CHAPTER 40

Back in Texas within an hour, Derrick went to see Ben and found him sleeping outside. Having seen the tray of food in the living room, he knew the boy was still not eating of his own volition and was going to scold him but when he got outside, Ben was crying in his sleep.

He knew immediately that the boy was dreaming about a bad memory. Rolph had gone through the same. Sometimes he remembered the dream and sometimes, he didn't.

Signing, Derrick stooped and gently shook Ben's shoulder until the boy opened his eyes.

"Maaa!" Ben whimpered expectantly when he saw Derrick. His eyes then cleared and he quickly sat up. He cleared his throat in embarrassment.

"Derrick. You are back."

" Why is there a tray of food left untouched in there?" Derrick asked in an armless voice. He couldn't bring himself to scold the boy again.

"Errm...i was going to eat but slept off….i will go eat it now."

Ben stood up.

"It's cold alr