent to which a mind can wreak havoc on its host. Many consider the mind a mystery in itself. The moment you realize you are the master of your thoughts; you unlock the potential to become anything you envision."


    Watching Jonah, thoughts of my own mortality crossed my mind. "I wish I knew when my time will end."


    The Godmother looked at me, curious. "And why super Samuel will want to know that?"


    "I just wanted to know for how long I am able to enjoy the company of my friends."


    "Then I suggest you cherish every moment you spend with them. Live out the rest of your days in the presence of those who bring you joy."


    I smiled at her comment. "Thanks for keeping me company."


    "You''re welcome, young Samuel. Now is time to get some rest."

 Chapter 29: A New Friend

    The next day, I was awakened by the loud voices of two people arguing just outside our room. The closed-door did little to muffle their heated discussion, which clearly involved Jonah, as his name came up several times. This indicated that the people arguing were his parents. I had observed this behavior before, only from his father. His mother was usually more understanding and amorous towards her son.


    Abruptly, the door swung open, completely disregarding the presence of anyone else in the room.


    "Jonah! Mommy is here!"


    Nurse Angela entered shortly after them, her cheeks colored with embarrassment due to the thoughtless actions of Jonah''s parents.


    "Would you please be considerate of the other kids? They''re still asleep!"


    Jonah''s mother spun around to confront Angela, casting a disdainful glance at the nurse before proceeding to Jonah''s bedside. Jonah''s father remained by the room''s entrance, casually leaning against the door frame.


    "I''m here, just so you''re aware," he said, beginning to bite his fingernails while casting a cryptic glance in my direction.


    Feeling a sudden urge to visit the bathroom, I signaled to the nurse for assistance to get out of bed. She quickly came to my aid, her gaze still fixed on Jonah''s parents, alert to their every move.


    "I would like to try and walk, Miss Angela."


    "That''s great! It will be a good start for your therapies."


    She assisted me to my feet, and after I took three slow, successive steps, my legs started to shake. "I''m right here behind you, Sammy; there''s no need to panic."


    With a gentle firmness, she lifted me, as if I were as light as a feather, placing me by the bathroom rails.


    "You got it from here?"


    "Yes, Thank you."


    As I steadied myself, the sound of Jonah''s parents arguing near his bed filtered through, each pointing fingers at the other for their absence the previous night. This echoed the transformation of the skeleton king into the image of Jonah''s father in his nightmare, a figure Jonah vehemently denied as his real father. Whether or not the accusations held any truth, my only wish was for my friend''s swift recovery. I hoped he wouldn''t miss the fall festival, which was set to begin today.


    After pressing the call button on the wall for assistance, I awaited the response. Soon, there were two gentle knocks on the door, signaling that help had arrived. The door swung open, and my father stepped into the bathroom to support me.


    "Hey son, I hope you are feeling better."


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "Hi, Dad. Can you hold me while I try to walk?"


    "Absolutely."


    The recent adventures with my friends altered my perspective on life. Aware of the limited time I had, I no longer let it weigh me down. Instead, my focus shifted to recovering and spending as much quality time as possible with my friends.


    After my father helped me back into bed, my mother came over to me. "Good morning, Sammy. What happened to your friend last night? I''ve heard the nurses talking about him."


    "He suddenly fell ill."


    She leaned in closer, lowering her voice to a whisper, "I''ve heard his parents might be causing trouble."


    Her comment sparked my curiosity. "What exactly you hear?"


    "There are just rumors, sweetie. Nothing you should worry about."


    "Jonah''s parents left?"


    "The nurse had to intervene with them. It''s related to the incident involving your friend last night."


    Compelled by their concern, I decided to share Jonah''s feelings towards his stepfather. "Jonah doesn''t get along with him, with his father."


    "That''s unfortunate. However, those are matters for Jonah''s family to address. Your focus should be on your upcoming therapy sessions and enjoying the festival."


    I gazed at Jonah''s bed, observing him as he slept peacefully. While my parents were getting my wheelchair ready, a nurse came into the room, bringing our breakfast. Recalling how Jonah''s stepfather usually stayed close to him around this time, I reached out, grasping my father''s hand and drawing him nearer. "Can you do me a favor?"


    "Anything for you, son. What''s bothering you?"


    "If Jonah''s parents come back, can you keep an eye on his stepfather for me?"


    "Why? Is there anything wrong?"


    "Could you just do that for me? Please?"


    "Of course, I will."


    The nurse set up a foldable table beside Jonah''s bed, placing his breakfast on it before doing the same for Ashley and me. Just as I had anticipated, Jonah''s parents returned to his bedside shortly afterward. I tugged at my dad''s sleeve as a reminder for him to watch Jonah''s stepfather closely.


    That''s when I saw her for the first time,


    As she entered the room, guided by Nurse Angela, she dragged a teddy bear behind her. Her blonde hair and blue eyes cast an almost angelic aura around her. Nurse Angela led her to Jonah''s bedside, where she looked upon him with eyes brimming with sorrow, gently taking his hand in hers.


    Caught off guard by her presence, I was momentarily lost for words as she navigated the space around Jonah''s bed to come closer to me.


    "Hi, I''m Amanda. I used to be in the bed you''re now using. Jonah is a good friend of mine."


    It took a moment for me to collect my thoughts, her smile sparking a whirlwind of emotions inside me. Eventually, I found the courage to respond. "I''m Samuel, and you are the most beautiful girl I''ve ever seen."


    My father, caught off guard by my bold statement, quickly intervened. "He''s been a bit out of sorts, especially after what his friend went through. Please, excuse him."


    "Why?" Amanda said, "I found his comment flattering. Does he have a date for the festival?"


    Without hesitating I immediately agreed. "This afternoon?"


    She smiled and immediately replied, "I will be fetching apples. I''ll wait for you there."


    "You have a deal."


    "Amanda, you''ve made quite the impression. Now, it''s time for you to head back to your room." Amanda looked back at me, offering an angelic smile that lingered in my memory. She waved goodbye as she exited our room, leaving a lasting impression.


    My father, clearly surprised by the interaction between Amanda and me, shared his perspective. "Son, don''t you think you''re a bit young to be thinking about dating?"


    Entering the discussion with a light tap on my father''s arm, my mother interrupted. "Ray! Let him enjoy the company of his new friend. I''m perfectly fine with him going on a date with a girl his age."


    What I felt that morning was beyond words. A smile would spontaneously appear on my face whenever I thought about her, filling me with an indescribable sense of happiness.

 Chapter 30: Bobbing for Apples

    Her angelic face lingered in my mind, igniting feelings I couldn''t fully comprehend. This brand-new emotion swelled within me, bringing a sense of anticipation for our afternoon date. Lost in thought, I was brought back to the present by a gentle touch on my hair.


    "Your breakfast is getting cold." My father said.


    I took my breakfast plate from the foldable table, setting it on my lap. The meal consisted of two eggs, a slice of bacon, a small portion of hash browns, and a glass of orange juice. I glanced at Jonah''s cubie, noticing his parents were still seated beside his bed. Underneath his blanket, Jonah shifted until he finally pulled the cover off his face.


    Jonah turned his head slightly, his hair obscuring part of his face. "Hi, mom."


    His mother rose from her seat, her expression brightening the instant her son was awake. "Jonah! My baby. I''m so happy to see you awake. You have to tell Mama what happened to you last night."


    Meanwhile, William began to survey the room with a wary eye. That''s when I discreetly tugged at my father''s shirt sleeve. He whispered back, "I''m already on it, son."


    William got up from the couch by Jonah''s bed and discreetly took a small pouch from his back pocket, subtly emptying its contents into Jonah''s cup.


    Grabbing my father''s hand, I pulled him closer to whisper, "What did he just pour into Jonah''s cup?"


    Unexpectedly, The Godmother materialized behind William, deliberately knocking the orange juice from Jonah''s foldable table, causing it to spill over William''s lap.


    "What the hell?"


    The disturbance quickly drew the attention of everyone in the room, including the nurse who was in the midst of delivering breakfast. She hurried to her cart to grab some paper towels to clean up the spill but was abruptly halted by Jonah''s stepfather.


    "Hand those to me; I''ll deal with this mess."


    The nurse complied, passing him the towels, and then she picked up the cup from Jonah''s tray, which still contained a small amount of juice.


    William''s behavior shifted to panic as he grabbed the nurse''s hand, stopping her from collecting the cup. "I would like to finish that if you don''t mind."


    "The cafeteria offers a great selection of food, including orange juice. I''d recommend checking it out."


    She managed to pull her hand free and took the cup back to her cart. My father gave me a knowing look and nodded, then discreetly exited the room, waiting for the nurse to complete her tasks. After replacing Jonah''s juice, the nurse proceeded to distribute the remaining breakfast trays to other rooms in the village.


    The Godmother gave me a smile and walked away. Jonah glanced to his side, holding a serious stare towards his stepfather.


    "Mom, why is this man here?"


    His comment sparked her curiosity. "He is your stepdad, of course, he is going to be here for you."


    "I would like him to leave. His presence is not welcomed."


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    William immediately got up and headed for the door. "Just so you know, the feeling is mutual," he said, shutting the door behind him.


    Irritated by the exchange, Jonah''s mother stood up, frustrated. "Jonah, why must you act this way? Your behavior was extremely rude."


    Jonah remained silent, merely observing as his mother walked out of the room. Ashley, witnessing the scene from her bed, noticed Jonah sitting alone, looking forlorn. She didn''t hesitate, leaving her cubie and running to Jonah''s side giving him a comforting hug.


    "I''m happy to see you''re up. The festival is about to begin."


    Jonah turned his attention from Ashley to me. Understanding the situation, I nodded at him, signaling that he was free to join her since I had my own companion arranged. Just then, my parents walked into the room, eager to head to the festival happening in the courtyard.


    "Sammy, are you all set?"


    Right as my mother voiced her readiness, a nurse entered, guiding Amanda by the hand. Adorned with a red ribbon in her hair, and featuring an angel pendant with spread wings, Amanda''s appearance instantly brightened my mood, and a smile effortlessly spread across my face.


    "Samuel! Someone has come to see you." the nurse said.


    My parents warmly welcomed Amanda into the room. "What a lovely young lady, we''re so pleased she''s chosen our son as her festival companion. We''ll likely join in on the games too¡ªyou understand how it is with us mothers," my mother said, her voice dropping to a softer tone. "We always have to keep an eye on our children."


    Amanda smiled. "Absolutely. I am ready when you all are."


    My father lifted me from the bed and settled me into the wheelchair. Together, we made our way toward the festival, with Ashley and Jonah following close behind. Amanda paused for a moment, gently placing her teddy bear on my lap. "He''ll be safer with you."


    Grasping the teddy bear with both hands, I assured her with a smile, "Nothing will happen to him, I promise."


    Upon reaching the courtyard entrance, a banner welcomed us to the Fall Festival in Hopeland Village. The courtyard itself burst into life with activities: games dotted the area, clowns entertained, and a myriad of children engaged in the festivities. Decorations of pumpkins and straw scarecrows adorned the space, with leaves strewn about the ground, adding to the autumnal theme.


    The nurse who had been accompanying Amanda took a seat on a nearby bench, allowing Amanda the freedom to fully immerse in the festival''s joy. My parents, caught up in the festive spirit, headed towards a water pistol game, leaving Amanda and me to decide which game we wanted to try first.


    "Which one should we try first?" I said, looking at Amanda for her preference.


    "Bopping for apples? I''ve always wanted to try that game."


    "I might need your assistance with that game. Reaching into the barrels could be a bit challenging for me."


    Amanda gazed at me with a playful grin, "No problem, we don''t necessarily have to grab the apples with our mouths; we can be creative with how we play."


    My smile widened, realizing that our shared experience didn''t hinge on physically participating in the game. Nearing the array of small barrels, we were met with a gracious greeting from the attendant.


    "Hello, please feel free to choose any barrel, and best of luck."


    Catching sight of the pin adorning the attendant''s collar¡ªan angel playing a trumpet¡ªI recognized her true identity. That particular angel was the Godmother''s signature symbol.


    "Thank you, for watching over us, Godmother."


    The attendant''s expression transformed into a gentle smile, and then her appearance shifted into that of the familiar old lady. "Good intuition, Samuel."


    Amanda dashed towards the attendant, wrapping her in a warm hug. "Hi, sweetie," the Godmother said, returning Amanda''s embrace with equal warmth. "I''m happy to see you''ve made a good friend in Samuel. He possesses a vast imagination, much like yours. Now, go on and enjoy the game. I''ll be here, ensuring everyone has a great time."


    Amanda initiated the game by attempting to snatch an apple using only her mouth. After several unsuccessful tries, she resorted to using her hand, exclaiming with a triumphant grin, "See? I got one."


    The traditional rule of the game dictates that participants should not use their hands to retrieve the apples floating in the barrel. Then, skillfully, she picked up the apple by its stem and held it in front of my mouth for me to take a bite. "I know you can do it, Sammy!"


    As I prepared to bite, I saw an unexpected worm emerge from the apple. The worm wriggled around on the apple''s surface, perhaps puzzled by the unusual movement.


    "Amanda, look," I said, pointing at the worm.


    She rotated the apple for a better view and, startled by the sight of the worm, inadvertently dropped the apple back into the barrel.

 Chapter 31: The Warning

    The appearance of the worm was entirely unexpected, and Amanda''s reaction hinted that she shared my discomfort with worms. Curiously, I leaned closer to the barrel, immersing my face among the bobbing apples, observing the worm, surfing the ripples of the water to another apple. Withdrawing, I had a clear thought in mind.


    "I don''t know about you, but I like my apples without the worms."


    Amanda, with a playful smile, picked up the apple close to the adventurous worm. "We should stand against these worms, protecting the good apples in the barrel."


    Suddenly, I found myself submerged in the water, undergoing a transformation in an instant. My ears grew longer, and my legs merged into one, bestowing upon me the ability to glide through the water with unparalleled swiftness. I became stronger and more agile in the form of a merboy.


    A trident materialized, skewering a colossal apple that rested at the bottom of the barrel, illuminating the aquatic realm around us. A blonde mermaid approached, gently touching my shoulder before taking my hand. Our fingers interlocked effortlessly, captivating me with her enchanting smile. A surge of vitality flooded through me, fueled by the glimpse of a noble spirit shining from her eyes.


    As we stood, the giant apple beneath us suddenly cracked open, revealing a massive worm that eyed us with a menacing gaze before charging in our direction.


    "We need to split up, Amanda. We have to make it to the trident lodged in the giant apple."


    swimming in opposite directions, Amanda drew the attention of the giant worm, leading it away from me. I surged towards the trident, hoping to wield it against our formidable adversary. As soon as my fingers brushed against the weapon, an array of smaller worms burst forth from the apple. With a quick flick of my tail, I scattered the smaller worms, then seized the gleaming trident, just as the giant worm loomed dangerously close to Amanda. In a desperate move, the worm snapped at Amanda, managing to snatch the teddy bear from her hand.


    "No! it grabbed my stuffy!"


    As the giant worm prepared for another attack, its mouth agape revealing a terrifying array of teeth aimed directly at Amanda, I propelled myself forward with all my might, driving the trident beneath its head with forceful determination.


    Just as the battle reached its climax, reality intruded. "Amanda! Five minutes until your next treatment," the nurse said, abruptly halting our fantastical underwater quest.


    "That was incredibly fun. I hope we get to do it again." Amanda said.


    Then, in an unexpected gesture of affection, Amanda leaned in and hugged me tightly. "Do you feel it too? This... sensation inside?" She gently took my hand and placed it over her stomach.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    "I do. I can''t explain the feeling. It only happens whenever I''m with you."


    The nurse approached, resting her hand on Amanda''s shoulder. "Are we ready?"


    "Will I see you again today?" I asked, sharing a hopeful note in my voice. Amanda leaned in once more, leaving a gentle kiss on my cheek. It was the first time I felt the soft touch of a girl''s lips.


    "I wouldn''t miss it for anything in this world."


    I was aware of my father approaching, yet I couldn''t bring myself to look away from her. "I saw that," my father said, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "Seems like we''ll need to have that talk about girls soon."


    "Sure, Dad."


    As Amanda faded into the distance, Jonah and Ashley came to join me. Jonah sported a pirate hat, sparking memories of the pirate boy toy back at my house. "So, how did it go?" Ashley asked.


    "It went well, thanks," I said, shifting my gaze towards Jonah. "I hope you''re feeling better Jonah. Last night was pretty rough."


    "Are you kidding? I''m incredibly excited about all these games! Let''s try the roulette one next!"


    We dove into the festival activities, trying out almost every game we came across. Even amidst the fun and laughter shared with my friends, my mind continually wandered back to her, lingering on the moments we shared.


    As day turned into night, we made our way back to our room, my mind still captivated by the time I shared with Amanda. Ashley and Jonah came over to my bed, taking a seat next to me, joining in reflection.


    "I had hoped she would have more time to spend at the festival with me, but she never came back. I just wish there was something I could do for her, to maybe give us a little more time together."


    "But you do have a way to help her. You have The Godmother''s Pen. From my point of view, that gives you the ability to make a significant difference in her life," Jonah said.


    "I am going to ask her tomorrow."


    "But what about the consequences? What happens if you wish for more time for her?" Ashley asked.


    Jonah jumped into the conversation, "Phrase the question like this: If you had the chance to make a wish, what would you wish for? Do you think she''d accept that idea?"


    At that moment, The Godmother materialized before us. Ashley, moving from her spot by my bed, embraced The Godmother in a warm hug, welcoming her presence amidst our conversation.


    "That was quite the hug, Ashley. I''m pleased to see you''ve changed your mind about me."


    "I had my doubts before, now, you are my favorite."


    Jonah glanced around, puzzled, as he observed Ashley hugging what seemed to him like thin air. "She''s here, isn''t she?"


    I nodded, staring at The Godmother.


    "I''m here to caution you about the use of the pen. Everyone has their allotted time in this world, and attempting to use the pen to circumvent death could lead to grave consequences."


    "So, I can''t use the pen to grant Amanda more time?" I asked.


    "Time is something we all are destined to lose. How you spend it throughout your life is beyond the pen''s influence. Amanda''s time is drawing near its end. She has come to terms with her fate, and her soul is prepared for departure. Attempting to change this natural progression could result in more sorrow than joy. Bear in mind, Samuel, that there must be equilibrium in all things."


    As soon as The Godmother concluded her message, she disappeared from my sight.


    "What did she say, Sam?" Jonah asked.


    "Nothing important."


    "We should let Amanda decide if she wants the wish or not. I''m going to sleep; you guys should do the same." Ashley said.


    I paused to consider The Godmother''s warning. Recognizing the dangers of tampering with time, I realized there must be another approach. Initially, when I received the pen, there was only one rule I needed to follow. Yet, what if Amanda''s desire is to spend more time with me? Shouldn''t her wishes influence the drafting of any wish? For the moment, I opted to conceal the pen, yielding to the exhaustion that enveloped my body.

 Chapter 32: Unwanted Wish

    Waking up the following morning, I felt an unexpected surge of energy coursing through me, despite my legs not cooperating. Eager to seize the day, I yearned to get into my wheelchair and roam around the village. Perhaps, I could even encounter the girl who had captivated my thoughts and engage in a meaningful conversation with her. Meanwhile, Jonah was his usual active self, bustling around his bed. He settled into a seated position, stretching his arms wide, clearly primed for whatever the day might bring.


    I glanced around the room, surprised by the Halloween decorations, taking over our room.


    "Jonah!"


    He turned around quickly, "What''s up?"


    "Our room is decorated!"


    He stepped out of bed and looked around, appreciating the various decorations scattered throughout the room.


    "You know what that means right?" I asked him.


    "It''s Halloween?"


    "No silly... it means candy!"


    He came over to grab the wheelchair beside my bed, aiding me as I settled into it. It seemed he grasped the plan immediately: we were set to roam around, scooping up as much candy as possible before the six o''clock curfew was enforced.


    "We''re going to make rounds through the hospital and hit the nurses'' station too, right?"


    "I am not familiar with the village or the hospital surroundings. I''ll need you to lead the way."


    "Well, that will not be a problem at all, I know my way around. But we don''t have anything to gather candy with, maybe a box or a bag tucked away?"


    Just then, the door to our room swung open, and my parents entered, their hands filled with multiple bags. They stopped in their tracks upon seeing me already seated in my wheelchair, with Jonah by my side.


    "Good morning, Sammy. Are you going anywhere in particular?" My mother asked.


    "We were going to collect candy from the nurses'' stations."


    "Don''t you think is a little bit early for that?" My father said, glancing at his wristwatch.


    "I know, but if we don''t start now, all the good candy might be gone."


    My father''s face broke into a smile. "Looks like we had the same idea."


    He began sifting through the bags they carried, drawing out various masks and hats designed for Halloween celebrations. "This one seems just right for you, son."


    He handed me the mask of a skeleton face, a black hoodie, and a toy scythe. "We thought this would be of your liking." I accepted the items he brought me, lacking visible excitement.


    "You don''t like them, son?"


    Examining the mask, I found its choice slightly ironic, yet I didn''t want to diminish their effort. "No, I do like them, thanks, Dad."


    My mother pulled out a tiara, a wand, and a dress from one of the bags, evidently a costume intended for a girl. "And we''ve got this one for your friend, too. Is she going to be around gathering candy with you?"


    "I am not sure."


    With the assortment of costumes now spread out on the sofa, Jonah began to rummage through them, intrigued. "Is there something cool I could borrow?"


    My father reached into the last bag, pulling out a toy sword and a helmet. "How about being a paladin? Does that sound good to you?"


    "Perfect," Jonah said.


    As Jonah started to try on his new costume, Ashley emerged from her cubie. "You guys are making quite the racket." She said, her eyes widening as she took in the festive decorations scattered around the room. "Wow. This is the first time I''ve seen a room like this. Who did all the decorating?"


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    "I think the nurses did it," I said.


    Just then, Nurse Angela entered the room. "Do you like the decorations we set up for you? There''s plenty of candy at the nurses'' stations; make sure to grab some."


    At that moment, Jonah''s parents appeared at the door, looks of concern etched on their faces. Jonah stepped forward to meet his mother, taking her hand in his. "I''ll be going trick-or-treating with my friends. I hope that''s okay with you." Jonah said.


    "It''s okay, sweetie. We just came to say goodbye. I''ll see you next time if I can." Jonah''s mother said, her face shadowed by a touch of sadness as she turned to leave.


    "I wonder what''s wrong with her."


    Jonah rejoined us, positioning himself at the handles of my wheelchair as we prepared to venture through the hospital. "Do you know where Amanda''s room is now?"


    "It''s likely back in the hospital wing, but I can''t say for sure. Sorry, buddy. They keep that information confidential."


    Without further delay, we exited our room. Ashley wore the princess costume my mother had given her, embodying the role with grace, while Jonah embraced his role as a paladin, ready to safeguard all of us in our village. Upon reaching the hospital, we approached the first nurse''s station, eagerly opening our bags in anticipation of the candy that awaited us.


    "Trick or treat!"


    While Ashley and Jonah busily collected as much candy as their bags could hold, I took a moment to approach the nurse stationed at the desk. "Could I ask you a question?"


    "Sure." The nurse said with a smile.


    "I''m looking for a girl who''s staying here. Her name is Amanda. Would it be possible for you to tell me her room number?"


    The nurse gave me a curious glance before turning her attention to the computer. "She''s in room 344, on the third floor."


    "Thank you." As I turned back to Jonah, I caught him in the act of trying to coax more candy from the nurse. "I found out where she is now. Can we head over there?"


    "Sure."


    "I''ll hang back for a bit. There''s something I need to talk to Angela about." Ashley said.


    Jonah took his place behind my wheelchair, beginning to push. "What''s the hurry? I thought the plan was to collect as much candy as we could get."


    "That''s part of it. But I also want to visit Amanda."


    "Are you planning to ask her about the wish you have in mind for her?"


    "Yes, that''s exactly what I''m going to do. Let''s head to the elevator and go up to the third floor."


    Upon the elevator doors slid open, we were greeted by an attendant. "Hello there, boys! Oh, that''s a cool mask!"


    I took off my mask and noticed the woman had a pendant on her hat depicting an angel playing a trumpet. Recognizing her instantly, I offered a knowing smile. She leaned in, whispering, "I know which floor you boys are headed to. Just keep it between us that I''m here, okay?"


    Suddenly, the elevator closed its door, and the button with the number three illuminated.


    "I didn''t touch anything," Jonah said. "I bet she''s around us. It''s the only explanation I can think of for why everything just started working on its own."


    The Godmother giggled.


    I readjusted my mask over my face, choosing not to dwell on his speculation. As the elevator doors opened once more, we found ourselves on the third floor. "We''re looking for room 344."


    "The room is down this hallway, near the nurse''s station, which is convenient for me."


    Jonah paused briefly to snag some candy from a jar at the nurse''s station. Taking advantage of the moment, I removed my mask. Just then, I caught sight of Amanda stepping out of a room. Her eyes widened in surprise, and a smile started to spread across her face upon seeing me.


    "Samuel!"


    Amanda quickly closed the distance between us, wrapping her arms around me in a tight embrace. "I''m so happy to see you again."


    "I find it hard to stay away, which is why I''m here."


    Amanda confidently guided my wheelchair, moving us away from the bustling nurse station. "I bet your friend is still at the station. We don''t have much time, so we''ll need to keep our conversation brief."


    We entered a room distinctly lacking in Halloween festivity. "No Halloween decorations?"


    "This is a hospital room; they tend to decorate only the rooms back in the village area. You''re quite a distance from your room in the village. What are you guys up to today?"


    "We''ve been going around trick-or-treating, and... I also wanted to see if I could find you."


    She blushed at my words. "Well, I''m glad you made the effort to come. Unfortunately, I''m due for another treatment in five minutes. My condition hasn''t been getting any better."


    Feeling this might be the moment to broach the subject of the wish, I hesitated before asking, "Would you like to have more time?"


    She became curious about my question. "More time?"


    "Amanda, I am in possession of an artifact that could grant you more time."


    "Are you talking about more time as in... living longer?"


    I nodded with excitement.


    "I prefer not to. I''m sorry if that''s not the answer you were hoping for. I''ve heard about that artifact, The Godmother''s Pen, it was offered to me once, and I''ve chosen not to use it. I have my reasons."


    Her response struck me as unusual. Typically, one might assume that someone facing a terminal illness would desire more time to live.


    "But I want to spend more time with you. Don''t you feel the same way?"


    "I do, but..."


    Suddenly, our conversation was cut short by a nurse who knocked on the door, holding a folder. "We''re ready for you, Amanda."


    Amanda leaned in close and placed a gentle kiss on my cheek. "It was amazing seeing you again, Sammy."


    Holding her teddy bear, Amanda walked out of the room, casting a look back over her shoulder that was tinged with sadness.

 Chapter 33: Farewell, Jonah

    Alone in the hospital room, I felt an emptiness expanding within me. Amanda''s words lacked the hope I had clung to, echoing the advice previously given by The Godmother about her firm resolve. Realizing that not even my intentions or actions could alter her fate plunged me into a whirlwind of emotions that overwhelmed me.


    I yearned to let my tears fall freely, accepting the harsh reality that the girl who had carved a special place in my heart would soon be absent from my life. Jonah entered the room, immediately perceiving that my exchange with Amanda had not gone as hoped.


    "It was that bad, huh?"


    "She was aware of The Godmother''s Pen. Yet, she didn''t want to consider making a wish to allow her to live longer, not even for me."


    Jonah, understanding the depth of my disappointment, quickly maneuvered my wheelchair towards the door. "Let''s go get more candy. Trust me, from my experience, girls don''t always mean what they say. It''s often just a way for them to demonstrate their strength."


    "How accurate is what you''re saying? Or are you just trying to make me feel better?"


    "Both. Now forget about what happened and focus on the task at hand, which is getting more candy."


    Once back in our room, Amanda''s response lingered in my mind. Jonah and Ashley sat beside me, equally at a loss for how to address or ease the turmoil I was feeling.


    "I want to help her, I really do."


    "What if you just write the wish? If it''s granted and she lives longer, maybe deep down, that''s what she wanted. Women like us tend not to mean what we say," Ashley said.


    I glanced at Jonah, noticing a triumphant smile spread across his face. "I told you," Jonah whispered.


    "If the wish only has consequences when both parties are in agreement, then it might not even come to pass if she truly doesn''t want it," Ashley said, walking over to her bed to fetch her notebook, and placing it in front of me. "Here. It would be best if you did it now. We don''t know how much time she has left."


    "I don''t know, guys; it just doesn''t feel right to me."


    "You want to spend more time with her or not?"


    "I do, but her refusal seemed genuine."


    "Sam, she''s right. I overheard at the nurse''s station that her treatments hadn''t been effective. It sounds like she might not have much time left," Jonah said.


    With the notebook laid out before me, I placed the pen''s tip on the page, hesitating for a moment before writing, "I wish that Amanda had more time to spend with me." After jotting down the wish, I placed the pen aside while clasping my hands over the written words. Unsure of what I was doing, I took a deep breath, then whispered, "This, I wish from my heart."


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    As soon as I finished writing the wish, the dials on the pen shifted, the count of words used dropped to 953.


    I glanced at Ashley, afraid of my actions. "Do not worry, nothing will happen to her."


    The tranquility of the moment was interrupted when the door to our room swung open. An elderly woman entered Nurse Angela by her side. "Jonah, we need to have a word with you, please."


    Intrigued by the nurse''s request, Jonah stepped out of the room.


    "I am going to eavesdrop, do not rat me out," Ashley said.


    The godmother materialized beside me, with a serious expression on her face. "You still did it, even when I warned you in good faith," she said, with disappointment in her voice.


    I lowered my head, knowing that every word she said was entirely true. "I''m aware. The choice didn''t sit well with me, either. My apologies."


    "I hope you can live with the consequences of your decisions, young Samuel." The moment she finished saying her words, The Godmother disappeared. Ashley returned to my side and took a seat. "Did you manage to hear anything?" I asked her.


    "It''s not good. It seems that the lady is planning to take Jonah away. There''s some issue with his parents."


    Then, the elderly woman re-entered the room, this time with Jonah in tow. "You have ten minutes to say your goodbyes to your friends and pack your clothes."


    "Jonah, what''s going on?" I asked the moment the old lady closed the door.


    Rushing over to me, Jonah embraced me tightly, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. "I have to leave with her, Sam. I really don''t want to."


    His statement made me curious, "Did she explain why she''s taking you?"


    His nod, accompanied by the stream of tears, conveyed the depth of his distress. "I am being removed from my parents'' custody."


    His revelation struck me. "Why? Where is your mother?"


    "She wouldn''t say much. Just that I have no other choice but to go with her. And they''ve finally figured out what''s wrong with me."


    Ashley looked visibly upset, her face mirroring the sadness of the moment. "You''re not terminally ill, are you?"


    "No." Jonah paused, wiping the tears from his eyes. "The old lady said something about me not needing to stay in this village any longer."


    He moved back to his cubie, hastily collecting as many of his belongings as he could. Just then, the elderly woman re-entered the room, carrying several pieces of luggage for Jonah. "You can use these for now. Don''t worry. The place you''re going to is filled with kids your age. You''ll make new friends quickly."


    Nurse Angela came over, observing our concerned expressions as we witnessed Jonah''s preparations to leave. "You seem troubled, Samuel. Is there something on your mind?"


    I look up to her, annoyed by the circumstances. "Why are you taking him away?"


    The nurse let out a sigh. "Jonah''s diagnosis turned out to be promising. He''s moving to a place where he can attend school and lead a normal life, just like any other kid. That should be a cause for celebration, shouldn''t it?"


    "Is he going to be taken to an orphanage?" Ashley asked. "He''s already shared the situation with us. There''s no need to withhold the truth."


    Ashley''s behavior was that of a fighter, possessing a keen ability to detect dishonesty¡ªa quality I had observed in her since my arrival in the village.


    "Yes, he will be joining other children at Oxford''s House for displaced kids. That''s all I can disclose about his situation, so I''d appreciate it if we could leave it at that," Nurse Angela said.


    Jonah completed his packing and approached Ashley, giving her a heartfelt hug before digging through one of his bags to pull out his pirate hat. "Sam, I want you to have this."


    "I can''t take it. You''re going to make new friends, and who knows, maybe we''ll come to visit you."


    Closing his eyes and placing the pirate hat on my lap, "I will make new friends, but this is for you to remember me every time you see it."


    "Sharing adventures with you was amazing. Hopefully, we''ll see each other again."


    As the elderly woman took hold of the luggage, she began to escort Jonah out of the room. He threw me one last look, offering a half-hearted smile as a silent goodbye. Nurse Angela then came over to me, subtly sliding a letter under my pillow. Leaning closer, she whispered, "This is a letter from room 344."

 Chapter 34: The Letter

    As the door shut behind them, a heavy silence enveloped the room. Despite Ashley''s presence beside me, the impact of Jonah''s departure was overwhelming, leaving a tangible void. The experience underscored how profound changes can dramatically alter the course of our lives, especially when it involves those, we presumed would accompany us on our journey through challenging times. Yet, I wasn''t the only one grappling with loss.


    Ashley, too, was confronting a harsh reality, one that plunged her into a state of despair. With her gaze downcast and her hands frozen in her lap, a solitary tear traced a silent path down her cheek, staining her pink sweater. When I reached out to comfort her, she instinctively drew her hand back, a reflexive gesture of her inner turmoil.


    "I''m sorry, Ashely. I know he meant a lot to you."


    "I never told him the truth; I never found the courage to." Gently removing her pink hat along with a wig, she exposed the scars left by her treatments, her head bare from the loss of her hair.


    "I''ve always wanted to be strong, at least that''s what my parents always tell me. But I don''t have that strength anymore. I wanted to tell him; that my heart feels alive when he is around me. Jonah was a goofy guy, and sometimes a little dumb, but those were the qualities of him I loved the most."


    "I''ve always aimed to be strong, that''s what my parents encouraged me to be. But I''m not feeling that strength anymore. I wanted to tell him... When he''s around, my heart feels like it''s truly alive. Jonah might have been silly and a bit clueless at times, but it was those very traits I cherished most about him."


    "He saw beyond any disguise you wore. Jonah always recognized the kindness in your heart. He mentioned to me how one of your greatest strengths was your toughness in every situation. I think you should wear your wig proudly and confront what comes with the same resilience you''ve always shown. That''s what Jonah would have wanted for you."


    As tears streamed down her face, a smile began to break through. She hugged me tightly, a gesture filled with understanding that I could never replace Jonah in her life. Then, she got up from my bed and walked back to her cubie, turning off the lights.


    What happened to Jonah was not in any way fair Removed from all he held dear, he was thrust into unfamiliar territory. Yet, I was confident in his resilience and his ability to thrive under any circumstance.


    Motivated by curiosity, I reached for the letter Nurse Angela had discreetly placed under my pillow, mentioning it originated from Amanda''s room. Eager to discover its contents, I searched beneath the pillow until my fingers brushed against the envelope. The front bore my name, elegantly written in cursive. Carefully, I extracted the letter from its envelope and unfolded it, preparing to absorb the words Amanda had felt compelled to share with me.


    "Samuel,


    I hope you don''t find this letter unusual as I am having a difficult time expressing my feelings to you. At this point in my life, I have accepted what life has given me. My parents wait for me, as I walk through the little time I have left.


    One day, I came to see my friend, Jonah. That decision changed the way I saw my life. I found a person who was kind and humble. I saw the beauty of your soul through your eyes and immediately, I fell in love with you. The time we spent together was the best time I have ever had in my life. But one thing is certain; we both are marked by death and our time soon will expire.


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    The treatment provided to me has yielded no results in weeks, it''s spreading, and my time will soon be over. I wanted to tell you, thank you, for being the gleam of hope I''ve looked for a long time. Even if the situation were to be different, and we spent more time together, at one point, we would both suffer. One of us will reach the finish line first than the other, bringing more despair into our lives.


    For years I wondered if I would ever find the missing pieces of my heart, and finally, I found them, inside of yours. Please, do not come looking for me. Let me fade away with time and return to my parents who are waiting for me on the other side.


    With love,


    Amanda.


    As I continued reading, my hands began to tremble, overwhelmed by a profound sense of despair. It was hard to grasp how someone could embrace the concept of death with such resignation, accepting it as their sole path. Driven by a newfound resolve, I didn''t hesitate to press the assistance button near my bed. I was determined to speak with her directly, to understand why she seemed to be relinquishing her hold on life when there was still time left for her.


    The door swung open, and Nurse Angela entered the room. "You needed help with anything?"


    "I need my wheelchair, please."


    The nurse was surprised by my request. "Your wheelchair? Are you planning to go anywhere?"


    "Could you just bring the wheelchair, please?"


    "Samuel, we have a curfew in effect. It''s late, and I can''t permit you to wander around the village by yourself."


    "Great, thanks! That means you are coming with me?"


    "Absolutely not!"


    Unwilling to be held back, despite my inability to walk, I clutched the bed''s handles with all the force I could muster and tried to lift myself out. Immediately, I tumbled to the floor, pain flaring up as I landed.


    "Samuel!"


    Quickly, she came to my aid, lifting me from the ground and settling me into my wheelchair. "Are you out of your mind? Why would you take such a risk?"


    With tears welling in my eyes, I handed over the letter that Nurse Angela had slipped under my pillow. She unfolded it and began to read, her initial tense expression softened as she reached the end of the letter.


    "Oh, Sammy. I''m sorry, I understand now."


    "Please, Angela, I need to see her."


    "Just this time. If the coordinator finds out I have taken you out of the village, I could get in trouble."


    With a hopeful grin, I offered a suggestion for any potential inquiries. "Just tell them I fell off the bed and you wanted to make sure nothing was broken."


    "Let''s move before we''re seen."


    As she navigated the wheelchair through the village towards the hospital, curiosity got the better of me, prompting a question about Amanda. "Do you have any information on what happened to Amanda''s parents? Or is that another case you''re not allowed to discuss?"


    Reflecting on my question, Angela momentarily halted before coming to a stop. "Her parents passed away in a car accident three years ago. Amanda was just nine then. She was initially taken to the city''s old hospital by her aunt, who, upon learning of Amanda''s terminal illness, never returned for her."


    This revelation deepened my connection to Amanda, providing insight into her permanent residence in the village.


    "Amanda was among the first to move into Hopeland Village and remains the sole survivor from the group of children who arrived the same year she did. Ashley and Jonah only joined us six months ago."


    With this new understanding, I harbored a hope that Amanda would grasp the reason behind my late-night visit. I wished to persuade her to reconsider her stance on life, hoping she''d see a reason to fight a little longer.


    ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥ ? ? ? ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    In an unexpected gesture, Makayla rose from her seat and reached for Amanda''s teddy bear resting on the couch.


    "I love it. It''s unbelievable that you''ve kept this teddy bear all these years."


    "Amanda was my first true love. She''s someone I''ll never forget, as long as I live."

 Chapter 35: Teddy Bear

    I stood up from my seat, noticing the storm outside starting to subside. I moved to light the remaining candles, adding more brightness to my humble living quarters. My eyes drifted to the wall above the couch where Makayla sat, spotting the pirate hat Jonah had given me.


    "Just above you, there''s the pirate hat Jonah had gifted me."


    Makayla, holding Amanda''s old teddy bear, turned around. She climbed onto the sofa, grabbed the pirate hat, and placed it on her head before racing off to the mirror to admire her reflection.


    "How do I look?"


    With a smile, memories of my own childhood in Hopeland Village flood back. "You look wonderful. At your age, I too fancied myself as the captain of a pirate crew, embarking on quests for treasure on islands that others dared not visit."


    Makayla continued to gaze at her reflection, holding Amanda''s beloved teddy bear closely. "I dream of having friends like Ashley and Jonah. Life would seem so much more exciting and fuller of joy."


    "Friends who truly want to be part of your life will show up when you least expect them. Not everyone you meet will be a friend, but a select few will genuinely care about you and make your life richer."


    "You really should meet my brother. You two would hit it off instantly. The way you talk about yourself reminds me so much of him."


    "We''ll consider that after the storm has settled. But for now, let''s get back to the story. I want to finish it so we can both get some rest."


    Eagerly, she scampered back to the sofa and settled in, ready to hear the rest of my tale involving the Godmother.


    ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥ ? ? ? ©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥©¥


    I shut my eyes, silently reassuring myself that everything would be okay. Deep down, I felt a strong intuition, an almost tangible sense that change was on the horizon for me too. Upon reaching the hospital, Nurse Angela led us towards the elevator.


    "Okay, let''s get going."


    As the elevator doors opened, the coordinator exited and immediately noticed me.


    "Angela, why is young Samuel out of his room this late at night?"


    Angela, caught off guard, hesitated for a moment, searching for an explanation. Fortunately, I had earlier staged a fall from my bed, injuring my elbow. I presented my elbow to the coordinator, showcasing the scrape.


    "I fell off my bed. I was being naughty."


    The coordinator scrutinized the injury, adjusting her glasses. "That looks like it could become infected. Given your medical condition, you need to be examined right away." She then redirected her attention to Angela. "Have you informed Dr. Deveraux?"


    "I believe he was checking a patient in room 344 on the third floor. We were on our way there."


    The coordinator nodded in understanding. "Alright, I''ll step aside then," she said, making room for us to enter the elevator. Just as we were about to move, she added, "One more thing, young Samuel." She paused, fixing her gaze directly on me. "Behave yourself."


    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    "It won''t happen again."


    As the elevator doors slid shut, the coordinator''s watchful eyes lingered on us until she was out of sight. Once hidden from view, Angela''s tense posture softened, relieved that the coordinator hadn''t pressed for more details.


    "I am going to be honest with you; I was not expecting to find her here."


    "You''re welcome," I said with a playful smile crossing my face.


    "Yes, you did good. Thank you."


    Upon reaching the third floor, the elevator doors parted right by the nurses'' station. Angela opted to pause there, exchanging greetings with the other night-shift nurses. It was then that I spotted Amanda, motionless in her wheelchair, just outside her room. She was staring intently at her door when suddenly, the Godmother materialized before her.


    At that moment, I distinctly heard the Godmother say, "It''s time." She extended her hand, gently touching Amanda''s forehead with her index finger. A radiant burst of light enveloped us, with Amanda gradually bowing her head. I felt the world around me stop; every single emotion I''ve felt all those weeks piled up into a sudden blast inside my gut, that froze every cell in my body. Amanda''s teddy bear slipped from her grasp, dropping to the floor as her life began to fade away.


    In a state of panic, I started to shake my wheelchair back and forth, shouting at the top of my lungs.


    "No! - wait! Don''t do this to me!" I screamed, as loud as I could, but it was too late. I watched helplessly as the Godmother took Amanda''s spirit by the hand, leading her towards the light.


    In a desperate bid for autonomy, I fiercely gripped the hand rims, propelling the wheelchair to spin of my own volition. My hands possessed an unusual strength, causing the chair to tilt and ultimately cast me onto the floor. The commotion drew the immediate attention of the nurses, who rushed to aid me as I grabbed Amanda''s teddy bear, pulling it close.


    The situation spiraled into turmoil; Amanda''s still form remained in her wheelchair as the nurses attempted revival efforts. I realized then I would never have the opportunity to express my true feelings to her. The fear of this unspoken truth was overwhelming as if a significant part of my existence had been torn away. The anguish was excruciating, surpassing any physical ailment. Tears streamed down my face without restraint, as I silently witnessed Amanda''s departure from this world.


    After a while, nurse Angela returned me to my room, my shirt soaked in my own tears. I held her teddy bear on my lap, remembering the great time we shared together. The nurse stood in front of me, touching my hands with care.


    "I am deeply sorry, Samuel. Witnessing her departure is something that won''t be easy to forget."


    I wiped the tears on my face, still gazing at Amanda''s favorite teddy bear. "She reached the finish line first, that''s all."


    "Okay let me help you get in your bed, it''s really late."


    "Could you please leave me alone for a while? I''ll call if I need anything,"


    Angela acknowledged my request with a nod and exited the room, leaving me in solitude. Gathering my strength, I tried to stand and managed to take a few steps towards my bed before collapsing to the floor once more. Lying there, I was overwhelmed by a deep sense of loss, my face truly showing the depth of the love I felt for her.


    As I lay on the ground, enveloped in grief, an unexpected comfort came in the form of a helping hand. This gentle force lifted me from the floor and carefully placed me back on my bed. When I opened my eyes, I was met with the compassionate gaze of the Godmother standing before me. Her presence calmed my aching heart, feeling empathy radiating from her as she seemed to share in my sorrow.


    With tender care, she took Amanda''s teddy bear and placed it beside me, a gesture that felt like a bridge connecting me to her memories. The Godmother''s presence, in that moment of deep vulnerability, offered a comforting reassurance that I was not alone in my grief.


    "I understand you have questions. In due time, all the answers you seek will be revealed. For now, you need to rest and allow your soul the time it needs to heal."


    Struggling to keep my eyes open, I felt the moment when she tucked the blanket around me and dimmed the lights, creating a tranquil environment for me to rest. I held Amanda''s teddy bear close to my heart, as my tears gently fell over its fur. Slowly, sleep began to envelop me, it provided a temporary respite from the pain, a momentary pause amid my grieving heart''s journey toward healing.

 Chapter 36: Breaking Emotions

    That night, following my interaction with the Godmother, I was engulfed in an impenetrable darkness. I felt adrift in a sea of dark shadows, as an acute feeling of hopelessness embraced me with tenacity. Then, unexpectedly, a beam of light pierced the gloom, gradually expanding over me. Its warmth, reminiscent of the Godmother''s comfort, instantly dispelled all fear and doubt the moment it touched me.


    As the light grew, a figure slowly materialized within its brilliance¡ªit was Amanda. She reached out to me, and without hesitation, I moved towards her, our fingers entwining, embodying the connection and shared emotion between us. A smile lit up her face, a reflection of deep love and understanding that I could clearly see in her eyes.


    "I am sorry, I couldn''t do anything for you. I tried the best I could, yet I was unsuccessful in gaining more time for us."


    Miraculously, I stood up from my wheelchair effortlessly, an ability that had eluded me for a long time. Gently, I took her hand and pressed it against my cheeks, closing my eyes to savor the softness of her touch, a sensation I thought I''d never feel again.


    "You don''t need to blame yourself for anything.," Amanda said. "I chose to be with my family, there was nothing you could really do about it."


    As she spoke those comforting words, a man and a woman emerged into the luminous embrace, their likeness to Amanda undeniably clear¡ªthey were her parents.


    "Before I met you, I was alone, struggling against life''s tumultuous currents by myself. But your journey doesn''t have to mirror mine. You are surrounded by love¡ªparents who adore you, friends who value you deeply. These are the pillars upon which you can build a meaningful life."


    "I just wanted to be around you as long as I could."


    "I will always be close to you. Just because I''m no longer here in a physical form, it doesn''t mean I''ve forgotten about you."


    Taking my hands, she gently placed them over her heart. "Do not mourn my passing, for I continue to exist in spirit and soul. I will live on in your memories, forever a part of you, and I''ll be there to support you whenever you need me most."


    I woke up abruptly, my mother shaking my hands to grab my attention. "Sammy the time is past 10 o''clock in the morning. You haven''t taken your medicine yet."


    Beside my bed, a plate of breakfast was placed on a folding table, presumably left there by the nurse who allowed me some rest after last night''s events. Amanda''s teddy bear, lying next to me, served as a gentle reminder that her spirit continued to watch over me.


    "That is a beautiful teddy bear. Who gave it to you?" My mother asked.


    "It was Amanda''s. She passed away last night." Saying this brought the pain of her loss to the surface again, and tears started to well in my eyes, as I remembered the moment the Godmother took her away.


    "Oh, sweetie!"


    As my mother moved to embrace me, a shadow flitted across my window. It was then I realized that everything around me had paused¡ªmy mother frozen in place, my father''s action of pouring coffee into a mug halted, with the coffee seemingly suspended in mid-air. Time itself had stopped, and I was the only one aware of it.


    "Let''s hope this conversation is brief and to the point." The Godmother had appeared in my room once again, but her appearance had drastically changed from before. She now wore a black crown and sported a pair of black wings that unfurled to span the length of the room.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    "I have granted you a chance to speak with Amanda. I am pleased that you were receptive to the invitation."


    "Thank you, that meant a lot to me. I understand now why she couldn''t accept the wish I had for her. But I can''t move past her death; it feels like there''s a fire burning inside my heart."


    "That''s the power of love, Samuel. You possess something truly remarkable, a feeling so potent that even I find myself envious. To live through such a deep emotion, being able to shed tears, to feel despair to a point, that your heart begins to crumble, those are emotions I''ll never be able to experience."


    Her words filled my heart with anger, bringing sadness and tears back into my eyes. "There is nothing to be jealous about!"


    Acting on impulse, I rose from my bed, moving past my mother who remained motionless in time. With tears streaming down my face, I retrieved the pen from beneath my pillow and extended it towards the Godmother. "Here, take your artifact back. In exchange, I want you to bring her back, along with her parents."


    The Godmother''s face fell into an expression of disappointment. "The exchange must be equal; you are aware of the rule."


    After a moment''s consideration, without any hesitation, I nodded in agreement. "I''ll exchange my life for Amanda''s. It''s the only way I can contribute to her happiness."


    Closing her eyes, the Godmother seemed to contemplate my offer deeply. As she did so, the room started to tremble, a physical manifestation of the significant choice being considered. "Are you truly prepared to exchange your life for hers? For a girl you''ve only recently met?"


    To seal the deal, I voiced the words: "This, I wish from my heart."


    A blinding light burst forth from the Godmother''s hands, engulfing the room as the pen began to fade from existence. I closed my eyes, ready to accept the consequences of my decision, assuming, this was the only to repay Amanda''s kindness.  However, contrary to my expectations, nothing happened.


    "Your emotions are guiding your decisions, young Samuel. While I possess the power to do many things, resurrecting the dead violates the natural laws governing the cycle of life. I am sorry, but I cannot bring back those who have passed."


    With my fists clenched tightly, a wave of anger surged through me, fueling a tempest of emotions. I lashed out, grabbing anything within reach and hurling it toward the Godmother in a futile attempt to express the turmoil within. After expending every last ounce of energy, I found myself kneeling before her, consumed by a deep sense of defeat and helplessness.


    "I don''t understand. Why does it hurt so much? Before I met her, I was aware that my time was nearly up. I had come to believe that my parents would be better off without me, that my absence would lift the burden I thought I had become to them. And now, the one thing that had brought me a semblance of joy and purpose has been ripped away from me, through a choice I never consented to."


    "Young Samuel, life is inherently filled with uncertainties. Every choice we make carries its own set of consequences and learning experiences. It''s important to learn from them, to rise, and to move forward once more."


    She then summoned the pen back into existence and extended it towards me. "I must return this to you, as the wish you sought could not be fulfilled."


    "I don''t want it. Please, give it to someone else."


    "That''s not how this works. I entrusted the pen to you because I recognized the purity of your heart. I believe in your capacity to make others feel valued and to inspire hope. You shouldn''t abandon your own journey simply because of a setback. Be thankful for the time you were able to spend with her. Hold onto those memories and let them enrich your life."


    "What''s the point? I will be gone soon anyway."


    The Godmother responded not with words, but with a gentle touch on my shoulder, and immediately, a surge of energy coursed through my body, invigorating me in a way I hadn''t felt before. "Your willingness to sacrifice your own life has imbued you with the Pen''s power. When the time comes for you to express your final wish, I will return to free your soul."


    In an instant, the Godmother disappeared, leaving no trace of her presence. Time resumed its natural flow, taking my parents back into the ordinary rhythm of life. My father, caught in the act of overfilling his coffee cup, was oblivious to the sudden shift. My mother, quick to react, turned to assist him, unaware of the transformation occurring behind her.


    "Ray! Stop it, you''re making a mess on the floor."


    "Martha... look behind you," my father said, his voice imbued with surprise as he finally noticed me, standing independently in the center of the room, a sight he hadn''t expected.


    Drawing in a deep breath, I stood there, absorbing the reality of the moment and the gift the Godmother had imparted to me. The energy that filled me, the sense of purpose, and the power now residing within, it all felt like I had been given a second chance to a new life.

 Chapter 37: The Orphanage

    Unaware, Makayla had given in to exhaustion and drifted off to sleep. As the evening progressed, the lights in the living room dimmed to nothing, allowing the shadowy embrace of the stormy night to enclose us. I picked up Amanda''s Teddy bear and gently placed it near Makayla, hoping it would provide her with the same comfort it had offered me for many years. Settling into my recliner, I draped a blanket over my feet and soon fell asleep for the remainder of the night.


    When I woke up, it was to the gentle caress of the rays of the sun. Casting a glance toward the couch, I realized Makayla had left some time ago, and Amanda''s teddy bear was missing as well. Just then, Whiskers, seemingly out of nowhere, hopped onto my lap, his presence a silent demand for his morning meal.


    "I bet you''re hungry, eh?" I said, offering Whiskers a gentle pet. "Alright, let''s get you some food."


    Rising from my chair, I made my way to the kitchen. A sudden breeze caught me by surprise, accompanied by a shadow that darted through my windows. The gust swirled within my home, whisking papers off my desk into the air. As I spun around to investigate, I was greeted by the sight of the Godmother standing in my kitchen, her majestic black wings spanning the space before she gracefully retracted them.


    "It''s been a long time," The Godmother said. "How''s life?"


    With a sigh, I continued my task of pouring food into Whiskers'' bowl, addressing the Godmother without turning to face her. "I know why you''re here. Someone has sought the pen. But I''ve made it clear to her that she can''t have it."


    "Or maybe it''s time," The Godmother said. "You haven''t opened your life to anyone in sixty years. Perhaps it''s time to reassess your stance. That girl exudes an energy similar to yours at her age. Her motivations might be just as genuine."


    "I felt it. She is pure of heart. But I don''t want her to go through the suffering I''ve experienced."


    The Godmother moved closer, her hands gently coming to rest on my shoulders, grounding me with her touch. "You don''t know what the future holds. Living for centuries, trapped in the same cycle, isn''t truly living. The path to healing your pain is through the joy of others. Remember, life is short for most, and yet here you are, still a step away from the finish line."


    Her words triggered a cascade of memories within me. I remembered the struggles of my youth, the friends who had stood by me, and those who had appeared just when I needed them most. Lollipop girl, pirate boy, and cowgirl¡ªeach had played an important role in my journey, their presence and support fueling my belief in myself and giving me strength to endure life, until it was my time to move on.


    "You''re right, it''s time for me to let go. I''ve held on for far too long. Do you think I''ll be able to see them all again?"


    "Anything is possible."


    She offered me a warm smile before turning and soaring out of my kitchen. I stood there for a moment, watching Whiskers polish off his meal. He then purred contentedly, weaving around my legs in a bid for attention, possibly hoping for a second helping.


    "What do you think about a trip to the orphanage? Would you like to keep me company?"


    Whiskers stared at me, unsure of what I just said. "Maybe I''ll let you enjoy the recliner while I visit the orphanage?"


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Whiskers meow.


    "I Knew you would say that, Traitor."


    I took my coat and grabbed my favorite hat, casting a final glance around the store. The change looming ahead felt monumental, promising to end the solitude I had endured for so long. Each item on the shelves held a personal connection to me, a memory or a chapter in the story of my existence. The thought of parting with them made the impending transition even more difficult to accept. Into my bag, I carefully placed the old pirate hat, wondering if its original owner ever thought about the possibility of having it back.


    I sighed, as I closed the gate in front of the store, feeling nostalgic about the many years I spent protecting my treasures. With a newfound purpose, I initiated my journey toward the orphanage, merely two blocks away from my shop.


    Reaching Oxford''s House, I was met with the lively scene of children playing at the entrance. Walking to the center desk, I noticed it was almost hidden beneath mounds of paperwork. A woman seated behind it showed no sign of noticing my arrival, her distraction caused by the towering stacks of papers lying in every corner. I leaned in, finding a narrow gap between the piles to grab her attention.


    "Hey there."


    "If you''re here to visit a child you''re planning to foster, I''ll need you to wait a bit. Anything else can wait until tomorrow."


    I understood the pressure she was under. I knew I needed to get her attention, and tomorrow was not an option for me. "I''m here to make a donation to the orphanage."


    At the mention of a donation, she instantly rose from her chair, a half-smile revealing her yellowed teeth. "Hello, welcome to Oxford''s House, where every child finds a home."


    "I need you to call the coordinator; he is expecting my donation."


    "Absolutely. I''m calling him immediately."


    I took a seat on a bench near the reception, observing the children at play, their laughter and energy echoing through the old wood of the century-old building. Almost immediately, my attention was drawn to a girl weaving her way among the children, holding a teddy bear in her hand, strikingly similar to the one Amanda had left behind. Makayla navigated through the groups of kids with ease, intervening in their minor disputes with a natural grace.


    With a smile, I lifted my hand waving at her. "Makeyla!"


    Her face broke into a wide smile at the sound of my voice, as she hurried over. "Samuel! I just knew you''d come to visit. Are you here to get Amanda''s Teddy back?"


    Initially, her motive puzzled me, but it soon became clear Makayla had a specific reason for taking Amanda''s teddy bear. "Did you take the teddy to coax me out of my solitude?"


    "More or less," she said with a smile. "Are you mad at me?"


    "Why would I? I actually want you to keep it."


    "Really?"


    Exchanging words, I noticed a man walking through the bustling crowd of children, making his way towards us. This was someone familiar, someone I remembered from a visit a decade ago. He fetched a chair and placed it beside me, taking a seat with an amused expression.


    "I''ve never heard of a hermit leaving its home. What is going to be next? Frogs falling out of the sky?"


    "Jonah, it''s been a while since we last spoke. You look old."


    Jonah burst into laughter, a sound of genuine amusement. "And you haven''t exactly become more handsome yourself. What''s the purpose of this rare visit?"


    Makeyla, following our conversation with curious eyes, couldn''t hold back any longer. "Samuel, you know Mr. Lumbar?"


    "His first name is Jonah."


    Her eyes sparkled with recognition, connecting the dots between the name and the tales I had shared with her. "Jonah, as in Jonah from your stories?"


    I nodded. "Yes, that Jonah. He''s quite the character, isn''t he?"


    A smile broke across her face as she bubbled with enthusiasm. "I have to go tell my brother about this!"


    "Seems like you''ve been making new friends. It''s good to see you stepping out of your shell. How did you two meet?" Jonah asked.


    "It''s quite a story. Maybe I''ll share it another time. But today, I''m here to give you something," I said as I retrieved the pirate hat from my bag and placed it carefully on my lap. Jonah''s reaction was immediate; his eyes brimmed with nostalgia and a rush of emotions at the sight of it.


    "I can''t believe it, after all these years, you still have it."


    Holding the hat out to him, I made the gesture of returning a piece of his past. "It''s time I gave this back to you. It doesn''t serve me any purpose now."


    "I don''t understand. It was a gift from me. I gave it to you so that you could remember me."


    "Yes, but I am ready."


    Jonah grew curious about my comment. "Ready for what?"


    "The last wish."

 Chapter 38: The Last Wish

    Upon hearing my words, Jonah''s behavior shifted dramatically. The surprise was evident on his face, fully aware of my firm resolution to prevent the artifact from being passed to another child. He understood the depth of my experiences¡ªthe despair it brought me¡ªand he knew well the artifact''s immense, unmeasurable power. Such power came with the risk of causing more issues than it could resolve.


    "When was the last time you came to see me?" Jonah asked.


    "Just after we graduated from college. It was the day I lost my mother."


    "Yes, I remember now. You were still talking about Amanda back then. You even had her teddy bear with you, carrying it around just as she did. Whatever became of that toy?"


    I looked in Makayla''s direction, where she was holding the teddy bear in a manner that mirrored Amanda''s attachment. Jonah caught the silent message in my gaze and smiled, recognizing the significant emotional journey I had undergone. "I never thought you''d part with that bear. But I see a change in you, Sam."


    I pulled some documents from my bag and handed them to Jonah. "Please make sure Makayla and her brother have a place they can call home when they''re ready to step into adulthood. And, please, don''t forget about Whiskers. He might keep to himself, much like I used to, but he''ll still need some care and company every now and then."


    "Makayla''s brother? I''m not certain he''ll live long enough to manage the store with his sister."


    I placed my hand over him, giving him a warm smile. "I assure you, he will."


    "You don''t have to sacrifice yourself for someone you have never met," Jonah said.


    "You remember when I first met you? Back in Hopeland?"


    "I remember."


    "You once told me, if I ever came into possession of the pen, that I should save a wish for you. You expressed a desire to be free."


    "Yes, but my illness wasn''t natural. I wasn''t genuinely sick. The reality was my stepfather had been poisoning me over time. The reason behind his actions remains a mystery to me. Given these circumstances, a wish from the pen couldn''t have altered my situation."


    "But you were almost dead, once," I said, lowering my head and intertwining my hands.


    "I need to apologize for the actions I took. The Godmother had informed me that you were caught at the threshold between this world and the other side, on the brink of death due to unnatural causes. In the aftermath of your confrontation with your fears, on that critical night, as the doctors were tending to you, I made a wish on your behalf. Regrettably, the consequences of that wish were far greater than I had anticipated, leading to your removal from your parents'' care and our separation from Ashley and myself. At that point, I wanted to part ways with the pen, as I began to understand that for every good intention I had while writing those wishes, a negative outcome must arise to balance every aspect of our lives."


    "You never said anything about making that wish...Why?"


    "I was scared you''d blame me for everything you went through. To me, you weren''t just a bunk buddy; you were the only real friend I had."


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Jonah''s response was a smile, warm and forgiving, as he placed the pirate hat gently on my head. "Well, mate! Ready to set sail on this new adventure?"


    "Absolutely captain!"


    I watched Makayla playing around the entrance of the dormitories, Amanda''s teddy bear firmly in her hands. "Take me to see Makayla''s brother. I want to meet him. She speaks so passionately about him."


    "He is a great kid. He reminds me of us back in the village."


    As we moved past the reception area, Jonah stopped for a moment, watching the receptionist draw in paperwork. "Claudette, I''ll be in the infirmary if anyone comes looking for me."


    Claudette looked up, her eyes briefly settling on the pirate hat I was wearing. "Nice hat."


    The infirmary, at first glance, seemed modest, comprised of four medical rooms and the single attention of one nurse. "If you haven''t picked up on it, we''ve actually expanded our services to the children. Raising funds has become more challenging lately. Nowadays, we rely heavily on the generosity of the medical community to provide these kids with an opportunity for a normal life."


    We paused in front of a door marked with the number 4B. "This is his room."


    As we stepped into the room, we were unexpectedly greeted by a jet of water from a water gun.


    "Aaron!" Jonah yelled.


    The child''s head dropped the instant he realized he had splashed the unintended target. "Please, don''t be mad at me, Mr. Lumbar. I thought it was my sister entering my room."


    I couldn''t help but burst into laughter at the scene, quickly grabbing a magazine, rolling it into a makeshift tube, and speaking through it with exaggerated enthusiasm. "Captain! We are under attack, starboard side!"


    Jonah, playing along with the sudden shift in the atmosphere, dove behind a file cabinet for cover. "This is our moment, mates! Load the cannons!"


    Aaron''s laughter filled the room as he continued to spray water in every direction. "You''ll never defeat me! I am the lord of the oceans! No ship can survive my wrath!"


    In the midst of the chaos, Makayla walked into the room, only to be immediately drenched by her brother''s enthusiastic defense.


    "Mates! Abandon ship!" Jonah said, laughing at Makayla.


    "That was super fun! We should do that again! Please." Aaron said, as his gun ran out of water.


    I stared at his eyes, watching his innocence pour out like a mist in the mountains. Aaron, much like Makayla, possessed a pure heart, yet was hindered by an illness that isolated him from the joyful company of children his age.


    "Aaron, this is my friend, Samuel," Jonah said, introducing me.


    Reaching out, I extended my hand towards him, eager to make a connection. The moment our hands met, a surge of visions flooded my sight, an unexpected journey through moments and memories. Among these, I saw the Godmother, her presence a comforting beacon during the cold, lonely nights, standing vigil by Aaron''s side.


    "I will get some towels to dry all this water from the floor."


    "Thanks, Jonah."


    As Jonah exited the room, Aaron''s expression shifted. He lowered his head, his fingers twisting together nervously. "I want to say something, but I''m scared. You might laugh at me."


    "I won''t, I promise."


    "I have seen you, in my dreams. It''s strange finding you here, in front of me."


    "It''s good to finally meet you, Aaron. I have heard wonderful things about you."


    "Troublesome? May be right the word for me. Wonderful...I will not take that as a fact if it''s come from my sister."


    I leaned a bit closer, wanting to delve deeper into his thoughts and dreams. "Tell me, Aaron, if you had the chance to get out of this bed and lead a normal life, what would you do?"


    Aaron''s smile brightened the room. "I have a dream; it''s all I think about every day. Even knowing my time might be limited, I still hold onto the hope that I could become a doctor or a scientist, someone who finds cures for these diseases. I want to extend a helping hand to every kid in the world, to give them a chance at a normal life."


    Hearing his ambition and pure intent filled my heart with warmth. His voice carried a sincerity that resonated deeply, and his eyes sparkled with a determination that surpassed any I had seen at his age.


    "Those are very strong words. There is a lot of commitment and responsibility if you are able to realize your dream."


    "I understand. I believe I can do it; I have no doubt about it."


    Here was a young soul, embodying hope and determination in its purest form. In my heart, there was no longer any doubt: I had found the ideal recipient for the last wish.

 Final Chapter: The Thin Line between Life and Death

    I glanced at Aaron, recognizing that the moment to cross the finish line was finally here. He took my hand, offering a smile that conveyed more than any words could say, a silent communication of gratefulness and support. Despite this, fear lingered within me, doubts clouding my mind about the difficult decision. Then, another hand gently gripped my arm, the soft curls of her hair brushing against the sleeve of my shirt.


    Makayla carefully placed Amanda''s Teddy Bear beside her brother, an act of tenderness in a moment brimming with emotion. I looked at him once more, noticing sadness in his eyes¡ªa feeling born from a premonition of what was to come, something he had glimpsed in his dreams before. Turning to Makayla, I noticed a shadow of sorrow in her, a shared sense of impending loss.


    "Promise me, that you will look after Whiskers when I''m gone."


    Makayla wrapped her hands around my arm, as tears soaked through the sleeve of my shirt. "This is my fault. I should never have listened to the old lady. I wish I''d never broken into your store."


    I gently placed my finger under her chin, lifting her face, watching tears welling in her eyes. "You''ve been the greatest gift a man like me could ever receive. You have set me free."


    While holding Makayla close, the Godmother materialized behind us. Turning to face her, I was greeted by the warm, charming smile that had always felt comforting. "I think you should take another look at your surroundings," the Godmother said.


    Heeding her advice, I looked around the room, and to my surprise, I found pirate boy, lollipop girl, and cowgirl gathered around Aaron''s bed. The sight filled me with a rush of joy and nostalgia.


    "Guys! It''s been a long time! I''ve missed you all!"


    Makayla watched intently as I interacted with what, to her, seemed like nothing at all, her curiosity ignited by the unusual sight. "Samuel, who are you talking to?"


    I looked intently at the Godmother, harboring a hope that she would fulfill this old man''s one final request. "Please, it will never make sense to her unless you allow her to see."


    "Very well, just this time," the Godmother said.


    With a mere snap of the Godmother''s fingers, Makayla''s eyes widened in astonishment. A big smile spread across her face as she began to walk around, taking in the presence of all the children who had visited me back at my parents'' house.


    "Wow, you all are real!" she said, her voice brimming with excitement as she observed my friends smiling warmly at her.


    "I know all of them, sister. They have been visiting me for a while now."


    "You can see them too? And the Godmother?"


    Aaron, pointed towards Makayla''s direction, "She''s behind you."


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Makayla spun around and gazed upward, her eyes widening in awe at the sight of the Godmother''s majestic wings. With a warm smile, she reached out and took the Godmother''s hand. "You''ve been visiting my brother too?"


    "Me and my little helpers keep him company when you''re not around."


    For the first time in a long time, I felt joy. I am surrounded by the very entities that have infused my life with hope. Taking a deep breath, I began to walk slowly towards Aaron, with a newfound understanding that it was time to release the burdens of my past.


    "Are you ready to make your dreams come true?"


    He nodded, his eyes gleaming with a hopeful light of a future he thought was unreachable. At that moment, Makayla reached out to grasp my hand, pressing a piece of paper into it. "I know you will need this," she said, handing me a piece of paper. I took the paper and glanced at it closely.


    "Thank you, Makayla, but I won''t need to write the wishes anymore."


    Her eyes lit up with curiosity at my response. "Then how are you going to grant the wish?"


    "I don''t have to; I am the wish."


    As I closed my eyes, the lights in the room started to dim, creating an ambiance of calm and readiness for what was to come. Pirate boy, lollipop girl, and cowgirl took their places around the bed, their faces alight with smiles and cheer, evoking the same supportive spirit I had once dreamed of during my basketball days on the courts next to my parent''s house.


    A breeze swirled with force around me, as I extended my hand touching Aaron''s arm.


    As my hand touched Aaron''s skin, a radiant light emerged from the point of contact, signaling to me that the moment had arrived to finalize what I had set out to do. This moment mirrored those from the past when I wrote wishes with the hope of making other people''s lives better. Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes, drawing upon the same feeling of sincerity and conviction that accompanied me during my childhood time when I made those wishes. With clarity, I uttered the words that would bring the wish to fruition, "This, I wish from my heart."


    When those words left my lips, my mind was instantly flooded with vivid images. My mother appeared, her presence marked by a comforting smile as if to welcome a long-awaited reunion while I traded places with Aaron. Then, my father stepped forward, his hand resting on my shoulder in a gesture that radiated pride and affection, acknowledging the journey I had traversed.


    The dazzling light that surrounded us dimmed, finding myself in Aaron''s bed, the fulfillment of the wish achieved seamlessly, without any adverse effects. At that moment, another figure entered the room¡ªAmanda, her eyes conveying a multitude of emotions far beyond what could be expressed with words. Gently, she leaned in and softly kissed my cheek, her presence emanating a warmth that spread through me.


    "I''ve waited a long time, to see you again, my love."


    I got up from bed at the touch of Amanda''s hand, observing the transformation of my hands, now smaller, and my legs, which had reverted to those of a twelve-year-old boy. A smile unfurled across my face, unstoppable and bright, as decades of solitude melted away under the touch of the girl I had fallen in love with, a long time ago.


    Lollipop girl, with her radiant smile, took my other hand, her presence bright and comforting. Soon after, Pirate Boy, full of unceasing energy, joined us, running in front of me. Behind me, Cowgirl wrapped her arms around me in a warm embrace, completing the circle of companionship. There we were, all those I had cared for deeply throughout my life, united and pausing together at the edge of life and death, a moment that symbolized more than just an end¡ªit was a celebration of the journey and the bonds formed along the way.


    "I bet you can''t beat me on a one-on-one game." Pirate Boy said, and with a playful glint in his eye, he mimicked tossing a basketball into the air.


    A smile quickly spread across my face as I eagerly accepted his challenge. "I got good legs now, you better take back what you just said, I won''t be holding back."


    "I''m looking forward to this game."


    By the hand of the Godmother and surrounded by my friends, I smiled, walking across the finish line.


    The End.