The Lost Changeling (part 2)

                                                              **8 years old**

Ariea stood on the steps in front of her house, unknowingly being watched by Peter. Deciding to make himself known, he crossed the quiet street to her. “Hi Ariea!” he said cheerfully, but she didn’t seem to notice. She just stood there, leaning on her broom, staring off into space. “Ariea?” he asked, unsure. “Ariea, is something wrong? You can tell me.”

She turned her head to him and closed her eyes. “Mom died Peter.” She didn’t see his eyes widen.

“When?”

“Last night.” Her voice was devoid of emotion.

“Oh Ariea, I’m so sorry. I didn’t know.” He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her, blush tinting his cheeks.

“It’s fine.” But she didn’t push away.

“You must be upset.” He said when he’d let he go. She scrunched up her eyes, and he knew that meant she was confused.

“I am, a little. But you see I’m not as upset as I should be. And that’s what makes me upset.” She looked up her friend. “Is there something wrong with me?”

He looked at his friend, still so small. “There’s nothing wrong with you. Why don’t we hang at my house?” she smiled and nodded. “Come on!” he grabbed her hand and dragged her into his home. “Jordan! Ariea can come over, right?!”

Jordan walked into the hallway. “Did your mom or dad say it was ok?” he asked, looking at her.

“I didn’t ask. Dad’s passed out on the couch, and mom… she’s gone.”

Jordan smiled down at his brother’s friend. Her house obviously wasn’t a good place to be at the moment. “Of course she can stay.”

Peter let out the breath he had been holding.  “Awesome!! Come on Ariea!!” he dragged his friend into another room. Jordan laughed and shook his head.

                                                             **Later that Night**

“Peter, what did Ariea mean when she said her mom was ‘gone’?” Jordan asked as he tucked his little brother in that night.

“Her mom died.” Peter said quietly.

“Oh.” was all Jordan could say. He patted his brother’s hair. “Goodnight Peter. Sleep well.” He turned off the light and closed the door, taking one last look at his brother before going to bed himself.