CLI

Two years, six months, and six days after Henry's disappearance

(continued)

It's possible this will be the last time I write in my journal. That's not my intention, of course, but…

But in an hour, we'll begin the "rescue operation," as Dad explained to me. Dad, Mom, Jonathan, Nancy—whom Jonathan filled in on everything a couple of years ago—Robin (Steve's friend) and I will be going.

Will is staying behind to take care of Poe. I already said goodbye to him: I pet him for a long time and kissed his little head over and over until he decided he'd had enough and moved away from my lap. That's fine—I'll be back to bother him again soon.

As for Kali and Dr. Owens, neither of them will be coming with us.

The scientist, after all, isn't skilled with weapons, and Dad thinks he'd just be "a burden" to us. Kali, on the other hand, doesn't see this as "her fight". I can't blame her for putting herself first, especially after she's already helped me regain my powers (not to mention her abilities are more psychological than physical).

So she said goodbye to me with a tight hug and assured me that I would prevail. Kali's confidence in me—just like that of every member of my family—gives me strength.

Another person who came to see me before I left was Max. She, of course, knows everything and is pretty angry about not being included. Unfortunately for her, I'm the one who doesn't want her to go. Actually, I'd go alone if I could, but I can't deny that I need help (not to mention that there's no way to convince Dad, Mom, or Jonathan to sit this out). Besides, all of them know how to handle weapons—Max doesn't.

"I'm never speaking to you again if you don't come back." Max's contradictory threat made me laugh, but I promised her she wouldn't have to worry: the only way this ends today is with me coming back.

Yes, no gloomy thoughts—I'll be back after rescuing Steve.

And… Henry.

Of course, there's no way Eleven's promise—well-intentioned as it is—could be enough to reassure her.

No, of course not. Now that she knows her friend must already be in the other dimension, Max is pacing like a caged animal. Well, her trailer is too small for that, so in reality, she's pacing around the courtyard, kicking every empty can she comes across.

"Wanna watch a movie or something?" Billy asks from the trailer door, clearly worried about his little sister, even if he doesn't understand what's going on.

Her brother's concern tugs at her heart. Especially when she remembers Eleven's role in repairing, or even building, this bond between them.

"I'm fine." She offers him the best smile she can manage. "I just have an important test tomorrow," she lies.

"Then wouldn't it be better if you studied or something?" he replies.

Max raises an eyebrow and gives him a look that says he's completely lost it. "Did you just tell me to study? You, Billy?" With a grimace and a shrug, Billy takes that as a 'no' and heads back inside. "And put a shirt on!" Max yells after him.

His only response is a laugh.

Max shakes her head, an affectionate smile on her lips.

And then she hears footsteps behind her.

Her mom isn't supposed to be back yet. So why…?

The words get stuck in her throat when she turns around and sees who it is.

His hands crossed behind his back—she knows it even without seeing them. His unreadable smile. His blond hair.

His eyes—a deeper blue than hers.

"You—"

Henry tilts his head in that way that's so distinctly him. "Good evening, Maxine. May I borrow a few minutes of your time?"

Of course this guy would show up just like that, as if nothing had ever happened.

As if he hadn't broken her friend's heart.

Max forces a smile, her eyes narrowing: "Sure. But first…"

And before Henry can react, she pulls her shoulder back and delivers a punch right to his face.