Chapter 40: Caressa Reunites with Michyle

Caressa’s POV:

Caressa stayed a few days and watched Mikaya as she began to glow in the healthy fresh air and under the warm rays of the sun. Her hair, eyes, and skin came more alive than Caressa had ever seen them. She knew then how unhealthy it was for them to live underground.

“Everything is so soft, and warm,” Mikaya said as Caressa gave her a bath before going to see Michyle. “Even the water,” Caressa took in a deep breath and smiled. She knew her daughter loved it here. Her daughter belonged here. When it was time for them to leave, Chara saw them to the flight deck.

“I’m a stranger here,” Chara said. “I am a stranger to Justun.”

Caressa could hear the anguish in Chara’s voice.

“What are you going to do?”

“I don’t know,” Chara answered. “Will you be headed back underground after you see Michyle?”

“Yeah,” Caressa said reluctantly. “You want to come back with us?”