Of Sun & Moon (Midnight Guardian Series, Book 1)
Page 23
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A few miles from Keira and Colby, the very same words were being spoken by another.
“Say something. Please,” Ann’s father begged.
“It’s a lot for her to take, Bob,” Ann’s mother encouraged.
“I think it’s super awesome,” her little sister, Katie, cheered.
Ann just rolled her eyes at the three of them. It was her birthday after all. She was expecting cake and maybe a new phone or clothes, but not this.
Her father adjusted his glasses nervously. He couldn’t fathom why she hesitated to take her place in their family. “Ann, I need your formal answer. This is your birthright. As the eldest in your generation, it is up to you to accept or decline.”
“My birthright! My birthright? You’ve only just told me about this and I’m supposed to make my decision right now.”
His eyes softened and her mother, who had been watching the whole scene, decided to step forward. She placed a hand on Ann’s shoulder. It steadied and comforted her. When she started to speak, her voice was soothing.
“Ann, this isn’t a gift. This is what we are. As the eldest, if you deny it, you deny it for your generation of the family, including Katie. Plus, if one day you have children and they accept their heritage, you will not have the experience to guide them to use it wisely.”
Katie plopped down on the couch and began pouting, sure that her practical sister would pass on this incredibly cool birthday surprise.
Her mother continued, “You worry too much, Ann. We trust you. You are smart and responsible. You can handle this. In fact, you will be one of the most respected travelers in the history of our kind.”
“You’re just saying that because you’re my Mom.”
“I’m saying it because it’s true,” her mother smiled. “And you will guide your sister to be the same. Together you can do anything. Accept this. You deserve it.”
“Please Annie, this is so cool,” Katie badgered.
Ann nodded. Her mother always knew exactly what to say to make her feel better, but then her Dad chimed in.
“Before you decide, there’s one more thing we have to tell you. If you decide to accept and use your ability, it will be up to you to help your mother and I keep a promise.”
He really did have bad timing.