a last i have a dream

Slightpaw padded towards the rushing river. even in such cold weather, no layers of ice could form on the surface of the water. the white tom knew he wasn't supposed to be there, but he had to learn. he had to learn how to swim if he was to continue meeting Batpaw. the black she-cat sent butterflies in his belly. ever since they met, she was all the tom could think about. and for her he would do anything. even potentially drown. sliding into the rushing water, he took a deep breath and plunged in.

almost immediately, he regretted his recklessness. Slightpaw kicked with his paws to keep his head above water. at least he had taken off all his beautiful accessories. he could hardly find any, let alone loose any. the water soaked into his long fur and seemed to drag him down into the depths of the water. waves sent water down his throat as he spluttered for breath. gasping for air, Slightpaw desperately churned his paws under him to at least keep his head above water. the river swept the tom downstream. Wait! How do I get back! He thought in panic.

it felt like forever before the distant oak tress loomed in the distance. the tom had been swimming for some time, despite the rushing of the river. little by little, he learnt and adjusted his movements: crane his neck to keep his head above water, churn his paws in a pattern, in a motion that resembled kicking the water underneath him, and using his tail to balance as if on land.

as he came closer to land, Slightpaw stretch out his paws and gripped onto a rock. slowly he hauled himself onto land and collapsed from exhaustion. he closed his eyes and stayed there for a long time, hearing nothing but his own breathing.