James Starling, Angel Child - VII

"My father, Jacob Starling, didn't die in the house fire. In fact, he escaped, relatively unharmed.

"Only his wife, my mother, actually died."

"He... he didn't?"

Ian was aside himself with astonishment.

"So, he's still alive..."

He dared to hope.

"... No."

"Then... how did he die?"

"He was murdered."

For a moment the boy's face dropped, almost with guilt.

Then he looked up. On his face there seemed to be a new mask - one of determination.

But it was plain to see the face underneath was small, scared, afraid...

Just like a 4-year-old.

"I want to find him," the boy continued. "I want to give him the justice he deserves."

"Do you mean, revenge?"

The boy considered this.

"... No. Justice. Revenge is forbidden amongst Angels."

"Then, how are you going to find him?"

"I'm going to ask my father."

"But isn't he dead?"

"Yes. That just means I have to go to heaven to find him."

Suddenly Ian felt a pang of sympathy.

"Alone?"

The boy was silent.

"I think I should come with you, just to keep you safe-"

"Do not underestimate me, just because I am 4!"

He had raised his once gentle voice, clearly displaying anger.

"And also... to meet Jacob again."

"But, to stay with him, you must die. And leave Louise."

"Just to say the goodbye I never got to say all those years ago."

The boy seemed to consider this once again.

"...

"All right."

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