Where (Time part 7)

"Where are we going Daddy?" I enquired as I sat paitently at the dinner table, whilst he looked through the cupboards to find something to give me for breakfast.

"Weetabix ok sweetie?" He asked "Would have to be dry though as I wouldn't trust the milk in the fridge!" He laughed.

He gave me a bowl that was in the cupboard with my stale breakfast in, before reaching for a glass and trying the tap.

It made funny noises like gurgling, hissing, banging, and whistling. But nothing came out.

"Not to worry." Daddy said moving to his backpack. "I got some bottles."

He handed over a bottle, unsrewing the lid for me, as I crunched on my breakfast.

"We are headed to a place called Andover." Daddy informed me before he sat down beside me. "I grew up around there, I just coming back from there when I came and rescued you." I looked up at Daddy hanging on every word, he cupped his hands over mine. "They have this community that looks after lots of people, there are lots of children there too, it will be safe for you." He smiled at me, but a sad pained smile.

"Daddy, you mean safe for us?" I asked my voice tinged with fear. "For both of us?"

He sighed deeply. Trying to find the words.

"There is something else I must do before that can happen sweetie." He looked deep into my eyes.

"Monsters?" I asked feeling myself welling up inside.

"Something like that." He did not elaborate any further. "Now go get your things." He ruffled my hair and I remained seated, I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

"You saved me just to leave me with some strangers!" I yelled. "Why can we not stay together?"

His expression softened, but his resolve didn't waver. "Maisie, it's not safe for you to come with me where I'm going. The people I'm taking you to, they will keep you safe. I have to do this."

"But what if you don't come back?" My voice trembled as I clutched his sleeve, refusing to let go.

He knelt down again, taking my hands in his. "I will come back. I promise you that. And when I do, we'll find somewhere safe, somewhere we can stay for good."

I stared into his eyes, searching for any hint of doubt, but all I saw was determination and love. "Okay," I whispered, my voice barely audible. "But you better keep your promise."

"I will," he said firmly. "Now, go get your things. We don't have much time."

As I gathered my belongings, my heart ached with the thought of being separated from him.

But although I did not understand I knew he was doing this to protect me. And I had to trust him.

He stood by the door, watching me pack. "You're going to be just fine, sweetie. You're strong, and you're smart. Remember everything I've taught you."

I nodded, trying to hold back the tears. "I remember. I'll be brave, just like you taught me."

He smiled, a sad, proud smile. "That's my girl. Now, let's get going. We need to reach the settlementbefore nightfall."

I slung my backpack over my shoulder and walked over to him. He took my hand, and we stepped out into the darkening world together, each step taking us closer to our goodbye.