I’M Home

Kyren and Lydel sprinted down the alleyway, their feet pounding against the dirt. The adrenaline from their escape still coursed through their veins, even though their pursuer had long since given up. But Kyren barely noticed—he was too eager to show off his newfound power.

Lydel, just a few months younger than Kyren, had developed his ability at the normal age of twelve. His power was strong—strong enough to earn him a place at the academy. But he hated how they treated the weaker kids. So he ran. His parents disowned him for throwing away their chance at a better life, but that didn't bother him much. They still let him sneak back in at night—as long as he came through the window.

Kyren grinned as the orphanage's fence came into view. Without breaking stride, he launched himself over it, clearing it effortlessly. Lydel followed, barely making it over. The barbed wire that used to snag him had long since been removed—Kyren had taken it down himself.

As soon as Kyren landed, a high-pitched voice rang out.

"Grandma, Grandma! Kyren just jumped the fence!"

Kyren's stomach dropped. He turned to see Irene, one of the younger kids, bouncing with excitement, her big brown eyes wide with awe. She opened her mouth to say more, but before she could, the front door burst open.

Grandma Windy shot out of the house, moving faster than any sixty-year-old woman had a right to. A relieved smile flashed across her face—then quickly vanished, replaced by a sharp, knowing glare.

"Don't you ever scare me like that again." Her voice was firm, but there was a tremble underneath. "I don't care if your powers developed, Kyren. You don't go pulling stunts like that."

She turned to Lydel, eyes narrowing. "And I know this is your fault. What did you two get yourselves into this time?"

Kyren stepped forward. "It wasn't Lydel's fault, Grandma. I promise. Can we go inside? I'll explain everything."

Grandma Windy exhaled through her nose but nodded. She turned toward the house, but before Kyren could lead her to a seat, she sat him down instead.

Without a word, she grabbed a plate from the counter—a slice of cake already waiting on it. A single candle flickered at the top.

Kyren's breath hitched.

Before he could say anything, Grandma Windy called for the other kids. They came rushing in, squeezing into the kitchen, their faces lit up with excitement.

Then they started singing.

Happy Birthday to you…

Kyren swallowed hard, his chest tightening. For a moment, he couldn't move. Couldn't speak.

Then he blew out the candle.

As soon as the flame died, the kids tackled him with hugs before scattering back to their games and chores.

Lydel pulled up a chair beside him, grinning. Grandma Windy sat across from them, her sharp gaze softening just a little.

"Alright, boy," she said, folding her arms. "Start talking."

Kyren took a deep breath. Then he told them everything.