Morning came early. The girls were just finishing breakfast when their two brothers entered the kitchen. Sarah looked up from washing the dishes.
“You want something to eat?”
“Nah, we already ate,” Caleb answered. “We just came to wish the girls luck.”
The boys walked to the table, and each grabbed a sister and pulled her to her feet. They gave their respective twin a hug then switched to the other. As Caleb hugged Alison he whispered in her ear.
“Make sure you get back here in one piece. I don’t want to have to do your chores forever.”
“Very funny.”
He grinned and let her go. Looking at Ben, he gestured with is head to the back door.
“We’re off, Mom. See you when you get back, girls.”
As Ben and Caleb left, Alexa called out after them.
“Don’t forget to give my horse extra oats!”
They heard the boys’ laughter.
Sarah turned to the girls. “You ready?”
They nodded.
“Then go on. Dad’s waiting out front. He’ll drive you to the drop off point. Be safe girls.”
She gave them one more hug then turned before they could see the small tears forming.
They filed out the door and met their father by the truck. Neither commented on his choice of vehicle. They just climbed into the back, holding their small packs on their laps. The drive took a little over an hour. No one spoke, each deep in their own thoughts.
As they pulled into a clearing, Samuel turned to them.
“Any last questions?”
The twins looked at each other, then their dad.
“No,” they answered in unison.
“Then stay close to the trees for now. A small ‘copter should be here in a few minutes. The pilot will take you where you need to go. Stick to your plan. Get in and out as quickly as you can. Be safe.”
They climbed out of the truck and as soon as they’d closed the door, Samuel backed up then pulled around facing the direction they’d come in. With a small nod and wave, he drove off, leaving them standing there. They watched him go in silence.
The sound of a helicopter made them look up. They watched it land, its rotors still spinning. Bent over, they ran to the craft and got in. It rose as soon as they were strapped into their seats.
From where he pulled over, Samuel watched the aircraft ascend, turn, and head north.
“Godspeed,” he whispered as he wiped an eye that suddenly began to water.