The Order of The Rose: Forsaken Petal (Book 1) Read online

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  “Tom, it’s time to go to your new home,” Mother said as she knelt on the floor in front of him. She smiled. The sunlight from the open door gleamed on the marble floor. He rubbed his eyes, trying to stop the tears that blurred the image of his mother, kneeling in front of him. She leaned in and held him close. “I know it will be hard.” He couldn’t help but tremble as he thought about leaving his home and his mother. His mother kissed him on the forehead then held his shoulders and looked him in the eye. “Remember that your father and I expect you to be strong while we’re apart.” He could feel the strength in her as she pulled him closer. “You’re very special. Don’t be afraid. We’ll come for you.” He bit his lip to stop the quivering as his mother smiled at him. He smiled back and clasped the toy soldier closer to him.

  The driver, Theo, came through the door and grabbed the suitcases next to Tom. Theo started for the car and Tom grabbed his mother’s arm letting the toy soldier fall to the ground. His mother picked up the toy and handed it back. “You’ll need him to keep you safe while we’re gone.” She held him tight and said, “You must understand that we love you very much.” She clenched her jaw for a second then continued, “We have... it’s too dangerous to keep you here.” She stood, and taking his hand they walked toward the car.

  At the car Mother leaned down to him and whispered into his ear, “It’s very important that you wait at your new home until you’re sent for.” They continued to the car where she opened the door. He clung to her a moment longer then slowly climbed into the car.

  He looked back at her. “I... I understand, Mamma.” He didn’t know if he really could be strong, but he would try.

  She kissed him. “Remember we love you so much and we’ll come and get you soon.”

  Another car sped toward them and fear flashed across her face as she slammed the door. “Go!” Theo jumped into the car, and the car lurched forward. Tom heard gravel spit from the tires as the car roared away.

  He whirled and peered out the back window. “Mama!” he cried. Then Tom’s mouth dropped open when red flames shot from his mother’s hands toward the incoming car. He knew that his mother belonged to the sisterhood but had never before seen her use her magic before. He could no longer hold back the tears, and they poured down his face. The car swerved. He flew against the door and hit his head.

  “Tom, buckle up!” Theo yelled.

  Tom straightened, grabbed the buckle and struggled to strap it around his waist as the car swerved from side to side. As the car sped forward, Tom heard gun shots from behind. Again he searched out the back window but saw no cars. He sat back down and secured his seat belt. He wiped the tears from his eyes and leaned against the side of the car and soon fell asleep.