THE CHASM 

Part 4- Fire In The Lion

By Tessa Harvey

    Dylan kept reading and his surroundings faded, time seemed to stand still. He felt as though he was part of the events portrayed.
    The Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Lamb slain, so real he could smell the dust, hear a lion roar, limned in fiery light, thousands - countless thousands singing paeons of praise.
    There was a knock, the bedroom door opened, his uncle came in. The other world disappeared, like Narnia. Dylan tried to tell his uncle but the older man had another agenda. "I will pay for college for you," he coughed, clearing his throat. "I have been remiss and want to say sorry."
    But Dylan had to say, "I found my other family, uncle. I just suddenly met them in the street. And I want to be in touch." Gavin looked as though someone had hit him. "You are an adult, son - and someone needs to bridge this chasm."

    Ariella was very interested, even excited with Dylan's news of his family. "Why couldn't they trace you before?" Dylan scuffed one of his shoes along the path, looking down as they walked along in a nearby park. The days were lengthening, birds swelling on bushes and trees, returning birds hopping, digging up corners of carefully tended garden beds, sending soil flying as they searched for supper. Ariella could smell Spring.
    "It was my uncle's decree. And Nicholas or Nikko, my other uncle came here with his wife, Margaret and children because of a work transfer. "But," he added slowly, "I think it was God, because my uncle is changing. He is becoming more human in his views. He even offered to pay for college, but I am settled now."
    Ariella paused. "Dylan, God sent Jesus to bridge the chasm between God and people. He bridges chasms and heals divides."
    Dylan scuffed his other shoe in the dirt and under track. He looked lost and desolate. "I just can't believe, Ari," he whispered softly. "We can stay friends?" 
"If you have any shoes left, Dylan." Ari smiled tremulously, rain fell and they scurried away on different paths, alone.

Next: DESERT HIJACK

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