Gordo sat back down in his chair, away from the mobs of people with their fake words of sympathy about Lizzie and Miranda's death. That's what most of them were there for, anyway. Offer your pity. How could they be so insensitive? He knew that others were sad---their families, especially. But did anyone really feel exactly what he was feeling at that moment? They were all there--- familes, friends of the families, classmates, even ex-friends. But their best friend, the one who had known them for forever, the one who got to know them better and even more in-depth than anyone else on this earth. Wow... that's weird to think about. Then again, it wasn't like they were celebrities. But then why did it feel like they had touched so many lives?

He could feel their stares burning into his flesh. And he knew what they were thinking: Why would anyone separate themselves from the group in this so-called time of need? It was just what people thought...

Hey, Gor-don, Ethan said, taking a seat next to him. Gordo felt undeniable indifference towards this kid that sat in the next seat over. Listen, man, I'm really sorry about what I said earlier. Not so much as a glimmer of sorrow hinted in his voice.

Gordo said blankly, I forgive you.

I'm serious, Gordon. I know what you're going through. That last comment set him off.

You know what I'm going through? I'm...I'm sure you do, Ethan. I'm sure you know what it feels like to have your two best friends dead and no one around that gives a damn.

How can you even say that? We're all here, we're all feeling what you're feeling. We all care.

No, you don't, Gordo said, not paying attention to the people watching their fight. You care about the McGuires and the Sanchezs. But no one cares about me, no one understands waht I'm going through, and most importantly, no one is feeling what I'm feeling.

You know, man, you're being really selfish. You weren't the only one who was friends with them.

Gordo swallowed back tears rising to his head. Maybe it was true. Maybe he was being selfish, and he should try to connect with people. After all, they were human beings. And they could offer some words of wisdom.

He looked back over at Ethan. Then again, Ethan isn't really a words of wisdom kind of guy.

He was trying--and failing-- to be more rational. Everytime Ethan spoke, it was just another thing to set him off. The way he kept talking about Lizzie and Miranda disrespectfully...it hurt Gordo to even hear those names, bringing back painful memories of the night before, and those obituaries, now deeply embedded into his mind.

And then there was Matt. Energetic little Matt, now lying in a hospital. And no one would say how, or why. But if optimistic Matt couldnt' take it anymore, how could Gordo? Matt, who was what now? 14? 15? Barely into high school?

Gordo resorted to trying to rationalize the whole situation. Was it just a coincidence that it happened so soon after...you know? Or was that just the cherry on top?

God, it's all too complicated. Maybe I should give my mind a rest.


Then, Kate walked over. Kate, who hadn't even been their friend since 6th grade, was there, worrying over all of this. Why is she even here?

Ethan wants to know if you want to come and sit with us, she huffed.



Whatever, Gordo. Your loss, she said, as she flipped around to walk back to the rest of the pack. Spotaneously, Gordo grabbed her wrist.

Wait, Kate. She shook him off of her.

What do you want, Gordon? she sneered.

Why do people think that? He looked up into her eyes. He needed an honest answer, for once. Why he was looking for an honest answer from Kate, no one will ever know.

Think what? she said, her voice softening a little.

That I can't heal by myself? That I need someone to talk to now? Kate sat down next to him and smiled.

How should I know? She laughed. And somehow, so did he.

--------------------------

[A/N: Don't think it's gonna end there! No way, no how. But I am trying to start a little resolution. But you never know, I might just throw in another conflict and it'll start all over again. You just DON'T know with me.

Anyway, I realize I said Gordo has known Lizzie and Miranda for . And yes, I do realize he hasn't known Miranda all his life, but let's face it, is a very loose term nowadays. I meant more like a long time rather than all my life.

Sorry if you didn't like how this chapter turned out. Blah to you if you didn't.

Speaking of that, how do you people feel about a Kate/Gordo relationship?

Just kiddddding!

Sorry for the really long time without an update, too. It's been 15 days, to be exact. I have an excuse for practically everyday that I missed. Snow days, days without the computer, days off from school, sick day, party, etc. Next to be updated is: The Great Hillridge Junior High Reunion. In fact, I already started writing the next chapter and because I haven't updated in *so* long, I might post it tonight. MIGHT being the keyword.

Let me know what you think of my STORY! Please review, thanks.]