THE KILLER ANGEL : Book Three "Journey" (THE KILLER ANGEL TRILOGY 3) by Myles Stafford Read Free Book Online Page A

moment to inspect us.
    Finally a lady stepped out, then an older man. “My wife and my uncle.” Brick explained in a low tone.
    We walked forward. I was surprised at the low key welcome, almost as though Brick had only been gone for the morning, yet it had been two years since he was last home.
    “This is my friend, Nicki Redstone...and Ben.” Brick made the introductions. It was evident that they knew who I was, but the response from Brick’s wife was nevertheless very formal and without cheer, although the uncle was somewhat more lively.
    Brick’s wife, Susan, a raven haired, dark-eyed and beautiful woman, made some unintelligible comment, to which Brick admonished, “Please speak English; wehave guests.”
    Susan examined Brick with a brief, neutral expression, then proceeded to politely ask me into her home, with only the slightest hint of a smile on her lips.
    In spite of being courteously invited inside, I did not feel welcome, and had the distinct feeling of some ill-will directed towards me. Ben was essentially ignored, although he too was invited indoors. It was not the triumphant homecoming that I had expected and hoped for Brick, but he did not seem surprised, although I had the impression that the presence of the uncle was unexpected and maybe even somewhat annoying. Possible drama in the post-apocalyptic world for my great friend.
Damn
.
    Although there were undertones of something negative, we enjoyed a meal that was entirely satisfactory, comprised of a good variety of prepared dishes, some of which were fresh off of the vine.
    Brick and his wife took a walk outside before the sun had set, while his uncle, Ben and I relaxed near the fireplace, engaged in idle conversation. Brick’s and Susan’s home was tastefully decorated in modern style, with many native American contributions, and even a few pieces of New Orleans artwork. Overall, a comfortable and homey effect. Even so, I was uneasy at detecting no sign of children.
    Later in the evening, I was provided a comfortable bed in a small room upstairs. I noticed that Brick’s wife retired to her room alone. I wanted to stand by my lifeand death friend, to give him a loyal ear, but the circumstances were not right, and the necessary distance from my warrior friend made me ache to be back on the road. I did not like it there, and I felt deep resentment towards anyone who would mistreat this gentle, yet brave man, or cause him any pain whatsoever. In any other circumstance, I could and would take forthright action, as is my nature, but it was not my place to be so bold there. I could feel sadness in this great man who had become my brother. I felt weak and powerless to help him, a situation and feeling that I detested to my core. As my anger and frustration grew, I knew that I must press on without delay.

    In the morning, the world seemed brighter. The air was cool, and Brick’s uncle was inquisitive and affable. He had learned of a few of our adventures, but asked us to fill in gaps, or to correct distortions presented on the radio or by those extremely rare gossip carrying travelers who were actually heading somewhere east, when all others were moving west.
    Eventually, Brick and I had a few moments alone.
    “I guess I’m not the white captive they were looking for.” I joked, remembering a bit of humor that Brick had placed upon me early in our friendship.
    “Ah, Nicki,” Brick replied, “How can I apologize for someone like her, but I do so anyway; and I do notknow what to make of this long absent uncle. Unfortunately, there are very few others left in the area, but it is home and I am here.” Then he paused heavily.
    “My boys did not make it, Nicki. They fell ill later in the epidemic. They did not share my resistance.” My heart broke for my dearest friend as he softly shared the tragic news. Of all the sadness in this new world, Brick’s loss cut especially deep, and I could barely maintain my own calm. I would do anything for this