Author's Note

Sorry I haven't updated in so long, I have no excuse. Please forgive my terrible-ness and review for this chapter?! Oh, and just so you know, this book is set after MR2. Before MR3, so Ari isn't dead...not that he has anything to do with this chapter...

That's the Way Life Works

Chapter Three

I rubbed my puffy eyes in privacy, as I had flew off to an abandoned cave to avoid Fang's concerned and poisonous stare.

My heart was thumping fervently and my skin was flushed. I leaned against one of the stone walls and inhaled deeply. How was I ever going to get over the embarassment? I had just sat in Fang's arms for hours and bawled my eyes out. He'll think I'm such a baby.

But wait, why do I care so much about what Fang thinks? I shouldn't. It's not as I am infatuated with him or anything...

My wandering--and slightly embarassing--thoughts were interrupted by someone clearing their throat. My gaze wandered over to where a familiar face stood. Ari. He grinned menacingly and walked towards me.

"Hello, Maximum. Nice to see you again." he sneered.

"I would like to say the same about you, but lying isn't very ladylike." I shot back with as much venom as I could muster. His gleaming eyes turned their scorch upon me, and I narrowed my eyes at him.

"Looks like you haven't changed," he muttered.

"What do you want?" I asked acidly. He stepped closer, running his sharp finger along my jawline.

"You. I want to take you back to the...School." he said slowly. "For good. No escaping, no fighting. A peaceful agreement."

"If I've always said no before, what makes you think I'll say yes this time?" I inquired. He stared at me for an achingly long period of time before answering.

"The Flock is gone now." he said, releasing that weapon. His words burned me to the core. For a moment, I forgot to breathe. "They're gone, and it's just you and Fang. You can easily lose him, right? Or would you prefer to bring him with?" I glared.

"You took my Flock away, and you are not taking away Fang." I barked. Ari put his hands up in defense.

"Fine." he smirked. "We'll bring him with. But we have to have you, Max." I shook my head.

"I'll never go." He smug smile turned to a frown.

"Fine. Maybe not today, or tomorrow, or a week from now. But you will come with me someday! You'll have to eventually." And with that, he turned on his heel and jumped off the edge of the cliff, snapping out his awkward wings and flying away.

Author's Note

What did you think? Please share! I liked this chapter myself...I'll try to update soon, but ideas are welcome and needed!!! (Hint, hint!)