Gates (Time part 8)

As we drive down the dark, twisty roads, I hold on tight to Rabbit. Daddy’s hands are gripping the steering wheel hard. I can tell he’s really focused as we get closer to the big, tall gate up ahead. The headlights make the gate look even bigger and scarier in the dark.

When we get close, a really big man with a thick beard steps out into the road. He looks tough and gruff, and Daddy slows the car down. He rolls down the window and says, “Hey, Bear.”

The big man—Bear—walks over to the car. His boots make a crunching sound on the gravel. He looks at Daddy like he knows him. “Welcome back,” Bear says. “You found her then? What about her mother?”

Daddy’s face gets all sad and serious. “It’s been rough. She’s gone. We need to get Maisie settled.”

Bear’s face looks understanding, and he steps aside to open the gate. As we drive through, I see a quiet, calm place that looks really different from where we just were. There are neat houses and clean streets, and it’s so peaceful.

Daddy parks the car near a cozy building. I look around, feeling a bit better because it seems so calm and safe here. Daddy turns to me and tries to smile, but I can see he’s tired. “We’re here now, Maisie. This place is safe. Let’s get you settled.”

I nod and grab my backpack. Daddy and I step out of the car, and the cool night air feels nice. I hold Rabbit close, feeling a bit better now that we’re somewhere that looks so calm.

Maybe I could grow up here? Behind these gates.