Blood Mines

Chapter 9: Going home or stay

“Yes," Edna replied, we have a good doctor that helps us now and then when we need it and honey, you needed it."

“But, how…"

“No need to worry, dear, we are here to help each other, and you came just in time, if Etienne hadn't discovered you the next day, you wouldn't have survived."

“They killed Brutus, Ma." Steve choked out. “Why did they kill my dog?"

Tanya could hear the bitter anguish in his voice. She leant forward to touch him and for a brief moment they touched hands before he pulled away again.

“I am so sorry honey, Brutus was a good friend. We will miss him."

“Yes," he whispered and quickly left the room, leaving her alone with the strangers.

“How is he doing?" Tanya asked as her eyes followed him out the room.

“He is doing better," Edna remarked. “He is a strong young man, same as his mother. You raised a fine boy."

“Thanks," she replied, choking back the tears that threatened to overwhelm her.

“Now, now, you can be proud of what you have done so far. We have watched you for several years now. The fact that you have survived all this time while raising that young man is impressive and we would like you to join us."

“What do you mean, join you. Who are you?" her eyes darted from the man - who, until now had not said a word - to the older woman who just stared at her.

“More about that later, dear; for now you need to get better."

“I need to go home." Tanya insisted, suddenly very much in a hurry. Whoever these people were she had a bad feeling about them. She tried to throw off the sheet but flinched as pain shot through her body.

“Tanya you are not strong enough to be alone, besides, you have no food at home." Patrick spoke for the first time directly to her. He had a deep authoritative voice that she was sure not many undermined.

“No, I need to get home. I will find food."

“Tanya, sweetie, we cannot let you go in this condition. You are not fit to care for yourself or your son. These people will return, and I am afraid they won't leave you until you're dead and your place burnt to the ground. Is that what you want?" Edna persisted.

“No, but I cannot stay here." Tanya said, her body shaking from the quick movements. Sweat pearled on her face and one slipped right passed her left eye.

“Tanya, listen to me. You aren't in the best shape right now. Here we can take care of you and protect you until you are stronger; you will need at least another two days to recover. If you feel you need to go, then we will take you back. Is that a deal?" Patrick asked, his arms folded, his eyes still unwavering on her. She knew he was right, she could feel her own body strength was depleted. The rash had caused her a substantial setback and she will need time to recuperate. Not to mention the bruises and broken rib, she was sure she had, since it was painful to breathe.

“Okay, two days, nothing more. Then I return to my place." She agreed, half-heartedly.

“Good," and with that Patrick left the room. An awkward moment filled the room but Edna started to talk about small things while she helped her to go to the bathroom. She needed a bath, she felt sticky from the last few days.

Three days. Could it be?

That was how long she was unconscious.

Hard to believe.