They sat there for what, in normal time, must have been half an hour, Jeriko cradling Aurora as she buried herself in his arms crying. Even after her inconsolable sobs turned to small whimpers…then sniffles, and silence after, they sat there in much-needed silence. They needed this moment. He needed this moment.
He wanted to ask whether she was alright, but thought it best not to. When Aurora was ready, she’d be the one to break the silence. And finally…she did.
“Thank you.”
“For what?” Jeriko asked, laying his head on his sister’s head.
“For giving me time.” Aurora’s voice was light and child-like.
“Whenever you are ready is when we will move, Aurora. This is your journey, and I’m only here to be the strength that you need to get through it.” He said. When Jeriko told her this, he f
