Farewell Summer (Green Town 3)

‘That’s no answer.’

It’s the only one.

‘Were you …’

What?

‘Were you down in that tent today?’

What?

‘Inside. In those glass jars. Were you?’

In a way, yes.

‘What do you mean, “in a way”?’

Yes.

‘I don’t understand.’

You will, when we get to know each other.

‘What’s your name?’

Give me one. We always have names. Every boy names us. Every man says that name ten thousand times in his life.

‘I don’t …’

Understand? Just lie there. You have two hearts now. Feel the pulse. One in your chest. And one below. Yes?

‘Yes.’

Do you actually feel the two hearts?

‘Yes. Oh, yes!’

Go to sleep then.

‘Will you be here when I wake up?’

Waiting for you. Awake long before you. Good night, friend.

‘Are we? Friends?’

The best you ever had. For life.

There was a soft rabbit running. Something hit the bed, something burrowed beneath the blankets.

‘Tom?’

‘Yeah,’ said the voice from under the covers. ‘Can I sleep here tonight? Please!’

‘Why, Tom?’

‘I dunno. I just had this awful feeling tomorrow morning we’d find you gone or dead or both.’

‘I’m not going to die, Tom.’