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The Story:
It took everything I had to get the ticket. Not money, of course. The last plane allowed to transport passengers out of the country couldn’t be bought with something as invaluable as money.
“Final boarding call for Flight 25, Iceland,” the loudspeaker urged.
Hundreds of people were outside the terminal, trying to break through. The military was doing their best to peacefully hold them back, but I had already heard several gunshots.
Only 25 planes were given permission to leave the country. After that, all international communications and travel would be suspended indefinitely. No one approved of the decision, and we all knew it signaled the end. A dystopian nightmare would soon be our reality.
“Mom, I don’t wanna go.”
“Oh, sweetheart, I know. But you have to be a big girl now, okay?”
Alli was ten at the time. It wasn’t fair of me to ask her to grow up so quickly. None of this was fair. For anyone. She would have to learn how to take care of herself through trial and hopefully very little error.
“I love you so much, Alli.”
We hugged each other with a final grip that I knew, right then, I would feel for years to come.
“Mom, when I get to Iceland…”
“Yes, sweetie. You still need to hide how special you are. No one can ever know that. Ever. Do you understand?”
Alli nodded her head with tears rolling down her cheeks and a quivering lip, but I continued to battle my tears. She didn’t need to see me weep. It would only scare her more.
“You have to go now, Alli. Remember everything I’ve taught you. I love you, Alli.”
She crossed to the door and handed her ticket to a military officer. He stamped it and handed it back to her.
She started to walk through the door but paused, turning back around. She stared at the floor for several moments before looking at me. She stood up straight, lifted her head, and delivered a promise I’ve held as my one hope for the past 13 years.
“I’ll come back for you, Mom. I will save you.”