“Tell dad I love him so much.” I say past the lump in my throat. “Tell him I'm so proud to be his daughter and that I will visit OK? I'll come home every chance I get.”
Her arms surround me, squeezing tight.
“I will.” She whispers against my cheek.
Footsteps come up behind mum.
“I love you too.” The voice is echoey but I would recognise it anywhere.
My eyes snap open and mum spins in her seat with a choked sob.
Dad stands there but- not here. His body is ever so slightly transparent. A pearlescent blue glow surrounds him. He's here but doesn't seem solid. Like a projection. Otherwise he looks the same as he did the day I first saw him at the airport. Dressed in jeans, checked shirt and riding boots. His bushy beard is trimmed and his brown hair grazes his broad shoulders. His eyes sparkle as he gazes lovingly at the two of us. The crow’s feet in the corners crinkling.
My heart threatens to beat out of my chest and the tears rush anew. He holds out his hands to us and mum and I both reach for them. I can feel him but it's like the touch of the wind. Not cold or warm. He's a ghost that barely has a solid form.
“Hades has told me everything.” He smiles sadly. “I'm so sorry. I'd hoped Lukas would have been stronger.”
Mum shakes her head and holds either side of his face.
“You couldn't have known.” She reassures him. “Zeus's corruption is a force that most can't withstand.” She brushes a strand of hair from his face. “I've missed you so much.”
“What have you decided, My Love.” He asks softly but a thread of hope fills his voice.
She smiles up at him in utter devotion and happiness.
“I choose to have the life with you that I never thought I'd have.” She says as fresh tears fall down her cheeks.
She turns to me, holding my arm and pulling me closer. “You're strong and brave. I know that my part in your story is done. The Fates have said that we are destined to live long, happy lives, so that you can focus on what you need to do with nothing holding you back. This next part is for you to face without us. I want to be by your side so that I know you're safe.” He voice breaks and my heart twists. “But I know that there's no more help I can give you. You're father and I will always be here when you need us Sweetheart.”
“I know Mum.” I say through my tears.
Dad holds my shoulder with pride in his eyes. His touch feels like a breeze. There's pressure there but it's slight.
“I'm so proud of you Krista. I have no doubt that you can fulfil this prophecy. It'll be hard and I wish that this burden didn't have to fall on your shoulders. On my daughters shoulders.” He swallows. “You are everything I could hope for. Be brave, be strong and trust your instincts.”
I nod and take a deep breath. Squaring my shoulders and holding back my tears. I feel shadows curl around my mind in a supporting hold as Alistair stands at my back.
Dad straightens and assess Alistair in a way that only a father could. Alistair doesn't lord over him but bows his head in respect. Carter tilts his chin up and narrows his eyes.
“She is bound to you, but she is not yours unless she wishes it.” Dad warns.
Alistair stands beside me and his knuckles graze mine.
“I will protect her with my life and strive to be worthy of her.” He replies as he looks Dad straight in his eyes.
Carter nods and Mum steps forward to Alistair.
“You are worthy Alistair. Gaia loves you as much as any mother could. Thank you.” She says as she takes both mine and Alistair's hands. “I know you will keep my baby safe.”
Alistair nods and Mum cups my cheek again.
“I love you so much.” She says and my eyes burn.
“I love you too Mum.”
She smiles and Hades steps up to us.
“If you're ready?” He gestures to the open space at the foot of the table. The Fates stand and walk to Hades's side.
