ManyWriters

The earth shook with a 4.2-magnitude tremor, causing pandemonium. Amid the frenzied crowd, I was knocked down, and in that frightening instant, I lost my grip on the child I was holding. Maxwell, oblivious to my plight, simply took his boss' sister's hand and departed without a word. Later, I returned to an empty home, feeling numb. A package of unused miniature parasols awaited me—a cruel reminder of a shared past. Without hesitation, I discarded the box and made a long-distance phone call. "Ms. Grace Fitzgerald, Air New Zealand welcomes you. Please report within 30 days," said the voice on

Tremors of Betrayal, A Flight from Heartbreak

Maxwell departed silently, his form fading into the twilight of the sinking sun. His outline, empty and remote, stood in stark opposition to the lively environment surrounding him.


As he vanished from sight, I continued my expedition around the isle, with New Zealand's panorama unfurling before me like a vivid reverie. I roamed through mountains and lakes, snow-topped peaks and expansive grasslands, immersing myself in the land's splendor.


Settling by Lake Tekapo, I unveiled the skylight of my recreational vehicle and observed the star-studded heavens. I imagined my sister had transformed into one of those celestial bodies, watching over me from the firmament.


In Oamaru, I playfully imitated the small blue penguins, stumbling about and experiencing a lightness of spirit I hadn't felt in ages. New Zealand's natural wonders served as a soothing balm for my tired soul, alleviating the weariness that had burdened me for so long.


Chapter 9