^{If you missed the first book - Fireflies - you might want to start there. It's here in its completion, written for Steemit. If you enjoy it, feel free to ask to be added to the subscriber list for the sequel, where new chapters are being released daily.}

Entry 19

"I can't believe this trip is almost over." Caleb looked at her with a hopeful longing that they would spend more time together after the trip. They were on opposite sides of the country, but he was willing to work it out. He was so captivated by her, especially these last few days where she seemed to become a newer, freer person.

"It did go fast. I expected a completely different experience, but things really did change."

Caleb smiled broader, thinking that she felt the same stirrings as he did. He became bold.

"Want to go for an evening walk on the trail? I'm not really tired."

Talia snickered lightly, coyly stating the truth. "I never have to sleep."

"Then, after you m'lady." He held his hand out for her to walk in front and take the lead. The group watched the two young hearts walk away from the bonfire and smiled. Young love was easy to mistake, if that's what people wanted to see.

Caleb's long strides put him side by side with her in a few seconds. He matched her steps and walked in silence for a little bit, waiting for the right signal to bring up the conversation. He could tell she was just as excited as he was. Her demeanor had totally changed within the last few days. They both started to speak simultaneously - each ready to pounce on the opportunity.

Caleb laughed shyly, "Sorry, you go first."

Talia, never one to play social games, accepted the offer and spat out, "What if you could do anything you wanted in this world? Completely unchecked. Anything."

Caleb pulled back, not expecting that turn of conversation. With furrowed brows and a confused smile, he retreated a half step, looking down into her energized eyes. "I don't ... I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Exactly what I said. What if you could do anything in this world? Anything at all! Would that excite you?"

"Um. Sure? I mean, to a degree. I wouldn't hurt anyone or like.. steal or - what are you talking about?" This was not at all the dialogue that he expected.

"I'll show you?"

A trace of apprehension crossed his face before answering. "Alright."

She knelt down and picked up a rock. She shouldn't do anything too shocking, like turn the rock into something living. Maybe she'd just manipulate it into a gem. She closed her hands over the rock and let the energy pass through her. She could see, feel, taste the changes happening. It was as easy as molding clay inside her palms. When it was finished, her eyes flicked open and she flashed a smile.

"Here!" She excitedly dropped the ruby into his hand. Even in the dim light of the night, he could see how the facets gleamed. It was clearly not the rock that she had picked up.

"Okay," he stated flatly, disappointed. "You want to be a magician?"

Her shoulders dropped. Clearly she would need to step this up a notch.

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