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Once a month, she’d turn extremely private, popping painkillers and staying subdued.
At first, I worried she was sick. But by the second time, I knew.
Della was no longer a child.
Her body was an adult, even if it hadn’t fully grown into one.
I offered her sympathy and tried to help with her period pain, but unlike most times where she wanted my company, she wanted nothing to do with me.
When things passed, our bond would snap right back into place and life would be simple again. Hiking, exploring, swimming.
Della hadn’t packed a swimsuit, but she didn’t argue when I made her wear a t-shirt and underwear before getting wet. I made sure she was never around when I bathed, and I averted my eyes whenever she’d strip—sometimes catching me unaware with flashes of her perfect skin.
We shared tasks on building a fire or erecting the tent or preparing food, and overall, the lifestyle we shared was much easier now she was older and offered more help than hindrance.
For two glorious months, we travelled on back-roads and explored the stu
The money stuffed safe in my backpack wasn’t needed as I allowed every aspect of our lives before the Wilsons to return—including stealing.
I didn’t take from those who had nothing and did my best to only pinch a few things. Items like toothpaste and deodorant, ca
Della asked me to teach her the art of thievery, but that was one thing I refused. I’d teach her anything she wanted—ski
There was too much risk.
And she was far too precious to get caught.
She might not need me as much as she once did, but I still had a role to play in her life.
A role I would gladly uphold until my dying breath.
To protect her.
At all costs.
Even if it meant protecting her from herself.