This 100-word piece is a mini-sequel to The Charlie & Cub Chronicles. It is part of a collection of moments between sixteen-year-old Theo and Charlie. Family continues on from Home.
It can be read on its own — out of context of the novels and the other 100-word pieces.
“I knew you’d be here.” Theo pulled himself up with just his arms to sit beside Charlie. She sometimes forgot how tall he’d grown. How strong he’d become.
Charlie didn’t say anything. She continued to stare into the black.
“Rohan waited for you.” Silence. “You can’t just take off, Charlie. These people care about us, it’s not—”
“It’s not family,” Charlie whispered, cutting him off.
“They are. They’re all we’ve got.”
Charlie could feel Theo looking at her, his eyes searching… for something. But she just leant into his shoulder and sighed. He relaxed and wrapped his arms around her.