Firebird (Revised)

Chapter 5- Fearless

   Even when I was older, he would comfort me from the dark dreams that kept me awake. I missed that very much.

   Astley gave me a small smile. “You had me quite worried.”

   “You had everyone in camp worried.” Another voice remarked. As the figure came into the light I recognized her as Miriam Abbott, Gallagher’s wife. She was a plump woman with bright red hair and rosy cheeks. Like Astley, she looked exhausted as if they’d both stayed up to watch me for days.

   “How long was I asleep?” I asked, messaging my throbbing head.

   Miriam handed me a canteen of cool, fresh water. “Quite a long time, dear. Got Mr. Rickett’s panties in a bunch, ya did.” She placed a pudgy hand on my forehead to check my temperature. “Well, whatever happened, you're alright now.”

   I didn’t tell her about my burning neck brand or aching body. I didn’t want to worry them any further. I felt guilty for doing so as bad as I did already.

   “That was a pretty little show you put on.” Astley grinned.

   I had completely forgotten about the game. I had done some sort of magic. It couldn’t have been me, someone else could have easily tricked me into thinking I did it only to make me feel good. “Was it you, Astley?”

   His brow furrowed. “Darling, I don’t let people win Show Off. That was all you.”

   “S’true.” Miriam agreed with a gleeful giggle. “Saw the whole thing. We were all flabbergasted ta tell ya the truth. Thought you would make a scene like Darrin.”

   I had to have done it myself. The energy that surged through me, the light in my arms then hands, the feeling of pure joy… that couldn’t have been anyone else. Then again, there was absolutely no way that I could have done what I might or might not have done. I rubbed my head, distressing myself further.

   Miriam tapped Astley’s shoulder. “We’d best let this one relax. Come now, Rickett. Ya can see your lady friend in the morning.”

   “Yes. Rest up, Bella. I’ll be near if you need me.” He pat my hand and stood reluctantly.

   I smiled the best I could despite the way I truly felt at the time. “Thank you both.”

   Astley waved as Miriam dragged him outside. I heard whispers as they exited and wondered how many were gathered in curiosity. How many even saw what had happened and what I had done?

   I lay back down, turned on my side to see the small, flickering light of the lantern. The little flame seemed so innocent. Like it couldn’t do any harm to anything of anyone, or burn down an entire circus tent. I didn’t understand where such a dream had come from. It didn’t even feel like a dream at all.

   I couldn’t sleep, I knew that already. So I thought, why waste time letting my mind linger on my horrible nightmares?