Olivers throat felt thick. His hand went to his blond hair. Its color matched the womans perfectly. And his eyes were the same brown as the mans, completely unlike his familys matching blue eyes. Nothing had ever felt right in his life. His family had never felt like his own. Could it really be that the Blues werent his parents? That Chris was not his brother? Would he sound crazy to suggest that these people were his parents?

His voice wavered as he spoke, hitching with hope. Are you my parents?

Immediately, the couple burst into grins. They took hold of one anothers hands.

Thats right, the woman confirmed. Were your mom and dad.

Mom. Dad. He repeated the words in his head as if they were some new, alien concepts.

But I dont understand, he said. I have a mom and dad. How can you be my parents?

The mans expression faltered, then dropped. He looked sadly at the woman, then back to Oliver.

We lost you, he said, his voice strained. Its very complicated.

Olivers mind began reeling. It was too much to comprehend. But a sense of understanding overcame him, like all the pieces were fitting into place. Of course he wasnt a Blue. He didnt even look like them. They shared no similarities or interests. Hed always been the black sheep of the family and this would explain why.

These people, the man and woman of his visions, were his real parents. His mom and dad. Saying it in his head didnt feel strange, he realized. It felt right.

Just then, the image of his real parents started to fade.

Where are you going? Oliver asked.

Youre waking up, his mom said, gently.

But where are you? Oliver asked, exasperated. Why do I only see you when Im dreaming? Where can I find you in the real world?

Theres no time to explain, his dad replied. But you will see us again. Soon.

And one day well be reunited, his mom added. Properly. Well be together.

The two figures were little more than shadows now.

Dont leave me! Oliver cried.

We never leave you, his dad said. Oliver couldnt even make out his features anymore. Remember that. Were always with you.

Then, just like the sound of the whispering wind, Oliver heard his parents parting words.

We love you.

CHAPTER THIRTY SIX

Oliver felt a gentle shaking on his shoulders. His eyelids fluttered open. He was looking straight into Esthers emerald eyes.

Oliver lingered for a moment, gazing at her pleasant features. Then the grogginess in his head started to fade and he remembered where he was; Professor Amethysts airplane. He sat bolt upright.

Unlike with the sleep pod, Oliver could tell that hours had passed. His body was stiff. His neck cricked painfully as he looked about him at the interior of Professor Amethysts strange airplane.

The engines were little more than a gentle background hum. There was no telltale signs of jostling.