[SE] Those We Lost

GIDEON

And now I cling to what I knew
I saw exactly what was true

"...I mean, I have no way of knowing for sure." Gideon looked down towards the floor and shrugged with a sad, quiet laugh. "I'd just like to think if he was still alive he'dve made the effort to let us know he was alright, by now." Because even though Judah had betrayed him, ruined their parents hopes, run away from home...at night when it was cold, Gideon still sometimes hoped his brother had somewhere warm and safe to sleep. In a lot of ways it was easier to put a chapter end on it and pretend he could know for sure Judah was gone.

It seemed Luciana had her own difficult truths to admit. What had been intended to be a quick, casual visit had swiftly become one of the most vulnerable conversations the two had ever had, and Gideon glanced over the lanterns as she choked out her answer, eyes settling on the crib. "...I'm sorry. The lanterns are beautiful. "

That's why I hold with all I have
That's why I hold