Episode 40

Miah sat back against the tree, and Ben stood at the firelight’s edge, looking into the flames.  “What is it?” she asked, hugging her knees to her chest.

He looked at her, taking a breath, and then shook his head. “Nothing.  Just…tired, I guess.”

“That's the worst excuse in the world.  Tired could mean anything,” Miah smiled.

He sat down beside her, leaning his elbows on his knees and looking down.  “Well, I do feel a bit weird...just one of those things that passes.  Like an itch or something.”

“Ah.”  Miah bit her lip and looked out at the moon.

Ben sighed, “I’m fine...I'll be okay.” She nodded and looked up at him, and he looked down at her, his eyes changing from a troubled look to a small smile.  “I’m just worried, I guess,” he sighed, looking into the fire once more. “What if we never get out of here?  What will we do even if we do get out of here?”  He let out his breath and scratched his head.

Miah looked down. It seemed hopeless.  “I guess I thought...I thought that when you came back, everything would be better, that I would know what was going on, and that I wouldn't have to worry.”

Ben gave her a wry smile and shook his head.  “Sorry to disappoint you.”

She shrugged and looked out into the darkness.  “I’m scared, Ben.”

He took her hand and gave her fingers a squeeze.  “I know.  We'll get everything sorted out soon, though, okay?  I won’t leave you; don’t be afraid.”

He kissed her forehead, and she closed her eyes.  “I just want to be safe again.”

“I’ve got you, Miah.”  He looked up at the night sky.  “I’ve got you.”