Firefly Glen [PHE] kru

John’s eyes widened, and his jaw drooped, almost in disbelief. 

Before him, a story was told, a recollection of all that had happened while he was away, looking for lost sheep, the lambs of Heda, now, Skaigona. She had fallen from grace, or so she believed. John’s heart felt as if it was being squeezed, aching, what Skaigona said, he didn’t want to believe. He couldn’t help but stay silent, processing it all, his expression was solemn, as if he was in a daze. Heda was hurt, in more ways than one; physically, emotionally, religiously. 

Would things have been different if he hadn’t left? He shook the thought, because dwelling on the if’s and could’s wouldn’t do any good.

He needed extra time to think  of his response. He truly believed that there was still good in her, no matter what. 

“Heda- I mean, Skaigona…. There is no truth to that statement. If you weren’t meant to be a mother, then why would you have been blessed with children at all?” If birds weren’t meant to fly, they wouldn’t have wings, if the moon weren’t meant to shine, then the night would be dark and the sun wouldn’t shine. 

“If only I could’ve been there for you. To help you, and your new children.” That in itself was a surprise, especially for him. Yet, these children, too, were fatherless, and this hurt John, as did everything else. “How many of the children are with you? I wish to know them. What are their names?”

His voiced remained gently and steady. There was truth and meaning to each word he said. And this time, he would stick by her, he would step up, if only in his own mind, as their primary caretaker. He would care for his flock, bring them back to a better place, until he could do it no more. He would continue to pray, to ask for strength and guidance, to keep his faith in steadfast.