The Last Breath

For as long as Lena Vance could remember, the world had been just beyond her reach, separated by a cold electric glass bubble. One touch outside meant death, but inside, she was trapped in safely. She had never felt the wind, never felt a hand, never known the warmth of another’s skin. But when she learns a secret about her condition, everything changes. Has she been protected all this time, or imprisoned? And if she steps outside, will it be freedom or the end? Lena sat inside her bubble, the soft glow of the bubble lighting up her small room. The outside world was dangerous, but in here, she was safe. That’s what her mom always told her. Her dad, Marco, sat next to her at the old piano, his fingers moving across the keys easily as he was an amazing musician, but had to retire to take care of his beloved Lena. The warm notes filled the air, making Lena feel calm. "Alright, kiddo, your turn," Marco said. Lena hesitated, pressing a button on the panel inside her bubble to control the digital piano in front of her. It was impossible for her to sit close because of her bubble, but she made it work. She played a simple tune; one Marco had taught her when she was young. "That’s it!" Marco grinned. "See? You’ve got music in your soul." Lena rolled her eyes. "I think my soul just played a wrong note." Marco chuckled. "That’s just part of music, kiddo. Play like you mean it." Just then, Eva walked in, smiling. "Are my two musicians performing without me?" Marco smiled at Eva. "Sing with us! We need a third voice." Eva laughed and sat down. Soon, they were all singing together, voices filling the room. Lena felt happy like nothing could go wrong. She loved moments like this. Her dad’s jokes, her mom’s soft but serious love. Her dad was full of life, always telling stories, always making her laugh. But her mom was different. She was smart, focused, always making sure Lena’s bubble was working right. She didn’t say "I love you" much, but Lena knew she cared. And soon, everything would change.