Chapter thirty-six - Cain

"Promise me Cain." I wake with a start, jolting upright in bed and hearing my great grandmother's voice in my head as though she had just spoken directly in my ear.

Flame is sleeping soundly beside me, her warmth tempting me to lie back down and sleep some more, but the echo of the conversation in my mind, reminds me there's something I need to do.

"I'll be back." Kissing her forehead gently so she doesn't wake up, I slip out from the bed and grab my clothes, dressing as I hurry down the stairs and outside.

It's so peaceful as I wander slowly towards the hospital. The sky is still dark, the stars twinkling brightly and only a hint of orange is visible where the sun is creeping above the horizon and it feels like a lifetime has passed since I've felt calm enough to just enjoy being outside.

I don't know whether it's having died or perhaps having therefore lost the responsibilities that go with leadership or maybe even the relief that Flame is finally home and knows who she is, but ever