Rabbit Hole Carnival: Fireflies

“Welcome to the Rabbit Hole Carnival What.. rougher night?” Nick asked.

“I suppose.” Ben replied. “Just get me a.. Hm she would like this one. A Shocking Apple.”

“My apologies, sir, but I can’t make that one—” Nick said, as the door opened

“Can’t make?” Renee asked. “We’ll get you that Shocking Apple in a minute, sir. May I ask why you want one

“Busy day it seems like.” Ben said.

“No. Rather slow actually.” Renee replied. “It seemed like a good time to get supplies”

“Even if it meant no one is around to get an old man a Shocking Apple.” Ben asked.

“We use this time to get supplies at times. It’s actually Renee’s preferred time, and I have no reason to disagree.” Nick said. “I couldn’t make it, because I refuse to learn how to make her first drink for many reasons.”

“Also because a lot of apples are rotten, for the record.” Renee said. “Threw the supply out, but it’ll be loaded soon. Oh umm…. 10-12 Anchors, 2 Homesick, and one Festival. We really haven’t had a lot of time until now, so I called in a few favors. I’ll help when I can.”

“A feeling I know too well.” Ben said. “If it were that easy… maybe she’d be here still.”

“I don’t mean to dismiss those thoughts of yours, but is that really what she would want you thinking?”

“What would a serious and focused girl like you know of such things?” Ben asked.

“Focused I’ll give you, but do not mistake that for seriousness.” Renee replied. “I just know what dwelling on that sort of thing is like.”

“You know what she would say then?” Ben said. “You what my poor torture granddaughter was thinking before…”

“Just because you didn’t save someone doesn’t mean you didn’t make it worth their while. “ Renee replied. “A fact I’ve had to remind… Uncle Nick of many times.”

“Yet she probably won’t make it, because I didn’t act sooner.” Ben said. “She told me so much, and promised her.”

“One moment.” Renee said, and walked behind the bar come back with a filled mug in hand. “Drink it.”

“But your—” Ben started.

“It’s nothing Daddy can’t handle.” Renee said. “Drink it.”

Ben took a swig. “It really does remind me of her. Of that moment, when we saw finally got to see fireflies, never seen her so happy.”

“Have you been by her side lately, Ben?” Renee asked. “Have you fought for this granddaughter you care so much for?”

“Barely… I can get in, but I never know what to say…” Ben replied.

“Well.. not my business, but I know a certain niece who happened to love hearing just a few words on why she mattered. On why she was trusted, and why she should still be here.”

“Rumor has it she co-runs a bar these days.” Nick replied. “And need to serve a special that a few customers are requesting.”

“That so?” Renee asked. “I can take care of the rest then. You help out with this one.”

“What did you say to her?” Ben asked. “How were you even sure you could take her in.”

“I wasn’t.” Nick said. “I prepare to deal with the cops, and possibly my brother again. But her getting to a good home was important to me, and like you I should’ve done it sooner. But hse is here now, and having the time of her life.”

“I see.. I best get going.” Ben. “I have a few things I need to do.”