Angel on a Mission

Chapter 9

Gabrielle's POV

I arrived at my cabin, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders, and flopped down onto my bed with a heavy sigh.

I knew I still had a considerably long stay ahead of me.

This mission is truly demanding and can be exceptionally draining at times.

So many lives are at stake, and I am their only hope.

Feeling the need to clear my mind, I decided to go out for a walk in the woods.

After some time had passed, I finally arrived at the first spot I had seen when I first got here.

The trees have already grown tall, their branches swaying gently in the breeze.

Reaching out to touch one of the trees, I felt its life force surging through me, filling me with warmth and energy.

“Life,” I muttered under my breath, smiling at the profound connection I felt in that moment.

I looked up, allowing my gaze to wander to the sky, and walked toward a more open space. It had been a while since I had flown.

Perhaps it was time I stretched my wings a little.

Directing my eyes toward the heavens, I whispered, “Father, please lend me my wings.”

To my surprise, a radiant light from above shone down on me.

I gasped, falling to one knee as I felt my wings unfurling.

Panting from the exhilaration, I managed to catch a glimpse of my magnificent wings. They were breathtaking, a blend of ethereal colors that glimmered in the light.

I inhaled deeply, gathering my strength, and then leaped into the air to kick-start my flight. The rush of the wind against my face brought forth a giggle of pure joy.

I spread my arms wide, savoring the freedom that soared within me.

I had missed this feeling more than I realized.

I flew for a few more hours, reveling in the liberation of the skies, until I finally decided to return to my cabin.

As I caressed my stunning wings, I felt them retreat back to my body, and I gasped once more, feeling awkward in my human form, which wasn’t fully accustomed to my angelic attributes.

It figures, I thought to myself, chuckling softly.

Instead of heading inside my cabin immediately, I wandered over to the river platform, shedding my top and jeans, leaving myself clad only in my underwear.

With a carefree spirit, I jumped into the water.

Although the water was cold, I felt an immediate wave of relaxation wash over me.

Moments later, I sensed someone's presence nearby.

It was him—Alexander.

I decided to linger longer in the water, curious if he would be that inquisitive.

Finally, my human body could no longer withstand the lack of oxygen and I emerged from the water, my eyes locking onto his.

His expression shifted as his eyes widened in surprise upon seeing me.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, c*****g my head to the side. He quickly looked away, avoiding my gaze. I let out a sigh.

Swimming closer to the platform, I lifted myself out of the water.

Alexander glanced over again, his eyes widening even further.

“Sh*t!” he cursed under his breath, swiftly turning away. I shook my head, donning my top and jeans.

“What are you doing here, Alexander?” I asked again, though I already knew the reason for his unexpected presence.

He sighed heavily.

“I was at our family’s rest house and after quite a bit of walking in the woods, I ended up here,” he explained, his tone exasperated.

He really detests having to explain himself.

Yet, given that he is in the wrong, he needed to defend himself somehow.

“It’s late. Your parents will be worried,” I said, walking past him while feeling his gaze on my back.

“And what about you? What are you doing here?” he asked, trailing behind me.

“This is my father’s cabin,” I pointed out.

“You stay here?” he asked, his curiosity evident. I nodded.

“Sometimes,” I admitted, as I don’t regularly stay here.

We reached the front porch, and I frowned slightly.

“It’s dangerous to be roaming around the woods at this hour,” I warned him.

“It’s more dangerous to remain here in the woods,” he countered, his face serious.

True enough.

But the animals here like me, and no other humans know my special place, so I considered myself relatively safe.

Plus, I am guarded by the Divine.

“I’m guessing this is how you were able to find Brooke, then,” he stated more to himself than to me.

“Yes, that’s right. I was wandering around when I heard her,” I responded, and he nodded in comprehension.

Now, he seemed to understand.

“I’m going home,” he declared, clearing his throat as if trying to assert his decision.

I quickly grabbed him by the arm.

He couldn’t leave like this.

“You should stay for the night,” I urged him. His brows furrowed in irritation as he pulled his arm from my grasp.

“What do you think you’re doing?” he asked, a hint of annoyance in his tone. I let out a resigned sigh.

“I’m afraid something bad will happen to you on the way back,” I explained, my concern genuine.

A car crash.

“What?” His brow furrowed again, this time in confusion.

“Please. I know you don’t trust me. I don’t expect you to. But just this once, please listen to me,” I pleaded, looking deep into his eyes as if trying to convey my sincerity.

He regarded me for a moment, as if attempting to read my mind.

After a long sigh, he acquiesced.

“I’ll give my mom a call. You go on inside first,” he instructed, and I nodded before stepping inside.

Dripping with lake water, I hurried to the bathroom to take a quick shower, throwing on a robe afterwards as I scurried to my bedroom, though I suspected Alexander could see me from the living room.

I changed into something comfortable, and upon opening another drawer, I couldn’t help but chuckle to myself.

Thank you, God.

I pulled out some new clothing and re-emerged into the living room where Alexander was still present.

“In case you want to wash up. Also, you can have the bedroom,” I said, gesturing toward my room. He shook his head vehemently.

“I’ll sleep on the couch,” he insisted, his tone final. I nodded, realizing I wouldn’t be able to convince him otherwise.

“Have you had dinner?” I inquired, feeling a pang of concern.

He hesitated before replying, “Yeah,” though I sensed he was lying.

Okay, then.

I went to the kitchen and commenced slicing up some fruit, placing it in the fridge in case he grew hungry later.

I didn’t possess any other food besides vegetables, fruits, and bread.

No, I don’t eat meat.

“If you get hungry, there are fruits in the fridge,” I informed him, and he merely nodded in response. I then made my way to my bedroom to get some rest.

School awaited us in the morning.

Before I drifted off, I decided to offer a prayer.

But unlike my usual prayers, I suddenly found myself back where I initially came from.

Looking around with a smile, I remained still.

“My child,” God greeted me warmly. I returned his smile and bowed my head respectfully.

“Father,” I acknowledged in a gentle tone. He smiled back at me.

“How have you been doing?” he asked, though I knew he already possessed knowledge of everything occurring in my life.

“I’ve been doing well, Father. I have a visitor in my cabin,” I admitted, and he nodded knowingly.

“Yes, I see. Alexander Smith,” he said with a soft smile.

“How are my brothers and sisters doing, Father?” I asked inquisitively.

“There have been a few who have already returned. The others are doing just fine,” he assured me. I nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.

“I will continue to do my best, Father,” I promised earnestly. He smiled at me.

“I know you will, my child. I have faith in you,” he replied, his voice filled with warmth. With that, I opened my eyes, finding myself back in my cabin.

I miss home.

I truly do.

Instead of sleeping, I decided to go outside.

Carefully, I sneaked out through the back of the house and made my way to the lake, where I settled down on the platform, gazing up at the sky.

A smile spread across my face as I extended my arms, as if trying to touch the heavens.

Home seems so near yet so distant.

But at the same time, I am happy to be where I am.

I find joy in serving God.

I feel content knowing I can help others.

I am grateful for the purpose I have.

I cherish my temporary identity and the friends I’ve made along the way.

I’m just...a little homesick.

“You’ll catch a cold,” a familiar voice broke through my thoughts.

I didn't turn around, knowing it was just Alexander.

“You should be sleeping,” I retorted.

“It’s still early. You can’t possibly expect me to sleep at this hour,” he replied, and finally, I turned to look at him.

I shifted over to make room, and he sat down beside me.

“You shouldn’t be out here at night. Do you have any idea how many wild animals you could encounter that could harm you?” he admonished.

“Zero animals,” I replied casually.

For average human beings, it certainly is dangerous, but I am different—an angel, in fact.

I share a connection with every creature that roams this earth.

“I’ll be fine,” I reassured him.

Then, a comfortable silence enveloped us.

“I’m sorry I thought you were lying,” he confessed suddenly.

I turned my attention to Alexander, briefly catching his eye before he looked away, gulping nervously.

“I forgive you,” I replied sincerely.

“Honestly, what you said was hard to believe, but seeing this place has made me realize that I... was mistaken,” he admitted, his face flushing crimson.

I couldn’t help but chuckle softly.

“It’s alright, Alexander. You were worried about your sisters and your family overall. You were only trying to protect them and yourself. I understand, and as I said, I forgive you,” I stated, offering him reassurance.

“Now, you should head back inside before you catch a cold,” I added.

“And you’re just going to stay out here by yourself as if it’s a good idea?” he argued.

“I need some time outdoors to soothe my soul. I’ll be perfectly fine alone. We have school tomorrow, and you certainly can’t afford to get sick,” I explained.

“Are you seriously worrying about me while neglecting your own well-being?” he questioned incredulously. “You know, you do that quite often.”

“I care about everyone and anyone. Yes, I prioritize others before myself. It’s just who I am,” I said with a dismissive shrug.

“Well, that same inclination may end up risking your life one day. Normal people exhibit at least a bit of selfishness,” he argued back.

“What if I’m not normal?” I inquired, locking my gaze onto his.

Alexander met my eyes, and a sense of understanding flickered between us.

“What do you mean by that?” he questioned, curiosity piqued.

“Just...nothing. It’s simply who I am, and I can’t change it. I was raised this way,” I explained quietly.

He fell silent for a moment, digesting my words.

“You know what? Let’s just go back inside since you refuse to go back on your own,” I offered, standing up.

Alexander followed suit, and as soon as I stepped into the cabin, a ringing sound echoed through the air.

I rushed to my room to grab my phone, where I found a text message containing a name and coordinates.

Here we go, I thought, feeling a mix of anticipation and concern.

I quickly donned a jacket and grabbed a flashlight before hastily making my way back outside.

“Where are you going?” Alexander asked, confusion evident in his voice.

“I need you to stay here. Lock the doors and don’t leave. Don’t open the door for anyone except me,” I instructed firmly, opening the front door with urgency.

“What are you doing?!” he exclaimed, catching me by the arm and halting my movement.

“I genuinely need to go, Alexander. Please,” I urged him, feeling a sense of urgency.

“I’m coming with you,” he insisted, his determination unwavering.

Exhaling in resignation, I replied, “Grab a jacket.”

Alexander quickly grabbed his jacket and flashlight, while I retrieved another flashlight and handed it to him.

“Whatever you do, stay close,” I instructed, and we dashed into the woods together.

Had it been just me, I likely would have teleported directly to the location, but since I was with Alexander, I had to proceed differently.

We ran swiftly, pushing ourselves as fast as we could until an unexpected scream pierced through the stillness of the night.

I abruptly stopped and switched off our flashlights, turning to Alexander.

“You take the girl and keep her safe,” I whispered urgently.

Alexander’s brows furrowed, clearly confused.

“What girl?” he responded, but just then, another scream echoed through the woods.

“Come on!” I urged, pulling on his arm as we hurried toward the sound.

The screams grew increasingly louder as we drew closer, and when we reached the scene, we concealed ourselves behind a tree.

I signaled for Alexander to remain silent as I cautiously peered at what was unfolding.

A man was ensnaring a girl by her hair, dragging her mercilessly.

My heart squeezed in my chest at the sight of the girl’s distress.

“Help me! Somebody, please help me!” she cried out desperately.

“Shut up, you b*tch!” the cruel man spat, slapping her across the face as she continued to plead for mercy.

I noticed Alexander's readiness to act, but I quickly restrained him with a firm grip.

Looking into his eyes, I said quietly, “Promise me you’ll keep her safe.”

Though hesitant, he eventually nodded in agreement.

With that, I emerged from our hiding spot and stealthily made my way toward them.

My foot inadvertently crunched down on a dried leaf, alerting the man to my presence as he snapped his head in my direction.

I moved quickly, throwing a punch that landed squarely on his nose, causing him to release the girl and stumble back with a pained groan.

Without wasting a moment, I seized the girl’s arm and ran back toward Alexander, who took her and grasped her firmly.

I turned to confront the man, who was now regaining his balance, a look of fury painted across his features as blood flowed from his broken nose.

“Who the f*ck are you?!” he yelled at me, his rage palpable.

In the distance, I heard Alexander and the girl making their escape.

“She's mine!” he bellowed, attempting to pursue them, but I lunged forward, stopping him in his tracks and pinning him to the ground.

“Don’t do this. This isn’t right, and you know it. It’s not too late to stop,” I pleaded, my voice steady despite the chaos around us.

“Let me go!” he screamed, thrashing underneath my hold, his anger growing.

“Let me go, you f*cking b*tch!” he yelled again, and in a surprising show of strength, he managed to break free from my grip, quickly reversing our positions and pinning me down, his hands encircling my neck.

“Elle!” Alexander’s voice filled with alarm as he called out to me.

“No!” I shouted in a desperate attempt to keep him from coming to my aid.

Gazing into the man’s eyes, I barely managed to choke out, “P-please. You can still ch-change.”

“It’s too late now,” he retorted, his laughter resonating with a sinister clarity in the midnight air.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I felt him slipping further into darkness.

“I-I'm sorry,” I squeezed out, watching in horror as he began to scream, clutching his head as if in agony.

As his tortured cries rang out, I pushed myself up, observing him writhe in pain.

Then, I could hear the sounds of approaching footsteps in the distance.

“Elle!” Alexander’s voice pierced through the chaos, but I didn’t take my eyes off the man.

I watched helplessly as he fought against the grip of the dark forces consuming him.

Finally, the authorities arrived on the scene, shining their flashlights toward us, yet the man fueled by madness rose to strike again.

*Boom*

I watched in slow motion as he crumpled to the ground, tears streaming down my cheeks, my heart heavy with the weight of failure.

He had fallen, a gunshot wound to his head silencing his wrath forever.

“Elle…” Alexander's voice broke through my reverie as he rushed to my side, concerned etched across his face.

As the police began to file in, extracting us from the chaotic scene while examining the slain man’s body, I remained quiet, lost in thought.

They guided us away from the woods, and we were placed in the back of a police car where they proceeded to interrogate us.

Throughout the entire process, I remained silent, allowing my thoughts to consume me as we were eventually returned to my cabin.

Once we arrived, Alexander and I stepped out of the car, making our way back inside the cabin.

“Elle,” he called softly, breaking the stillness.

“You should get some sleep,” I replied, my exhaustion evident as I turned to head toward my room.

The moment I closed the door behind me, a dam burst, and I crumpled to the floor, sobbing uncontrollably.

I cried for what felt like hours until exhaustion finally overcame me.

After what felt like an eternity, I forced myself out of bed, and upon opening my door, I was met with an unexpected sight—Alexander sleeping by the door.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips.

Why would he choose to stay here just to listen to my anguish?

I reached down, gently tapping his head to prevent him from waking, before lifting his body effortlessly with my angelic abilities and laying him comfortably on the couch, covering him with a warm blanket.

In that moment, a wave of compassion washed over me, and I cradled his head carefully, tampering with his memories.

Instead of allowing him to remember the horrid screams, the awful curses, the graphic bloodshed, and the darkness that had unfolded that night, I chose to blur out the horrifying sounds and events so they wouldn’t haunt him in his dreams.