Epilogue To Henry's House By Edgar Allan Poe

Henry’s Story
They lay side by side in the middle of the far- reaching corn field, the stocks folded over them just enough to allow streaks of sunlight taint tear-streaked skin. Their loose spines bent in compliance to the two tortured souls. There was a calm stillness that Henry too often sought, but never found. To him, there had only ever been an unnerving stillness that dwelt within like a parasite, feeding not only his sorrow, but also his happiness. He felt it writhing wherever he went, desiring freedom from his impure skin. It was no longer. Henry reached to his left and let his hand rest upon Poe’s warm stomach. He matched his breath with the mutt’s and together they inhaled and exhaled as an inseparable pair. Poe’s discolored eyes fluttered peacefully and found their solace

Perhaps it was natural intuition that instilled a sense of finality in today’s resting. It would be their last day of refuge spent besides each other and in this moment they were at peace with those odds. Poe had grown weak. Before Henry, there were years of spent misery that failed to tear apart his weathered limbs. However, he could not escape relentless time and despite Henry’s unyielding hope, love could not conquer all. His ears that remained perked and alert to any sign of danger, now fell gently upon his furred face. The surface of his paws were torn and well- worn from a lifetime of aimless wandering. Above them, a lonely hawk spread it’s daunting wings and took flight. Their eyes traced its valiant departure with quiet curiosity. Under his palm, Henry felt Poe’s chest stutter slightly and turned onto his side to face his only companion. He wrapped his arms around and pulled him into a tight embrace. Burying his face into the nape of Poe’s neck, they inhaled together. Henry’s silent tears fell and the wind bowed its head, as they released one last exhale together. At last, the boy and