Four little girls in summer dresses, with blue satin sashes, carrying pocket umbrellas in case of a drizzle. But it is a warm sunny day on the promenade and there is nothing to fear in the weather, only the stain of the sun against their porcelain skin. They journey together, skipping awkwardly, but quickly towards a shallow creek. Bursts of giggles are absorbed into the aged tree trunks surrounding their “secret hiding place.” This shallow creek has been a part of many secrets told, some in whispers, and others by just a look from one shy girl to another. Regardless, this place was special. And as they aged, becoming the best of friends, they never forgot the days spent by the creek. But as more time passed life got in the way, and some moved to other countries, others found new secret spots, and those left never recovered. Not until the death of one of their own would bring everyone back. Back to the beginning.
(Our secret spot was the apartment swimming pool in L.A. Little did I know that would be the last time I saw you. After watching I Love Lucy with a bowl of rice pudding, you complained of being tired and went home to sleep. You died in your bed on a hot summer July day. Your parents still said hello to me every morning but the bags under their eyes grew bigger and bigger. I know you are among angels. I love you).
