Page 41 of One Sultry Summer

Valerie Masterson

As I was being driven to urgent care, I gazed out at the countryside, homes, and buildings. My heart breaks as I look at the devastation around me from the tornado. Even when the siren wailed, it didn’t seem real. The once tranquil city was damaged. Rooftops are missing, cars have been upturned, and trees are uprooted from where they once stood tall and strong.

This is nothing like anything I’ve ever experienced before. But I watched the community come together, pulling each other out of the rubble, looking for missing pets, and just hugging each other. Despite the overwhelming destruction, a sense ofdetermination and unity prevails among the residents. Neighbors helping neighbors, collaborating, sharing resources, and supporting one another.

Their resilience and spirit demonstrate the strength of human kindness. Together, they will rebuild their lives, proving that even in the face of unimaginable loss, hope and unity can prevail.

As we stepped out of Wyatt’s truck, I noticed there was a long line of people waiting to be treated for minor injuries. His staff were already on hand, despite their own lives being uprooted. They set up a triage center and worked tirelessly, providing medical assistance and comfort to those in need. Their dedication and selflessness were a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment.

Wyatt asked me to follow him, but my feet wouldn’t move. When he looked back, I was still in the same spot.

“Valerie. Why aren’t you moving?”

“I’m going to the back of the line and wait my turn. Please help treat the others first. I’ll be okay.” He knew I would flat-out refuse if he argued with me. He nodded and joined his staff. I got in line and held my wrist in place.

My cellphone rang. I pulled it out of my pocket and saw it was my mom calling. I also noticed the remaining battery life was down to twenty-seven percent. When I answered, I was only expecting to hear my mother’s voice, but people spoke at once. My mother hushed them.

“Val, honey, are you alright?”

“I’m fine. I just got a little banged up, it’s no big deal.”

“Are you still in Skybrook?” Rae asked.

“Yes. I’m currently at urgent care waiting to be seen.”

“What’s wrong? I thought you said you were fine?” My other friend spoke above all the rest.

“Ronda, I said I got a little banged up. Mostly because I tripped and fell. It’s no big deal.”

“Well, whether you like it or not, we’re on our way,” Layla said.

“Layla, should you even be traveling in your condition?”

“I’m only a few months along, I’m okay to travel. We’ll be there before you know it.” I knew none of them would take no for an answer

“Okay. Mom, are you still there?”

“Yes, hun. What is it?”

“My phone battery is low, so I need to reserve what's left remaining. One more thing before I say goodbye…I love you, mom.”

“I love you too, Val.” The phone disconnected. Although Abby told me Devin was fine, I still wanted to hear his voice. I had deep guilt about leaving him alone at the hotel. His phone rang a few times. I was afraid that he would be stranded without food and water.

“Hello?”

“Thank God you’re alright!”

“I should say the same about you, Missy. Iwas worried sick, thinking of the worst-case scenario.”

“Come on. You were the first person I texted. Come to think of it, you’re the only person I texted.”

“Seriously, are you alright?”

“I’m fine, just a couple of bumps and bruises. Nothing that won’t go away in time. How about you? Are you alright?”

“I may be a little traumatized, but nothing a strong drink with you wouldn’t fix.”

“You got it.”

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