Sequoia Coast sea billows roll

He didn't want to look at his sister if all he would see was her coldness again. His thoughts of Judah were stricken enough. Please, not Dinah, too.

But her voice was different when she said his name. Frail - but softer, and she compelled him to turn.

And he might have changed his mind right there, the way her eyes still frayed with affection. She didn't hate him; she loved him, and he loved her --

and he wished Kai would see reason, and come, so he could tell Dee he loved her again and again, in a place she felt safe, instead here, for one last time.

The anger melted from Simeon's eyes, and for a moment, they were just kids again.

But they couldn't stay that way. Not anymore.

I know, he said softly. Understanding, though they'd exchanged only this look. He wouldn't make her go back.

You and John and Ava watch out for each other, he repeated the words mom hadn't said, but he felt in her gestures, her slight movements about, Mom and I will watch out for each other. And we'll work something out, he didn't know what that would be, but he hoped, and prayed desperately so, he wouldn't have to leave Dee forever. But this time, he didn't promise. I love you, kay? he said, eyes fixed on his sister. Drifting then to John. Wishing for Ava to have been here, too - but maybe it was easier that she wasn't.