Főnix

Phoenix

Episode 77: When the Dream Doesn’t Run Away

Phoenix sits on the edge of the bed.The phone is still in her hand, as if she’s afraid that if she puts it down, all her courage will disappear with it.

She stands up. Takes a few steps. Turns back. Sits down again.Her movements are uncertain, but determined.The phone vibrates.Albatross’s name is on the screen.Phoenix flinches, as if she’s been caught in the middle of something. Then she answers.

PHOENIX:– Hi…

ALBATROSS:– Did you tell her?Phoenix closes her eyes.

PHOENIX:– Yes.– At first, I was scared.– She said she wants to meet you.The silence lasts a moment longer now.

ALBATROSS:– When?Phoenix opens her eyes.

PHOENIX:– That’s it?– You’re not going to ask if I’m sure?– If I panicked?

ALBATROSS:– You’re sure.Not a question.Not an explanation.Trust.Phoenix smiles.

PHOENIX:– Yes… I am.– It’s just… my mom will ask questions.– A lot of them.– And she’ll look at you as if she’s trying to figure you out from the inside.

ALBATROSS:– Then I’ll listen.– I won’t rush.– And I’ll tell the truth.Phoenix’s chest rises with a deep breath.

PHOENIX:– Are you afraid?A brief pause.

ALBATROSS:– Yes.– But not of her.– I’d be afraid if I didn’t go.Phoenix sits back down on the bed. This time, the movement is calm.

PHOENIX (softly):– Then… will you come?ALBATROSS:– I will.No more words.None are needed.For a moment, only their breathing can be heard on both ends of the line.

ALBATROSS (more serious, deeper):– I don’t just love you.– I choose you.Phoenix smiles.

PHOENIX:– Then for the first time… I won’t run away.– I’ll stay.– With you.The call ends.Phoenix falls back onto the bed, arms spread wide, as if she wants to embrace the whole world.The room is quiet.Calm.Certain.