Salted (9781310785696)
Page 29
Me.
You sound…
Ancient? The voice chuckled. I like your voice too, young one, though in truth you’re still finding it. Do not trouble yourself with Ishmael for now. A liar he may be, but the water is warm…isn’t it?
Garrett felt sudden warmth in his toes that crawled up his body. He ceased fearing the water. His brain no longer panicked. And the water did feel warmer. What’s happening to me?
Open your eyes, said the voice.
Garrett obeyed.
The stain of red no longer tainted the water. He saw no darkness here. No boundaries in this overpowering watery world. No edges for him to cling to. Garrett saw only an endless sea of blue, beckoning him to explore and revel in it.
Is this heaven?
This is your home, the voice said.
Garrett searched for the voice’s source. He could not locate it.
Are you ready to come back?
Yes, Garrett thought. He slowly ascended towards the surface. Are you the one Wilda spoke of?
I am, the voice said, already beginning to fade. Remember the wonder you felt when first meeting her—
The water felt warmer the faster Garrett rose. The light brightened.
Cast away your fear of the scorned ones—
Garrett closed in on the surface. Twelve…ten…eight…
Keep the memories of those you love safe within you.
Six…four…
Follow the one who turns his heart to stone, the voice said, barely above a whisper. Help him to see—
Four…two…one…
And follow your heart home.
Garrett opened his eyes.
***
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