In Which We Find Our Immortality
Epilogue: Reentering His World
Tess bit her lip nervously. Her fingers wound tightly around the fabric of her skirt, twisting and tugging. Several times she scolded herself, only to return to the stressful behavior.
She was sitting at the kitchen table inside the Highwind house. Shera was making sandwiches, Marlene was doing the laundry, and the three Highwind sisters were seated with Tess, looking just as anxious. Through the open doors they could hear Cloud speaking to Vincent as he prepared his chocobos. "It'll probably take us a few weeks to get to Cosmo Canyon," he was saying. "We've got supplies to last until then. This is the best for everyone."
"Yes, you're right," came Vincent's reply. "He's a good boy. Take care of him."
When everyone had returned to Rocket City, things had finally started to work out. They explained to President Matthews what had happened, and gave their assurance that the Dragons would never again be taunted by Jenova. Whether or not she believed them was anyone's guess; in the end, it was her husband who grudgingly corroborated their story. She apologized to the entire family, and aired a report stating Cloud's, Vincent's, and Collin's innocence.
But that hadn't been the end. Though the threat had ended and everyone was healed, a problem remained; still, no one trusted Collin anymore. He was a potentially dangerous variable in a city that feared him. Because of this, Cloud and Cid had spoken at length, then included the entire family. The outcome: Cloud was taking Collin away.
"Cheer up, girls," Marlene called the laundry room, having noticed the silence in the kitchen. "This isn't forever; you'll see him again."
"But Cosmo Canyon is so far," Elly complained, leaning with her elbows on the table. "When will we see him?"
"Next summer, when everyone meets, of course. After all, your father has his own plane."
The conversation ceased as someone began descending the stairs from the second story. It was Cid, carrying the last of Collin's luggage. And behind him, dressed in baggy jeans and a T-shirt, was the boy himself.
Tess pushed out of her chair. Her heart was fluttering, more so than if she were on stage before a hundred people. Collin was smiling, looking calm and prepared, but there was still a glint of something in his eyes; a bit of apprehension. Two days after expressing his true self to all of them, he was leaving. She didn't know what to think. Though she and Collin hadn't been good friends until recently, they'd gone to the same school since kindergarten; and now she wanted to stay with him more than anyone.
"We'll, this is the last of it," Cid declared, motioning for everyone to come outside. "Let's all see'em off."
The family--and Tess--moved into the front yard. Cloud and Vincent were waiting, and tide the last bag onto Bobbie's back. The golden chocobo warked softly in mild complain. Cloud patted her beak.
"I guess this is it," said Collin with a shrug. He surveyed the group--his family, his best friends--and grinned. "I want to thank you again--all of your--for believing in him. I know I've put you all through hell."
He didn't have to speak another word before Shera began to cry. He chuckled and hugged her warmly. "Thanks, Mom. You're the best."
"Oh Collin, take care," she replied, hugging him desperately. At last she released him. "You'll be okay, won't you?"
"Of course, Mom."
Collin then went around and bid farewell to each of them in turn, giving thanks and assurances. All three of his sisters hugged him at once, making him promise to write. He did, and at last came to Tess.
"Well, I guess…it's 'so long,'" Tess said hesitantly, even as she was trying to be cheerful. She would have done anything to know what he was thinking at that moment. "Rajiel's family is going to Cosmo Canyon for winter break, and she said I could come with them."
Collin's face brightened. "That's great. I'm…really going to miss you."
She smiled, grateful for his kind words. "I'll…miss you too. Write to me, won't you?"
"Sure."
There they paused awkwardly. Even if everyone was pretending not to pay attention, it was odd having to say good-bye with an audience. Tess gulped, gathering a bit of confidence. She leaned forward and kissed him gently on the lips, ignoring the giggles from his sisters.
Collin stiffened momentarily in surprise. When she pulled back they were both blushing. "For good luck," she explained sheepishly.
He stared at her a moment, as if debating, and then kissed her back. "Because I like you," he replied.
Tess blushed furiously as he smiled and moved away. Everyone was grinning. "You're embarrassing me," she complained, though she couldn't help but mirror the expression. "Take care."
"You too." Bobbie crouched so that Colin would have an easier time getting on. He situated himself on the animal's back, and waved. "I'll see you all soon."
Beside him, cloud mounted Nu. "I want to thank you all as well," he said seriously. "For taking care of my son."
Cid puffed on his cigarette, frowning to himself. At last he stepped forward, and extended his hand. "He's a great kid. Be good to him."
Cloud too the man's hand hesitantly, relief showing in his eyes at this show of faith. "Yes. I will."
"Damn right." Cid stepped back once more, putting a hand on his wife's shoulder. She was still crying softly. "Now get going before we make you stay."
Cloud nodded, and turned the chocobo about. Bobbie fell into step instantly, and the two started down the street; first at an easy pace, then into a sprint. The last of Collin that Tess saw was him turned in the saddle, waving good-bye with a bright smile on his face.
March 21st
Dear Cloud and Collin,
How have you been? It's been a hard winter, and we were worried about you down there. Best wishes from everyone here in Rocket City! We hope you all well. Everyone can't wait to see you.
For the past several months the doctors have been pestering Cid to quit smoking. They weren't making much progress until they got to Shera. Together they've cut him down to less than a pack a day, which is at least an improvement. Shera's recent victories, in fact, have inspired her, and she's trying to push for a private vacation for her ad Cid. So far, that issue hasn't budged.
Daryl is in training for softball, while at the same time studying for her first real high school finals. Samantha is going to be working with her father over the summer in the Engineering Department, which delights him to no end, as you can imagine. Elly, on the other hand, is more interested in her computer games, even though Tess has been pushing for her to join the performance ring at school.
Vincent is doing well, also; though he and both Matthews' are still on unsteady terms, the rest of Rocket City has adjusted to his presence again. More than that, I think he's finally adjusting to himself. A week ago he discovered his first gray hair. To be perfectly honest, I don't think I've ever seen him so happy.
Lastly, I myself am well. My secretary work has been paying off, and by the end of summer I'll be moving into my own apartment. It's about time, don't you think.
The meeting this year has been scheduled for Collin's birthday, as usual. I managed to get through to Yuffie, and she's promised to attend this time. I hope that both of you, as well as Nanaki and his family, will be able to attend this year. Tess is especially looking forward to seeing you again. But then, I'm sure her constant letters are enough to prove that.
Sorry, Collin; I promised to stop teasing you. But I can't help it. ©
With Love,
Marlene Wallace
P.S. See you soon
The End!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finally!
Let me know what you thought!
Return