Hey guys! I think I am FINALLY ready to get to the good part of the story. I hope I can write it as well as you expect me to.

Love you!

-wise_yet_harmless

IGGY'S POINT OF VIEW

I gasped awake, the fuzzy memory of a nightmare still stuck in my head. It was funny- I could always see in my dreams. There was always color, shapes and people in my dreams. I guess that's how I didn't forget what things looked like. Colors, for instant. There was no way to describe them, no way to show a blind person what they were. They were more like an idea than a physical trait to a blind person. I couldn't tell a difference between my skin and Ella's, even though I knew she had a darker complexion. She also had darker hair, thick and curly...

Wait a second!

Ella.

I totally forgot. Today was the day. I stumbled off my bed, knocking into boxes strewn across the floor as I made my way to the other side of the room and threw open the blinds. The warmth of the sun hit my arms and face, letting me know it was morning.

I threw on some clean clothes, feeling my way down the stairs and into the kitchen. Ella was always awake before me, making coffee. I think she did it especially for me, since we both knew she could sleep in until noon and didn't like coffee all that much. The thought made me grin.

"El?" I asked quietly, not knowing if Fang was still sleeping or not.

"Hey there," she said, putting her hand on my shoulder in greeting. I picked her up, hugging her tightly. She laughed.

"What has you so excited?"

"So much is happening today!" I exclaimed, setting her down.

"True. Have you packed everything?"

"Just about."

As it turns out, my dorm had most of the things I'd need to survive. Since I wasn't taking much, I offered the house to Ella and Fang, since my parents probably wouldn't be around. Fang wasn't into it, but told me he would come if they needed it. I guess he figured his dad was long gone and they could back to their own house. Honestly, I wish they would just come with me. Then they'd be far far away from their creep of a dad.

But anyways.

"I'm going to wake up Fang, alright? You get breakfast started," Ella requested, her almost silent footsteps leaving the room. I pulled out my favorite cooking supplies and got to work, thinking to myself.

Clothes? Check.

Books? Check.

Uniform? Check.

Electronics? Check.

Bed stuff? Check.

I wonder if I should bring my thermometer. I doubt they have one that actually reads the numbers out loud. It's expensive too... I better.

I mentally gone through my material possessions hundreds of times and yet, I kept coming up with things I wanted to bring. It was driving me nuts, since I was afraid I would forget something. I mean, if I did, that would suck. On the other hand, it would be an excuse to come back and see Ella, but it would still be a pain...

To heck with it all.

You'll be fine.

.

ELLA'S POINT OF VIEW

I found Fang lying on his bed, facing away from me. He had his shoulders tensed and his arms wrapped around him like he was cold. When I placed a hand on his arm, he gasped, his eyes shooting open. He always slept guarded, and more than once he'd almost hit me in self defense. Lately, however, he had not even tried to defend himself.

Perhaps he was adapting.

The more likely scenario, however, is that he was more afraid.

"Fang?" I whispered softly to him, trying to shake him out of the terror that clung to his sleepy form. His shoulders relaxed and he placed a hand over mine, not looking at me.

"It's today."

"Indeed it is."

"You okay?"

Fang was not asking me lightly. He knew what this meant to me.

"I think so," I whispered back, my voice hushed. The last thing I wanted was to cause worry to anyone, especially my brother.

"Ella."

"I know, I know. I'll be fine. It won't be forever, and even if it was we can always write and-"

"Ella."

Fang turned to me, giving me a sad half smile.

"It's okay. You don't have to hide, okay?"

I nodded solemnly, not trusting myself to speak. Fang took me into his arms and held me for a moment, letting me take calming breaths until I was sufficiently recovered. After he released me, I helped him get his crutches and make his way to the table. Iggy hardly took notice of our company, his brow furrowed in concentration. He finished cooking, setting a large, delicious meal in front of us.

"Wow, Iggy! You've outdone yourself!" I said happily. Fang grunted in agreement. Iggy sat taller in his seat, grinning proudly.

"Thanks. It's going to suck cleaning up, but hey. I figured I better go out in style, yknow?"

Style indeed.

MAX'S POINT OF VIEW

I rolled my aching shoulder, trying to get as much range of motion as my injuries would allow. The pain was all but gone, though my flexibility was non-existent. I went back into a crouched stance, putting my fists in front of me. My physical therapist raised his gloved hands once more, urging me to try and hit him with a quick, light motion. I punched out with force, hitting my target with more ferocity than I planned. Grinning triumphantly at my simple victory, I swung out with the other hand, almost hitting my second target before pulling back. My shoulder cramped, my muscles burning from my neck to my elbow. I held my arm against my body, grimacing.

"Max, listen to me. You can't regain all the strength you had by hurting yourself more. I know you want to be able to punch just as hard with your right hand as you did your left, but you have to give it time. Don't try to break my hand- just try to give me a high five like hit. Not so forceful. Your muscles can't take it yet. Try it again."

I took a deep breath and regained my stance. I hit first with my left, making it. Then, instead of using all of my force, I lightly hit my therapist's glove with my right fist. He didn't even move back, but he smiled.

"Very good."

"That was pathetic," I mumbled, shaking out my arm. I had almost no strength in my right arm.

"Max, I know it's not what you want. But you will get it back, I promise. You've made incredible progress, in fact. It takes other patients months to get where you are now. You remind me of, well, a boxer."

I looked up at him, alarmed.

"I'm not a fighter, I don't even-"

The therapist held up his hand, silencing me.

"Don't bother, Max. Just don't hurt yourself okay? You're not the only one who enjoys a good fight. We'll have you back in no time, like I said. No fights until then, okay?"

I nodded. "Yessir."

On my way out of the door, I got a phone call. I had been expecting one all morning.

"Finally, gosh dang it! Where have you been? I could have started a war by now!" I exclaimed into the phone, annoyed. I heard Fang grunt into the phone, amused by my impatience.

"What's the news?" I asked, sick of waiting.

"Ride comes at nine. You better come now."

"Are there tears?"

"Not yet."

"Has Iggy broken anything?"

"Only by accident."

"Alright. I'll be over in ten."

Fang hung up just in time for me to climb into my truck. I was surprised, I had been expecting more drama by now. Iggy had been more irritated with Fang and I recently, obviously stressed. Ella had been trying harder to hide her emotions, but we knew they were there. It only made Iggy more upset. They were never angry or upset with each other, however. They knew they didn't have the time to be. They were always calmed by each other's presence, and more agitated by Fang's and my own company. They had spent the last week visiting Iggy's favorite places, watching his favorite movies and eating his favorite foods. Tonight was the grande finale. We were going to Iggy's favorite place, a small hiking area at the top of the mountain.

When I pulled up to Iggy's, I took a minute to put my sling back on. My therapist said I didn't need it anymore, but it would speed my recovery.

I needed this arm back ASAP.

I had been at Iggy's so many times now, I didn't even knock. I walked in, finding them all sitting around in the living room, taping up boxes. Some were labeled with Ella's plain, neat writing and others with Fang's almost-illegible-totally-capitalized-handwriting. Even I had a hard time reading it, and my handwriting was pretty bad. Noob.

Even so, I sat next to my favorite cripple, smiling at him.

"Hey there, friend."

"Hey."

"How's it hanging?"

Fang looked up at his sister, seeing if she was listening. She was distracted, asking Iggy questions about labeling his boxes.

"She's okay, I think. She'll crash eventually, but not yet."

"Mkay."

"Hey, Ella. I think there is still one more box upstairs. It's pretty heavy. Iggy can help," Fang suggested. Ella and Iggy both stood up, going upstairs. When their voices were far enough away, Fang sighed, looking at me.

"What? What happened?" I asked, trying to read his face. He seemed tense, but not in the way I was used to. He looked afraid...of me? What the heck?

"Here," Fang said, holding out his hand to me. When I took it in my own, Fang pulled it down towards him. I scowled, confused and alarmed. Fang didn't stop, pulling my hand behind him onto his lower back. My fingers brushed agaisnt something...hard? Fang's shirt lifted slightly under my touch, revealing something cold underneath. Only when I felt the metallic surface did I realize what it was.

"That's a-!"

"Shh."

I pulled back, staring at Fang in disbelief. I searched his face for clues, but he only looked anxious about my reaction.

"But how-? And where? Why, Fang?"

"You know what happens to us today."

"...You go home."

"Exactly."

I thought about this for a moment, trying to piece the scenario together.

"Where did you get it?"

Fang said nothing.

"Fang, you didn't steal it, did you?"

"Only from someone who deserved it."

"Oh."

"Fang?"

"Yeah?"

I pulled Fang's face towards me, looking at him in the eyes through his dark bangs.

"Are you gong to use it?"

Fang hardly hesitated, listening to the sound of his sister laughing the background. He seemed to find his resolve, looking at me honestly.

"If I have to."

The rest of the afternoon was uneventful. I noticed the way Ella's eyes lingered on Iggy, as if he would disappear at any moment. I noticed Iggy's jumpy attitude, as if his senses were especially sensitive today. I noticed the way Fang never really relaxed, keeping the gun hidden from view. He was good at it too, making me wonder how many times he'd smuggled contraband in places he wasn't supposed to.

The thought made me sick to my stomach.

At long last, we ready to hike up the the top of the mountain. Everyone piled up into my truck, Fang next to me and the other two in the back. It wasn't a long drive, as we were already at the base of the mountain. When we got to our destination, we got out and started up the hill, our breaths labored. Iggy, by necessity, had brought his cane and was making small cracking noises as he mapped out the terrain. Ella helped him as well, giving him little details about the ground he was stepping on. I wondered how he would do without her when he left.

It was hard for all of us.

It took about an hour, but we made it to the top easily. The wind whipped around us, causing my hair to blow every which way. I stood next to Iggy, who had his eyes closed and a serene smile on his face.

"I can feel the sunlight best up here," he told me, taking in a deep breath. He then turned to Ella, pulling her to sit with him.

"What's it like?" he asked. She then began to describe the sunlight and the scenery around them, waving her arms as she spoke.

I took it as a cue.

"Hey, Fang. Walk with me," I requested, pointing a high rock about fifty feet away.

"We can sit up there and have the best view of the valley."

Even though I'm sure his legs were killing him, Fang obliged. We scaled the rock, helping one another. When we finally reached the top, we were both out of breath and sore. It was worth it, because the view was amazing. I could see all around me for miles. I laughed at the sight, delighted.

"Fang! We're on top of the world!"

Fang came to stand beside me, leaning on me for support.

"Isn't it great, Fang?"

"Yeah," he said quietly. We stood there together for a few minutes, observing the scenery. Once half of the sun had disappeared, Iggy called out to us that we should head out. We climbed back down, more slowly this time then our ascent. We took our time heading back to the car, all of us feeling the weight of what was about to happen. I silently drove back to Iggy's house, where we sat and waited for his ride. It wasn't a long wait. We were greeted by a kid no older than twenty, who said he would be Iggy's new roomate and campus buddy. He was trained in peer tutoring and said he would help Iggy know the campus landmarks in no time.

We loaded up the kid's car with Iggy's things and then looked at each other. The kid, Jason, said he's wait for us in the car and told us to take our time. I was the first to step up to Iggy and give him a hug, muttering my goodbyes thickly. Fang was next, giving him that weird, half handshake, half hug that guys do. Fang showed little emotion, but I knew he wasn't happy to be saying goodbye to his best friend.

We decided to give Ella and Iggy some time to say their goodbyes. We circled the block, saying nothing to each other. Neither one of us wanted to go back, so we headed in the general direction of my house. Fang suddenly stopped, and I thought he might need a break. He must have been exhausted.

"Fang? Are you-"

"Would it be justified?"

"Would what be justified?"

Fang said nothing, but pulled the gun out of his waistband. He held in his hands as if it were explosive. I new he wasn't happy to have it.

"Fang. Fang, look at me."

"Whatever you choose to do with this, I want you to know I have your back, okay? You don't have to worry about me or what I would think. It doesn't matter anyway. What matters is what you think is best."

"And if I'm not sure what's best?"

"When the time comes, you will."

Fang smirked and nodded, sticking the weapon back where he hid it. He pulled me in for a hug, kissing the top of my head. For a moment, everything was still.

Then we both jumped as Fang got a text. Not a second later, so did I.

It was from Ella.

SOS. HE'S HOME.

Fang and I looked at each other, our faces mirrored in the same horrified expression. Then we both turned towards Fang's house and ran as fast as we could.

He was there.

With Ella.

ELLA'S POINT OF VIEW (AN HOUR BEFORE)

"I guess this is it," I said glumly, looking out at the car that would be taking Iggy to his new home.

"Guess so. Hey, I hear they'll let me come home for holidays and such. It won't be that long."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

"I-uh, I'm going to miss you," I choked out. My throat closed at the loneliness I already felt creeping in. I bit my lip, trying to keep it inside. Even so, hot tears slid down my cheeks and my shoulders shook slightly.

"Hey hey hey. C'mere." Iggy pulled me in, stroking my hair as I sobbed. "I won't be far. You'll be okay. You'll be okay. Shh. It's okay," he cooed, calming me. When my tears subsided, Iggy held me at arm's length and laughed.

"What's that stupid saying? The heart grows fonder with space or something? Who knows, it could be true!"

"It could very well be."

"Ella?"

"Yes?"

"Be careful, okay?"

I almost started crying again, but I managed a weak "I will".

"Okay." Iggy hugged me one more time and then winked at me. He started to walk to the car, stopped, quickly came up and pulled me into a kiss, surprising me. He lingered there a moment before pulling back, grinning.

"Bye Ella."

"Goodbye Iggy."

He then strode off into the car, waving in my general direction as he passed. Even though he couldn't see it, I waved back, smiling.

Dazed with ache and happiness, I ran back to my home, desperate for my own comforting bed and belongings. I figured Fang would be there as well, with Max. I didn't want to speak with them, but I wanted them close. My sight was blinded with unshed tears as I ran, my heart feeling as if it would break. I knew we would see each other again, I knew everything would be fine, but it hurt with a pain I had never before experienced. It was a bittersweet feeling. I loved and resented it with such ferocity it took my breath away. Finally, finally, I pulled up to a building I had not entered in weeks. I ran through the open fence and to the back door. It was open, like I expected. We never locked that door, and I was guessing Fang was already back, waiting for me.

Because I didn't want to speak to anyone, I ran up to my bedroom and shut my door, laying down on my bed. I hugged my pillow and cried with relief, sadness and shock. There were so many feelings bubbled up inside of me, I wasn't sure exactly what was bothering me. I was just overcome with emotion.

After a few minutes, I heard the door to my hallway open and close. I wiped my tears, not wanting anyone to see me like this. Just as I was about to yell for Fang to leave me be for a while, a voice spoke out, chilling me to my very core.

"Ella, is that you?"

My father.

"Come out, little one. We haven't spoken in far too long."

I sat up, my muscles clenched in terror. I scrambled off my bed and locked my door before running to my closet and locking myself inside there. The footsteps continued, making their way outside my door. Then the sound of knocking rang out in the silence.

"Have you missed me, darling? Did you miss me? Let me in so I can see you."

I pulled out my cell phone and texted a message for help. Just after I sent it, a crashing sound scared me, causing me to cry out. My father was ramming himself into the door, trying to break it down. His footsteps would move away, pause, then charge into the door.

Crash.

Once.

Crash.

Twice.

Crash!

He was inside. His voice came clearer this time, his footsteps louder.

"Where are you, child? Don't you know it's rude to hide from your elders? I'll have to punish you if you don't come out."

I stayed where I was, putting my hands over my head. I shook so hard, my heartbeat was so fast.

Please don't find me. Please don't find me. Please don't find me. Fang Fang Fang please come. Help me help me help me helpmehelpme! Please!

There was a knock on my closet door. I squirmed away from his shadow, accidentally knocking over a box. It wasn't loud, but I held my breath as he went silent.

"Found you," he said.

.

.

.

.

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Cliffhanger. I know, I'm awful. I wanted to separate this into two chapters...but since I'm leaving for a week, I gave you both together. You're welcome.

What will happen?

Tell me your predictions!

I will write this as soon as I get back, Saturday or Sunday (I'm not sure just yet).

Until then, my loves.