The Trails we leave behind

Sophie just spoke.

It was one word, but it was everything to him and to her. Her voice had been low, tired, patchy, and the last thing he expected. It was one word more than what he expected—more than what anyone expected.

Eliana looked at Sophie as she slept soundly on the bed, and then up at Rhys. Her forehead creased. “Did you say she woke up just now?” she asked again, just to be sure. Youths these days liked to play ‘pranks’ although Rhys did not appear to her to be someone who liked to have a good laugh at the detriment of others. Still, what he said was just ridiculous.

“And she spoke?” As she said it out loud now, it sounded even more ridiculous. Sophie could not speak. She has not said anything for the past twelve years.

“Yes.” Rhys answered. “But...“ he trailed off. He looked unsure as his eyes strayed back to her face. Eliana was sure he was mistaken.

“But what? Rhys?” She pressed.

He shook his head. “She is asleep now. She said ‘help’ and her head just rolled ba