“Okay, 3…2…1..now!” “Okay, for real this time, 3…2…1!” A sigh rushes out of their mouth. “For real for real.” “Are you going to go?” Lana looked peeved. The friendly face that looked for any reason to smile seemed exasperated. Frustrated even. “Look, you’ve done everything you can. You’ve trained for this moment. Either do it now, or do it later, but just do it!” “Okay, no turning back. 1..2…” “Stop counting and go!” Lana’s shout moved heaven and earth as a loud crash came from the pool. Splash. The water gave a frigid embraced, covering everything like a cold blanket. Then it came. The blanket turned to hands, clawing, and dragging down to its core. The darkness from the eyes became sickles of fear and dread piercing the soul. The cuddle of bubbles making noises stopped and the silence of the water flooded in. The frantic motions trying to push the water away, the thought that it maybe the last day, every thought poured in. Pop. Splash. “…on goin…” Splash after splash of hands
“Do you have any last words?” “I lived, I loved, I will be with you all in my heart. Keep well, love each other, look over each other, and make sure that you all live a wonderful life even when I’m gone. God bless you, God loves you I love you. “ the eyes looked at the family as the room echoed with crying tears washing their faces. Memories of love, of kindness, of warmth, and happiness filled the body as the doctor said, “Now start counting”. They counted 7...6...5...4...3...2...