I let out a large yawn as I woke, stretching a little bit out of instinct. I took my time getting up, knowing that I might never sleep here again. I felt a shiver go through me at the thought of home. I missed my family a lot, but surely they knew what I did? How could I leave for a long time and come back unannounced. I had to make up an excuse. I could tell them that Ashfur and I fell into the river, killing him with rocks and dragging me underground. I could claim to have been abducted by ShadowClan, a hostage to use for their advantage. But a part of me knew that I couldn't lie. Even if I had been lied to all my life, I still felt like it was wrong.

But everything in my life seemed to go wrong. I should have seen this coming. But I didn't expect the feeling of wanting to go home to be so strong. I thought that I would have been happy here forever, but my heart said otherwise. And if there was anything that I did the most, it was follow my heart. Even if someone had to die. Hopefully only Ashfur. Did the guy ever make it StarClan in the first place? I knew that while he did was cruel, he didn't break the warrior code. He was just trying to ruin our lives. Because some things could be stronger than the code.

Rubbing my arms, I gave the cave one last glance around, feeling my heart sinking in my chest at the memories flooding my head. I didn't know how many moons I have been here, but I have enjoyed every last bit. My leg had recovered completely, no sign of there ever being any injury. Who knows if the entrance was still trapped by all of that rock. I felt like myself was being ripped in half on the inside. This was my home for a while. To leave it makes me depressed. I knew that Fallen Leaves would be sad that I never said goodbye, but maybe it was better that way. I wouldn't have to see the look of loneliness in his gaze. Would I even ever see him again.

Feeling a lump form in my throat, I made my way to one of the main tunnels that lead to ThunderClan. But as soon as I saw the opening, I saw Fallen Leaves waiting for me. He must know what I was going to say because he looked so sad.

"Fallen Leaves. . ."

"You're leaving, aren't you?" his green gaze met mine, glistening as if he was about to sob. I felt my throat tighten at that look. My heart pounded hard in my chest at him. This was so hard to do. But I didn't belong in these tunnels. I belonged with my Clan.

"I-I feel like it's time," I answered, voice cracking a bit, but not enough to stop my words. "I tried to deny it all this time, but I really do miss my Clan. I shouldn't have taken advantage of your hospitality for so long."

"You didn't take advantage, Hollyleaf. But I can see what you want to do."

"Fallen Leaves," I wiped at my eyes as my vision started to blur. "Thank you for all that did for me. You were the greatest friend that I had in a long time. If it wasn't for you, I would have died a long time ago. Thank you."

"It was nice being your friend as well," Fallen Leaves gave a sad smile as tears ran down his cheeks. "I've been alone for so long. You were a great source of light. I know that my family won't be coming for me. They all left. Everyone leaves me eventually."

Feeling my emotions bubble up, I ran over and hugged Fallen Leaves as hard as I could, sobbing into his shoulder silently. He patted my shoulder before pulling me away from him a little. He gripped my shoulders as his tear-struck eyes met mine. He closed his eyes and leaned in.

His kiss was soft, as if it was his first ever. I sighed a little when he pulled away, his face red. Was it from the kiss or crying? It didn't matter to me. It went really well with his ginger and white hair. His green eyes felt stronger than the stars, as if they were the only thing keeping me safe. As if even the warrior code didn't matter. I realized with a heavy heart that I loved this boy. But how could I live, having feelings for a ghost? It confused me, but didn't discourage me.

"Goodbye, Fallen Leaves," I wiped my eyes again as I gave him one last look over, the wind getting a bit colder. "I will always love you."

"I will always love you, Hollyleaf. Goodbye, my warrior."