Simon watched as Baz came out of nowhere and stepped directly in front of him. The bolt of light smashed into Baz's chest, and he fell to the ground, his eyes wide; his mouth hanging open.

"No . . ." Simon whispered as he dropped to the ground beside his friend, and the Humdrum's laughter filled his ears. "Baz . . . Baz, say something!" Simon shouted as he grabbed Baz's arm. The boy didn't move, and his eyes looked glazed. Simon couldn't tell if he was breathing or not. "Baz!" he screamed again.

Baz jerked and he began to gulp down air, his stormy, gray eyes filled with panic. Simon's fingers tightened around Baz's arm, and the boy turned his head slightly to look at Simon, the panic slowly receding.

"Simon?" he whispered. Simon shifted, and grabbed Baz's hand in his own.

"I'm right here. Baz, I'm right here. Please . . . please don't - " Baz scowled.

"Don't be ridiculous. I'm not leaving." He coughed, his whole body shaking, and his words seemed to lose their meaning. "Go," he paused to regain his breath. "Go. Face your Humdrum. I'll be fine." Another pause. "I promise." Simon shook his head, wishing that the tears that were forming would go away.

"I . . . I can't leave you."

"You have to Snow. This isn't just about me, and you can trust me. I'll be fine," Baz said, his lips pursed. Simon nodded slowly, and brought his other hand up to the boy's face. Baz closed his eyes and leaned into the soft hand.

"Promise?"

"Promise." Simon let go, and stood to leave, but Baz held him back for a minute.

"One more promise." Simon looked confused, so Baz continued. "Promise me you'll come back." Simon only nodded, and as he walked away Baz let the tears fall freely down his face.

Okay, the next chapter starts the same way, but there's a different ending. I hope you like it. Tell me which one you liked more!