Ripples appeared in the lake from fish swimming close to the surface. "What an easy life," she said with a deep resignation. Realizing that no answers were here, she marched towards the River of Hope. "I found hope here last summer. Perhaps this is the key. But what am I looking for?"
"The secrets of life," a voice said.
"Gray Cloud," she said, with a sigh. She turned towards him with a smile.
"I heard about the engagement," he said. Her smile turned to a frown. "Why does this bring you sadness?" he said.
"I'm not sad," she said, her voice crackling. "I'm glad Brett found someone. It's…" Her shoulders sank as her head drooped. "Gray Cloud, my mind is racing and mixed-up. How do I find the missing piece to show me what my dream means?"
"You have the answer." He smiled and left.
"Ooh. I know better than to expect him to give me straightforward answers. It's not in his nature." Megan picked up a stone and threw it in the river watching it sink. "Life, death, rebirth, renewal. Can anyone help me?" she shouted.
Feeling like a penned horse, Megan traipsed to the ranch. Brett and Faith stood by the barn, their hands meshed, showing the world they completed each other. An eternity of love showed on their faces. When they kissed, Megan's heart shattered. Tears fell and she sprinted into the woods. With her heart pounding, ready to explode, she collapsed onto the ground and pulled her knees to her chest. "Why did I react to their kiss?"
"You fear being alone."
"What? Who said that?" She looked around but saw no one. "I'm fine being on my own," she said.
"No, you are not."
"Excuse me?" Frustration rose into her throat, urging a scream, but nothing came out. Deep, relaxing breaths slowed the heartbeat. "Okay, so I don't want to be alone. I also don't want love to interfere with my goals of becoming a vet."
"Love strengthens you and your goals. Love gives you a better outlook on life, supporting your dreams and goals."
"How do I know when I find true love?"
"Your heart tells you."
"My heart," Megan scoffed. "How do I know when my heart is speaking versus my head?"
"You feel strong and capable."
Megan's shoulders sank. "It sounds difficult."