Eli drew a red 'X' over today's date on his calendar. The ink was running out, so he tossed the marker over his shoulder. Of course, he'd have to pick it up sooner or later, but he was in a good mood. One more day had passed, so he was happy. Now he only had 2 years, 9 months, and 18 days left until his surgery.

His parents wanted him to walk again, but were against the surgery because of its risks. After excessive pleading, and some help from Clare, they finally agreed to look into it. They set the date, but it was in the distant future, just incase he changed his mind.

"Eli." His mother called from the kitchen. "Breakfast is ready!"

"Coming, mom!" He yelled back, rolling himself out of his room, which was on the first floor for convenience. He made his way over to the kitchen table. His mom set some oatmeal down in front of him.

"Oatmeal again?" He complained.

"If you don't like it, then you can make your own breakfast, sweetie."

"Fine." He sighed, digging his spoon into the mushy oats. Barely a minute later, he heard a car horn honk. He dropped his spoon back into the bowl, although he wasn't anywhere near being finished with his breakfast. "Bye, mom." He left the house before his parents could say another word.

He spotted Clare's car parked in his driveway. She smiled cheerily; her being a senior, and it being her last day. Eli was a junior, though, and he didn't know what he'd do without Clare next year. But, he'd just have to survive…

Clare helped him into her car, and then drove off to school. Since they were a little bit early, they could just hang around outside.

When the bell rang, Clare walked Eli to class, although he insisted that she doesn't have to wait on him. He was paralyzed, not an infant.


Eli hugged Clare tightly. Of course this wasn't the last time they would see each other, but with her starting college, he expected her to not want to hang around the "crip" anymore. But he knew her better than that, which was why he wanted her to be able to experience every moment of college, instead of waiting around for him.


I know, LAME start, but it does get better!. Please review!.

P.S. - Anyone want to guess why it's called "Twenty-Nine"?.