Always a Brother

by Michael Shenk

  The little boy looked both ways as they began to cross, reaching protectively for the hand of his friend. He squinted up at the RCMP officer on her horse, face breaking into a grin. He stopped momentarily, looking straight into her eyes.

  He was safe! The abandoned baby was loved and healthy and safe! The smile that both softened and strengthened her features was a promise fulfilled, a promise of healing to come.

  “I got a new hat!”

  He waved at her, then, checking both ways once again, he ran forward, pulling his friend with him.

  “Come on, Sammy, let’s get you a hat!”

  The big men crossed the street at a more sedate pace in front of her. She saw one of the men nod at his brother and heard the quiet words he spoke.

  “See? Dis is good. You can always have a brother, you can always be a brother.”