A Lit Spark.

by NinjaFics

Summary:

An alternate timeline where Firey doesn't try to save Leafy when she gets in trouble for stealing Dream Island, but instead lets her receive her punishment. Since there was no talk, Leafy thinks Firey is out for her. She spends her days alone in the harshly cold place called "Yoyleland." She develops survival skills and, in the process, becomes a person (or leaf) she never wanted to be. Will she ever learn to trust him again?

(P.S.- This does become romantic at some points, but isn't sexual^^ )

Chapter 1: It Just Won't Happen.

Leafy’s perspective: After I stole Dream Island, I was chased away by those I once trusted. Well- SOME I trusted. Now I have no choice but to deal with the sufferable cold weather and lack of entertainment in Yoyleland. I’m forced to eat the bitter fruit on the forbidden bushes…the fruit they call, “Yoyleberries.” Why you may ask? Well…it’s the only source of food around here. Unless you want to chew on hard bark off the trees.

Yoyleberries aren't just “a bitter fruit.” Yoyleberries have side effects (No, not just giving you a massive stomach ache…), but they turn whoever eats them into METAL. So guess who’s a metal leaf now, huh?
Survival may be tough in the cold depths of Yoyleland, but it is quite a peaceful place once I get used to it. I spend my time crafting razor-sharp knives for defending myself. I don’t accept others on MY land. I deserve a place to relax and think about my regrets. After all, it wasn’t my choice to live here.

The sun sets. The air is growing colder and the sky becomes dull and dark. I decided to get ready for my nighttime slumber in the bundle of shrubs. In Yoyleland, the Yoyleberry bushes are the only source of comfort and warmth. I may be getting attacked by bugs in my sleep, but there's nothing I can do. I place my knives by the bush for safekeeping and close my eyes.

* Leafy has frequent nightmares in Yoyleland.* - I’m in a dark abyss. I can’t see anything in front of me. My hands become arctic cold, and my legs become as weak as a twig. “Hello? Anybody there..?” I’m trembling in fear. Then a door appears in front of me. Do I open it?! A familiar voice spoke out to me. “…is that- you?” (Nope… ignore it…ignore it!) “Oh…how I miss you.” (I knew this was a lie.) “Come back home and compete again!” The familiar voice walks out of the wooden door that had been in front of me. It was Firey…frick. “Firey…I don’t want ANYTHING to do with you!” Silence. “Oh … please?” He grabs my cold hands, his warmth stopping them from being frigid for a bit. I looked down at them to see that they were no longer my normal hands. They were claws. 'WOAH…WHAT’S HAPPENED TO YOU!” Firey runs out the wooden door in fear. “W-What…WAIT!” My hands were now red-colored claws, my legs were no longer my legs but a set of red monster legs. “What’s wrong with me…what’s wrong with me…WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME!”

I woke up with uncontrollable tears in my eyes. Nightmares weren’t uncommon for me ever since I entered Yoyleland. My mouth felt dry and lingered with a metal-like taste. The thought of Firey wanting me back makes me SICK. He would never want me back! After the…the day. The day I stole Dream Island, the prize of the effortful first-place winner. “Why was I so…so STUPID”, I repeat to myself. Now I have no choice but to stay here…no hope, friends, or shelter.
I just want to…get back at them somehow. They FORCED me to run away. Especially…that flame. The one I used to call my friend, Firey. It’s no use, though. If I go back, I’ll just be driven further away this time. Things can’t be fixed. It just won’t happen.

 

This is old, and I have improved since then. I have the full story published on Wattpad if u choose not to wait for me to update this thing

Chapter 2: Let There Be Vengeance.

Summary:

Leafy's gone insane.

The thought of the nightmare still lingers in my mind. Why was I a monster? Why was Firey calling out for me?!? He was the one who wanted me gone in the first place. He had no use for me…he didn’t even want me to come to his island.
He let everyone else in but me.

My heart sank at the thought. Due to my frustration, I threw one of my knives at a tree in the distance. Lately, I’ve felt like my demeanor is changing. I've always wanted to be kind; I was raised that way. As of these days, though, that part of me is drifting further and further away. It’s like it hopped onto a plane to Hawaii and never came back. I just can’t seem to act like myself anymore. Am I becoming who I swore I’d never be? No… it can’t be true!
I look down at my metal hands, gripped onto one of my crafted knives. Then it hit me. A murderous instinct to want to hurt or seek revenge on someone.

Oh, Firey…I hope you anticipate my revenge.

Chapter 3: Climbing Towards Regret.

Summary:

Leafy tries to get back at Firey, but fails.

(Still in Leafy!'s POV!)

At this point, I was anticipating the day I could leave Yoyleland. Oh- by the way, did I mention how long I've been here? It's been four years. I feel if I stay here any longer I'd be dead. My stomach was rumbling as loud as thunder. Leaves need their source of nutrients after all. If I was going out to get my revenge, I would need a plan. First, I would need to collect sticks and branches to create some necessities. So, I got to work.

As I started to collect sticks, my surroundings felt unsettling. My head was spinning, my heart was pounding, and my stomach was rumbling, "I anticipate the day I can eat something that isn't a yoyleberry." The sky was becoming dismal and clouded even though it was daytime. Since I'm a leaf, I need sun. I felt myself becoming more drained by the minute, anticipating when I could rest. But rest wasn't an option. It is just a thought. I climbed up the dead, lifeless trees, even the slightly uprooted ones. I used my knives to cut through the branches (which took forever- but was my only source of a sharp object.)

I collected about ten sturdy branches along with twenty-five sticks. I felt this wasn't enough so I continued to look for more. The daytime was fading away as quick as a flash. The dark clouds started rolling in more by the second, blocking out any beam of sunlight. Then, a raindrop plopped down onto my face. But, I don't mind the rain. After all, I'm a leaf. I go through transpiration, the common process of water exchange. My calming moment of appreciating the rain turned into a moment of realization and panic. "OH I SHOULD COLLECT THE WATER WHILE I STILL CAN!" Since there's barely any water in Yoyleland, I have to catch the rain in one of my hand-crafted bottles for a source of hydration. I know... it sucks. I grabbed the bottle and placed it directly under a big cloud on the ground. The unreliability of this process is that it would have to rain for HOURS just to have a little bit of water. That's why it's better to just collect water from leftover puddles...if there is any.

I was freezing. As I had mentioned earlier; Yoyleland is frigid in the winter. "One last tree..." I said tiredly. The trees were wet and slippery, but I didn't let that stop me. This tree was different from the other, though. This tree was tall, large, and healthy. It wasn't the rotten-soft type of wood. It was just perfect. The heavy rain pushed against my face more and more as I climbed upwards, making it difficult to see. I had almost reached the very top of the tall tree until I heard something. The branch I was standing on made a loud *SNAP!* It echoed through the air as I fell forcefully to the cold, wet ground. I felt a sudden daze. The mud from the ground covered my metal skin, the raindrops hit my face rapidly, and my heart was beating like a drum. I tried to lift myself up, but I was too weakened by the fall. My head started to ache in pains I've never felt before. My eyes began to close like curtains. The fall knocked the wind out of me. I passed out in an instant, not knowing If I would or ever wake up.

Chapter 4: An Open Flame.

Summary:

He finds her.

Firey's POV: The world felt peaceful for once. There was no competition going on and everyone was off doing their own thing. It's been almost a full month since I've seen everybody. "What to do...what to do?" I decided to call up my dearest friend, Gelatin.

The phone rang loudly until he answered. "Yo, Fireboy! What's up?!"
I laughed. "I'm just bored, you know? I miss everyone."
Gelatin let out a sigh. "So do I, but overall I'm glad the competition is over."
I thought about it for a moment; "Definitely! I already knew I wasn't going to win season-two anyway...."
"Oh, Fireboy! What makes you think such a thing?! You're cool, the fans like you!" He paused. "What else could you possibly need to win?"
I hated to discuss this topic. But everyone knows I already won season 1, except I didn't. Why? It was ripped away from me by a certain... someone. "I guess so...but since I already won season 1 it wouldn't be fair if I re-won."
Gelatin let out a loud gasp. "WHAT! YOU NEVER TOLD ME YOU WON SEASON 1?!" He squealed with excitement and asked, "CAN I SEE THE ISLAND?!"

My smile faded. "Not today, let's just hang out around Yoyle City. My treat."
"Oh okay! I'll be at yours in a bit!"
The call ended.

A loud knocking sound arose as Gelatin pounded on my door. "Open up, Fireboy!!"
"Pfft- I'm coming!"
I opened the door to find Gelatin wide-smiling at me. "Are you ready to go?"
I smiled back. "Hell yeah!" I slammed the door and started sharing my kinetic energy with Gelatin. "So Gelatin, what did you want to do?"
"Hmm...want to go see what's open?"
My smile widened. "Sure!"
Gelatin and I walked through Yoyleland to get to Yoyle City. The sun was gleaming a beam of warm light onto the both of us as we reached our destination. "Oh my collagen!! I'm so happy to be here again!"
Although this place reminds me of some past memories I wish to forget, I still find myself pleasantly staring at the bundles of buildings. "Me too, Gelatin. Me too."
Gelatin excitedly pointed to the Yoyle Stadium while jumping up and down like a child. "C'mon, Firey!! I'm sure there's a game going on and I don't want to miss it!"
"Coming!"

*After the game*
Gelatin nudged me. "Wasn't that fun, Firey?"
I let out a chuckle. "It really was! I was expecting the other team to win!"
Spending time with Gelatin was always a blast, you can never have enough of his humor! "Should we start walking back to my house? It's past 4:00PM already!"
Gelatin thought about it for a moment. "Oh, sure!"
The walk out of Yoyle City was quite long. There are many different routes to take and as always, I chose to walk through the main plain of Yoyleland. Yoyleland is filled with numerous bushes covered in Yoyleberries and tall, shady trees.
As we were walking by Yoyle Woodland, Gelatin suddenly stopped in his tracks.
My mind flooded with thoughts of confusion and uncertainty. "Hey, what gives!"
I glanced at Gelatin as his body trembled in fear. "I-I think that's a dead body..."
My eyes widened in horror. What was he talking about?! "Move out of the way, Gelatin. Let me take a look."
I hesitated as I slowly stepped forward to get a closer look.
"..."
"Uhh-hey! Fireboy?"
The heat of my flame filled my body. My heart pounding, my hands shaking, and my legs trembling. "It...can't be."
Gelatin stepped forward so he could be next to me. "So...is it dead?"
I took a deep breath, remaining calm so Gelatin wouldn't suspect anything. I grabbed a stick from the cold, hard ground so I could poke...her with it.
*Poke.* Nothing. I was worried about her, even though I wanted nothing to do with her. I laid my warm hands on her chest. It was hard to tell if there was a pulse with the heavy duty metal covering her green skin like an eggshell.
I sighed heavily. "I think I should take her- *clears throat* them in."
Gelatin's expression revealed his extreme fear. "Are you sure about this, Fireboy?!? What if it's a trap!"
"Trust me... I got this."

I tried to lift her cold, limp body up into my arms, but Yoyle metal is heavier than I remembered. I could only hold onto her for a split second until my arms grew weak. "Ugh! If only Snowball were here when you needed him!"
"What do we do?!? Leave them here?"
Come on, Firey! Think!! "Do you happen to have an axe on you?"
"Firey, what do you think this is!!"
"Sorry, I know- it's a really dumb question-"
"OF COURSE I HAVE AN AXE ON ME!! Who do you think I am?!"
"Oh. I was expecting you to- not have one."
"Tsk tsk, Fireboy. You are just unprepared."
Gelatin unexpectedly pulled out an axe and dropped it on the ground. "What do you need it for anyway?"
I laughed. "I was going to cut wood so I could create something to put le- the body in!"
Gelatin narrowed his eyes at me. "Okay!"

*Firey and Gelatin make a pullable basket out of branches and bark to put the body in*
This idea wasn't very smart, as I struggled to pull the basket along with me. Gelatin helped me but it was still a struggle. Fortunately, we finally made it to my house after an hour of pulling. "It's 11 PM, Fireboy!!"
I huffed and puffed. "Sorry, you can go now if you need to. I can...take care of this myself."
He gave me a thumbs up. "Well- thanks for the experience."
"Thanks for the help!" I widened my smile and waved goodbye to him as he left.
Now, let's hope Leafy's consciousness comes back before the others find out about this.

Chapter 5: An Unwelcoming Return.

Summary:

She returns, but it isn't the same.

Firey's POV: The clock ticks. The nighttime remains cool and quiet as I settle Leafy down onto my fireproof couch. Her eyes were still closed like curtains. To be honest, I felt uncomfortable with her here. After everything that happened, I cannot find myself forgiving her.
As I sit here as stiff as a tree, I think about our past. I won the island after battling for two years. I remember being joyous about the fact that I was the one who received a victory.
Even though I won it fair and square, it was ripped away from me within a few minutes after I rejected Leafy when she wished to come into Dream Island. Why? Well, looking back at it now, it was quite a stupid reason. I decided not to let her in because she wasn't a fan of my Ferris wheel... I know, it's not a good reason not to let her into my island. I realize my mistakes now, but will she ever realize hers?
Watching MY prize get ripped away from me in the blink of an eye shattered my soul. Her way of dealing with the situation is what drove our friendship to ruin. Her choice was to use fake money to purchase the island...just because she wanted to feel better about herself.
"...ugh...my head."
I snapped out of my flashback as my heart started to pound rapidly. "L-Leafy...?"
Leafy's eyes slowly opened as she adjusted to the light that illuminated me. She scratched her head in confusion as she sat up. "W-where..." Her eyes frantically searched around the room until she finally made eye contact with me.
She paused as her pupils widened with alertness. "...grrr."
Sigh. "It's okay... I won't talk until you're ready." I reached out my hand to comfort her, but she quickly slapped it away.
She got up and dashed past me without speaking a word. "Wait, come back!"
She silently stood still like a mannequin until she finally decided to open her mouth. "H-How did you...find me." Her speech was awful. How long has she been out here for...? "It's...a long story. Look, I didn't mean to find you."
She lit up in furious anger. "SO WHY AM I HERE-?" She growled viciously as she pulled out a sharp knife, tossing it at my wall. I hesitated with my words. "I didn't want to leave you alone again."
Her teeth were sharp, her metal skin was scratched and dirty, and her hands were thrashed. She made worried noises and gestures as I walked closer to her. "I'M NOT READY! I'M NOT READY...!" Her eyes were closed and watery as she placed her hands on her head. "Ow...ow...m-my head..." Her whimpers interrupted the silence of the night.
My heart ached for her. I never thought I'd say this, but I feel bad for her. Maybe I should have talked about it back then with her after it all happened...I made a mistake of not doing that.
"Leafy, stop!! Talk to me...please." Instead of calming herself, she huffed and puffed louder and louder until she stormed off out of my house into the darkness of the night. "WAIT!!" She was gone in a flash, nowhere to be seen or heard of.
I couldn't just-leave her out there? Could I-?
I had no choice but to wait till morning to look for her. The darkness of her metal will be hard to find in the dark, and it was already past 1AM already.
I lay restlessly in my bed as my head filled with stressful thoughts. "Why did she act like that...?" Maybe I should bribe her next time with something...but what? "Oh! Food!!" I can tell Leafy had only been eating Yoyleberries because of her metal-coated body. "Well... I guess I will just have to wait till tomorrow."
Leafy's POV: My head throbbed with pain as I sprinted as far as I could from Firey's house. "Why did he take me in?!" My head pains reached my legs as I continued to run as fast as I could, eventually getting to a point where I had to stop. I lay down on the cold ground under a dead tree. My body was trembling from the cold air and sprinting. I jerked a smile as I thought about Firey's warmth. "Snap out of it, Leafy..." I said to myself. I decided to try to get some rest, even though I can't even remember how I got to where I am right now.
(Switching perspective)
Another one of Leafy's nightmares: Sharp pains covered her body as she tried to lift herself up. "S-So...painful...someone please...h-help me..." She overpowered her voice to her capability as she fell to her knees once more.
A distant voice filled the air. "You're nothing, little one."
"Who are you! Show yourself!" Drops of sweat dripped down her face while she struggled to stay awake. The walls started to close in on her as her screams echoed from each corner.
A glow of red appeared in the distance.
"WHO ARE YOU!" Leafy was stunned in a state of horrific fear.
"I'm you, dear..."
A thunderous rumble shook beneath Leafy's weak legs, aching her pains once more.
The glowing red creature spawned in front of Leafy and dragged its claws across her forehead. "This is who you've become...a hideous MONSTER."
In a swift flash, Leafy's eyes glowed a deep, cherry red. Her vision blurred with images of her past.
The evil had consumed her mind fully. There was no turning back.
———————————————————
The nightmare ended as Leafy opened her drowsy eyes. She sat up with urgency as her heart skipped a beat from the severe fear that consumed her mind. "Just another nightmare, Leafy." The visions of this so-called "Evil Leafy" have been coming back to haunt her ever since she became a part of Yoyleland. "It's no big fuss...", she repeated to herself. Leafy's mind drifted to the beautiful sunrise occurring right in front of her very eyes. The bright, warm feeling of the sun comforted her coldness. Just like how she felt comforted by Firey's bright, warm light. Maybe things could change for them after all. She lay where the sun shone down. Seasons were shifting, so was her demeanor.
"...I miss you, Firey."

Chapter 6: Will You Ever Learn To Trust Me Again?

Summary:

Danger is ahead.

It was officially changing into spring. Leafy laid out in the sun behind a bush as she relentlessly chewed on Yoyleberries. "I'm so sick of these..." she thought to herself.

Firey's POV: My eyes opened to the bright sunshine peeking through the blinds of my window. I pushed myself out of bed to open them. "It's nice to feel the sun for once." I snapped out of it and walked into my kitchen to cook up breakfast. I decided to make Leafy some pancakes so when I find her she can enjoy something besides Yoyleberries for once.
A few minutes later I was finally done making her pancakes. I turned off the stove, put syrup in a small container, and wrapped up 15 pancakes in foil so they stay warm.
I walked out of my door with a bundle of wrapped up pancakes in my hand, in hopes of finding her. "I know you're out there, Leafy."
With each step I felt the warmth of the ground. I sense the springtime when eye-catching bundles of flowers start to sprout. The elegant little buds of flowers provided me with a sense of peace and comfort as I continued on my journey.
About ten minutes passed and there was still no sign of her, until I spotted something shiny stuck in the dry tree bark. "One of Leafy's knives! She must be close by!"
*Rustle...Rustle* "Hello-?!"
The only sound that broke the silence was the birds chirping.
"I have something for you...please just come out." At this point I was desperate to help. I may have difficulty forgiving her but I can't leave her alone out here with nothing.

Behind that bush was nobody but Leafy herself. She remained silent as she heard the raspy fire boy call out to her. She missed him but not enough to trust him again.
Sure, it may have been her fault, but she tried to change for him in the past. She knows better now that what she did cannot be undone. If she were to show her face to everyone who participated in BFDI, she'd be killed in an instant.

"I'll just...set this here then. You're welcome."
I started to plod back towards my house when suddenly, the rustles of the bush grew louder. Her metallic shine glistened from behind the lively green bush. She quietly spoke as her eyes widened with interest. "...what is that-?" I could tell she was desperate for a change of food.
"I made you pancakes if you-"
Before I could finish talking she jumped out from behind the bush and tore through the wrapped foil with her teeth like a wild animal.
She disregarded the syrup as she tossed it away with her mouth and inhaled the pancakes within a couple of seconds.
"Must...have...more..." She grabbed my arms and looked me dead in the eye. She cleared her throat and aggressively asked, "WAIT- WHY ARE YOU HERE?!"
I quickly pushed her off of me. "Gee, a thank you would be nice, wouldn't it?" I was getting quite frustrated with the way she was acting. I shouldn't be but I most certainly am.
She narrowed her eyes and placed her worn out bitten hands on her hips. "Well- I guess I should be more thankful..." She grinned with pleasure as she demonstrated her gratitude for the pancakes. "Thank you."
My frustration faded away like the coldness of the winter. I let out a relieved sigh. "I came here to ask you something..."
Leafy looked away in denial as he spoke those words. "About what? About my- OUR past? Yeah, no thanks."
"I wanted to know if you're okay...I was worried sick about you after last night and-"
"Worried sick huh? What about all those years I've been stuck out here? Did you think of me then?!"
I stared blankly at the vibrant field of grass as I remained silent.
"That's what I thought."
My eyes became watery. I had to stop myself from crying or else it would leave quite a sting. "WHY DON'T YOU CARE...! I DIDN'T HAVE TO TAKE YOU IN WHEN I SAW YOU! YOU KNOW THAT, RIGHT? I COULD HAVE LEFT YOU ALL ALONE AGAIN BUT NO-!" I paused and took a deep breath. "I didn't want to. I wanted to make things better."
Leafy frowned. "I-I'm sorry for being difficult. This is a lot for me right now and- I don't think I'm ready."
She inched closer to me. "I missed you this morning. I miss you every Spring..."
Her words softened.
"You provided me with warmth and comfort when we were close..."
I wanted to disappear. Why was she still thinking of me while I wasn't? Am I a bad person?
"Y-You did? I thought you would have-"
"This place has turned me mad, Firey. I've gone through phases where I wanted you dead. Right now...I'm at peace."
Her eyes quickly widened with shock and regret. "I'M GETTING TOO COMFORTABLE WITH YOU..."
She sprinted away and climbed up a tree as quick as a flash.
My head was spinning with confusion. "What just...happened." Leafy was not acting anything like herself. She's definitely changed ever since...the incident.
Her cries filled the air. I saw her metal stem sticking out of the top of the tree.
"Would you get down from there? I don't want to argue-"
Her words trembled with sadness. "...but it always will just be arguing."

"I'm sorry, Firey. This isn't going to work out."
She threw a stick at me but it disintegrated to ash. "Fine...have it be this way."
I didn't want to leave her but I had no choice. Both of us were being stubborn. She was right, it isn't going to work out.
I decided to let it be and walked back home.
———————————————————
Leafy's POV: I felt a sigh of relief flood upon me when he left. I appreciate his concern, I really do. I'm just not ready to start anew yet. If I'm being honest...I don't remember how I ended up at his house in the first place. All I remember was that I was climbing a tree and I think I fell.
How did he find me?
My head started to ache in pain again as I tried to get an image in my head.
"Forget it...it's no use." I was about to climb down from the tree until I sensed something was wrong.
Oh no. It's wolves.

Chapter 7: To Gain A Friend.

Summary:

Vicious wolves attack Leafy, leading her to a regretful decision.
But maybe that regret created a friend.

- SLIGHT BLOOD WARNING!!

Leafy grabbed tightly onto a tree branch as the pack of wolves summoned below her. She couldn't help but tremble in fear. This had happened to her before but only with a singular wolf. Now that there were multiple, she feared she wouldn't be able to escape uninjured. "What do you want from me?!? I'm as hungry as you are!" It was true that even after eating fifteen of Firey's pancakes, she suffered from brutal hunger pains.
The wolves' ear-piercing howls filled the land. Leafy had about ten knives to use for survival. She had wasted the rest of them on her frustration fits of rage.
"Just go away! I don't want to hurt you!"
Leafy may have changed but her love for animals still remained. Ever since she was a kid, she enjoyed playing with bugs and going to zoos.
One of the wolves started to scratch aggressively at the bottom of the tree.
Unluckily, this tree wasn't very tall or sturdy so Leafy had to act fast.
She grabbed a stick and tossed it as far and she could. The wolf packs' attention went to the stick as they got ready to chase it. Leafy quickly jumped down onto a lower branch and then bounced off that branch to reach the ground.
She had no time to waste. She ran through several bushes and trees, hoping she would be able to outrun the wolves.
The pack distinctly heard Leafy running through the bushes in fear.
She ran 2 miles until she grew tired. The wolves could catch up with her any moment from now.
"I can't...keep running." Leafy proceeds to pull out a knife. She had no other choice but to defend herself and her land. "I'm done playing games...WHERE ARE YOU?!"
Suddenly, the wolves proceeded to come out one by one.
The wolves and Leafy exchanged growls and snarls until she lost it. She cried out, "WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS-!"
Her wielded knife pierced through one of the wolf's legs. The wolf let out a loud yelp of horror. The wolf limped its way towards Leafy until it fell. The rest of the pack grew vicious.
"This was a mistake..." She proceeded to flex her claws and sharp set of teeth in hopes they would fear her.
The second knife darts out of her hand and hits the front wolf in the neck.
A loud wolf cry echoed in the silence. Blood was streaming down the wolf's neck as it fell harshly to the ground.
In a flash, a wolf jumped out from behind Leafy.
The wolf pinned Leafy to the ground as she struggled to pull herself back up. "I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY!!"
The wolf struck her left arm, drawing blood. Leafy groaned as her arm began to feel numb. "Ow...ow ow." She shivered in fear as she stuck her knife through the wolfs' side and made her escape. She held her left arm as it bled streams of cherry red blood.
There were now two dying wolves and one wolf in pain.
And then there was Leafy and three uninjured wolves left. "I'm already injured...when will you give up?" The three wolves inched closer to Leafy with aggressive snarls of hatred. She had done the same thing back but with more force. "I see how it is..."
Leafy charged at the three wolves with her one useful arm and waved her knife in the air.
The three wolves ended up losing to Leafy after a strenuous fight. One was stabbed in the chest and the others tried biting her metal but instead ended up hurting themselves.

She observed her surroundings as she saw puddles of blood below her feet and blood stains on her hands. "W-What have I done..." She felt sick to her stomach and grew weary. The cries of the one awake wolf interrupted her disbelief.
Leafy walks up the wolf and pats its head.
"Hey...I'm sorry I got too crazy for a bit."
The wolf whimpered.
"I regret doing this...I regret everything."
She sat down next to the wolf and checked its wounded leg. "I can fix this."
Leafy treated the wound with sap from a local pine tree. She revealed a smile when the wolf stopped whining. "Feeling a little better, buddy?"
The pets she gave to the wolf comforted her while she waited out the numbing pain in her left arm. The sap was not easing her as much as she thought it would.

The sky darkened as the sun fully set. Leafy looked up at the sets of glistening stars as the healing wolf laid quietly in her lap.
"Thanks for forgiving me."
The wolf replied with a gentle lick.
"Most things don't work out for me...but now that I have company, I feel more at home."
The crickets broke the silence with their chirps as the wolf and Leafy sat under a large tree.
"Do you think I'm a bad person?"
The wolf rubbed his head against Leafy's leg.
"I think I am..."
She looked into the wolf's deep blue eyes and widened her smile. "What should I call you?"
"I GOT IT!! How about Apollo?"
Apollo raised up his head in delight and licked Leafy's cheek continuously.
"HAHA, STOP!! IT TICKLES!!"
——————————————————-
As the night went on Leafy's arm got worse. She couldn't even wiggle a finger if she tried. Apollo stayed by her side to provide her with an arm rest. Her hands were still stained with blood as she laid awake staring at the luminous night sky.
Her eyes slowly closed shut as she drifted off to sleep. Apollo laid off to the side and rested quietly.

Leafy had finally gained a new friend.

Chapter 8: Healing With Despair.

Leafy's POV: My mind was in a state of slumber as I lay next to the thin, fluffy wolf. My peace was suddenly shattered by another nightmare. Except, this one was different....

I walked towards a giant building with graffiti covering up the sides. My heart began to drop as I inched closer to the front door. I had been sent here by a distorted messenger who looked quite familiar. My bruised hands brushed up against the rusted door handle as I proceeded to turn it.

Behind the door was a hidden room with an old piano, unlit fireplace, and ripped-up couches. "Who are you...and what do you want!"

A shadow arose from the empty fireplace.

"..."

"You again..."

It was the red glow from all my other nightmares, awaiting my arrival one more.

"What is it now?! I'm not afraid of you anymore!"

The red glow approached me swiftly and grasped my throat with her bare hands.

"Not scared...are we now?"

She looked at me as if she was about to harm me when all of a sudden, she let out an ear-piercing scream of horror.

"I feel...a disturbance in the peace."

She stepped away in fear of being hurt by me. "What has changed...?"

I decided to open my mouth once more. "You're right. What has changed?"

The red glowing figure looked down at her hand to see it disintegrating into nothing. "I'M FADING...!" The evil creature cried out terror as she stared down at what was now nothing.

I stood up without any hesitation. "You are no longer part of me. You were just a nightmare all along!"

She held my hand as she faded away to nothingness. "Healing is a process, my dear. And you have begun that journey. Don't...go back."

The monster was gone. I was in shock at what had happened but felt a heavy weight lifted off my shoulders. "I'm- healing?"

The nightmare turned into an everlonging dream. I remained asleep until it was time to wake up.

I woke up to Apollo whimpering

"Apollo! What's wrong?" Then I remembered what I did to his leg.

"Oh! I'll get you more sap, okay?"

As I got up my arm felt worse than before. It was inflamed and untouchable. I tried to wiggle my fingers again but it didn't work. I looked down at it to see it had turned a purple-blue color. My arm had been heavily bruised with dry stains of remaining blood.

I shook it off and got Apollo and I some sap.

Apollo's whimpers soothed as I rubbed his wounded leg. "It'll be okay, buddy. I promise."

As I rubbed his wound, my stomach rumbled like thunder. I felt lightheaded from the lack of water and food I've consumed recently.

Apollo had read me by the expression on my face. He quickly got up and picked Yoyleberries with his teeth. He dropped as many as he could hold into my right hand.

"Thanks, little buddy." I rewarded him with belly rubs and Yoyleberries.

"We should try to find something to drink."

He slowly got up and waited for my attention.

"I'm coming, don't worry!" My legs were wobbly from dehydration.

Apollo and I walked until I had to rest.

"I'm not feeling too hot-"

I lay on the warm ground, holding my left arm close. "You can...go on without me, Apollo."

He cocked his head to the side and limped closer towards me. He could tell I was about to pass out.

Apollo yelped out cries until I showed a sign that I was still awake. *HOWLLLLL*

He ran as quickly as he could to find water even though he was injured.

I felt so dizzy that I couldn't even see clearly in front of me. My vision blurred as I tried to remain awake.

"A-Apollo..."

——————————————————

Firey's POV: Another morning, another regret. I can't get our argument out of my head. I just want to share forgiveness with her...she was my best friend after all. I awaited her return but I knew it wouldn't happen unless I came to her first, which she didn't want. Her exact words were: "This isn't going to work out."

Thinking back on it, she's right.

She was all screwed up when I talked to her. I didn't even get a chance to ask her how she ended up like that...was this all my fault?

I should get out of bed and go visit her again.

No, I shouldn't, she doesn't want that.

But I want it.

If I keep visiting her, others will find out.

"I should bring her more food," I thought.

That's what I will do.

Time skip

I repeated the steps I took two days ago. The same comforting sun shining down onto my face, the bright blue sky filled with the chirps of birds, and the leaves on the trees growing vivid shades of green.

The trees reminded me of the old Leafy. When she was a beautiful green color and brought me wonderful memories about the world of nature.

Why did she have to be so foolish...why did I not let her in?

I shook it off and continued my stroll. This time I was bringing her a bottle of water and a turkey and cheese sandwich (I can't have the water anyway). It was more towards lunch time so I figured a sandwich would be best for her.

I walked longer than usual. Still no sign of Leafy

I was about to give up until I heard the whimpers of an animal. "Is it injured?" I thought to myself.

I ran towards the sound of the whimpers to make eye contact with a frantic wolf.

"Woah! Hey...uh I'm not here to hurt you." (Don't kill me please)

The wolf came as close as it could to me so it didn't get burned.

"What's wrong?"

I looked down at its leg to see it was wounded and covered in some sort of sap.

"Oh! I can wrap that up for y-"

*SNATCH!* The wolf had grabbed the water bottle and sandwich out of my hand.

"HEY!! THAT'S FOR MY FR- SOMEONE!!"

The wolf limped while running towards something by a large pine tree.

"Huh?"

I ran after the wolf to find a passed-out wounded metal Leaf leaning on a tree.

"OH MY YOYLE-!"

"LEAFY!! LEAFY WAKE UP!!" I shook her vigorously but she didn't wake up.

"Please..."

The wolf laid out the water bottle and sandwich in front of her.

It licked her face for comfort and concern.

I noticed her wounded arm was infected.

"She needs to go to a doctor. Before her infection gets worse."

The wolf howled in agreement.

I luckily had brought my phone with me so I dialed up an ambulance as quickly as possible.

I cannot lie, my heart was pounding with extreme fear. I was very worried about her.

Chapter 9: Hospital Visit.

Firey's concern had led to Leafy's rescue. The paramedic had found him frantically trying to wake her up while holding back tears.
The ambulance rushed to the hospital.
That morning, many things happened.

Firey's POV: I was waiting impatiently at the hospital. "What has brought me to this point?" I thought to myself.
Everything spun around me as butterflies filled my stomach. "I hope she's okay..."
She and that wolf were on my mind constantly as I sat here in disbelief. I had fed the wolf and wrapped the wolf's leg before I got here. I felt horrible leaving the wolf alone but what was I supposed to do? Bring it into the hospital?! (I would've if I could...)
The sound of footsteps grew louder as the nurse approached the room
I looked up and saw Tennis Ball staring blankly at me.
"Uhh...Mr. Firey, it's your turn to visit Mrs. Leafy." He waited for me to get up and walk with him to the correct room.
"So...Leafy, huh?"
"It's a REALLY long story."
He let out a ridiculous laugh. "And I know half of it!"
"A lot has happened, TB."
"That's NURSE Tennis Ball, sir!"
I playfully shoved him. "Alright, NURSE."
He cleared his throat and became more serious. "She's awake, just a bit confused."
I let out a sigh of relief. "So she's going to be okay, right?"
Before he opened the door, he stood in silence. "I think so."
Think...? What more could possibly be wrong?
"I'll speak with her."
As the door creaked open I spotted Leafy laying as stiff as a board.
"I will give you guys a few minutes until the doctor comes in." He smiled at me and briskly walked away.
I slowly stepped forward towards the hospital bed.
"Leafy...?"
Her bruised hand tightly grabbed mine, causing me to blush. She looked unlike herself. She was drained and exhausted.
"Thank you for- *cough* coming, Firey."
The light from my flame reflected off her scuffed metal. As she lay down, she glared up at me with glistening eyes. My concern for her grew stronger. "How are you feeling?"
She sighed then spoke softly. "Not like myself, but I'll pull through it." She paused to take a sip from the water cup next to her. "Apparently they have a cure for the metal effect on my skin..? I hope that's true!" She giggled under her breath.
I flashed a smile for her. "That would be great!!
"IT WOULD, WOULDN'T IT?" She rose up out of excitement. "Ow...ow..." Her arm was still swollen, and her expression revealed her pain. "It's okay... it's okay. They said they will perform surgery on my arm..."
My eyes widened. "Wait- you have to get a surgical procedure done?!"
"If I don't, I could possibly lose my arm."
A loud knock suddenly filled the room.
Leafy called out a welcoming, "Come in!"
The doctor was nobody but Golf Ball herself, the bossiest but smartest ball of them all.
"So...you two are on good terms now, huh?"
Leafy and I side-eyed each other.
She looked down and shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know..."
After everything I did for her, she still doesn't want to talk to me?
I felt a bit hurt so I became firm. "Let's just move on from this, please."
Golf Ball rolled her eyes and adjusted her glasses. She began to inspect Leafy closely.
"Are we still doing that surgery today, Mrs. Leafy?"
Her expression revealed her true fear. "Sure...I'd rather do that than potentially lose my arm."
Golf Ball cleared her throat. "Very well, then."
"We will conduct the surgery in about twenty minutes. Give us a bit to prepare the operating room."
Leafy shook her head in agreement. "Thanks, Dr. Golf Ball!"
She narrowed her eyes at Leafy. "Mhm."
Golf Ball was about to exit the room until she turned back around towards me. "Oh and you only have ten more minutes with her. So hurry up."
The door had shut once more and I sat in silence, waiting for Leafy to say something.
Silence
"I...don't know if I'm ready still."
I glanced at her in distress. "I respect your decision..."
Am I really that big of a jerk?
"I appreciate everything you've done for me, really."
I blushed out of pleasure and brightened my smile. "It's no problem. I couldn't leave you like that!"
Her eyes drifted away from mine as she looked down at herself. "This might be the last time you see me as metal."
"And? Are you implying that you DON'T want your beautiful vivid green color back?!"
Shit...I said that out loud.
She looked back at me all flustered. "Y-You think it was beautiful?"
It was true. I used to like Leafy until...everything that happened.
"NO NO NO- I MEAN- it was...uh- nice!"
She cocked her head. "Uh huh."
Let me change the topic. "Anyways, since we have five more minutes left together I'd just like to wish you luck on your surgery!"
Leafy had completely ignored what I said and held her left arm in pain. "Is Apollo okay?"
My light dimmed in uncertainty. "Who?"
"Oh my pet wolf!!"
"What happened during the time I was gone.?!?"
She started hysterically laughing at that comment. "I fought a bunch of wolves and gained a friend in the process!! Simple."
Wow...she fought wolves by herself?!
"I didn't know you were hardcore like that!!"
"I'm not. Why do you think I'm injured?"
So that's why her arm was like that!!
"That makes- SO much more sense."
I cleared my throat. "But, yes. Apollo is alright. I fed him and wrapped up his injured leg while you were out. He is outside in the area by my house."
Leafy sighed in relief. "Thank you for protecting him."
Our conversation was quickly interrupted as we had both lost track of time.
Tennis Ball had flung the door open. "I'm so sorry Firey but you've got to make your departure out the front please."
"Good luck, Leafy!" I walked out of the room and went straight to the front desk.

A grumpy Fries tiredly asked, "Can I help you?"
"Heya, Fries!! I'm just here to sign out."
"Oh uh yeah sure, whatever."
I messily wrote my signature and headed out the door towards home.

Leafy's POV: The operation was going to begin any moment now. Although, I wish I was already out of here. Golf Ball and Tennis Ball have been hinting at Firey and I's drama all day and it's driving me nuts!! At this point, being back in Yoyleland might be the better option.
Actually, no. Laying on a bed felt so unnatural yet so comforting. The feeling of the soft, rounded pillow brought back memories from when I didn't have to use a tree or the ground to rest my head.
Speaking of feeling unnatural, I'm surprised that I was accepted into this place. Didn't they all want to kill me?! Didn't they want me DEAD as much as I wanted them dead?! Wasn't I the monster?
I snapped back to reality as the bossy toned Golf Ball spoke to me. "It's time, Ms. Leafy."

Chapter 10: The Waiting Game.

Firey's POV: The day grew longer as I uncomfortably walked to my house. "Will she be alright?"
I stressed myself out over the thought of what was untrue. I knew she would be alright but my mind told me otherwise. In all honesty, I was falling back in love with her more and more by the second.
As I arrived, I spotted Apollo laying on the overgrown grass. "I'm back!!"
Apollo opened one eye and instantly sprung himself up from the ground when he realized it was me. He limped as he approached me and nuzzled my hand.
The colors of his fur mesmerized me as I stared at him. Each shade of gray had reminded me of the gray-cloudy nights from a few springs ago when it constantly rained heavily. I had to say indoors for the most part, but I had remembered one thing: Leafy's love for the rain. Whenever it rained, she'd dance in the puddles and happily open her arms wide. I miss those days. Just watching her from the window put a smile on my face.
Apollo cocked his head in confusion and spun in a circle. He seemed to be missing Leafy too.
"She's coming back, buddy. Don't you worry."
He had let out a quiet cry and plopped himself back onto the ground.
"Let me get you some food."
I successfully managed to feed Apollo cold cuts from the fridge.
He wagged his tail with joy as he devoured each piece of meat. I can tell that he hadn't eaten much in a while.
The peaceful atmosphere was interrupted by the sound of my phone ringing.
Who could possibly be calling me?
It was Gelatin. I hadn't spoken to him since... that night. I've just been so stressed out that I haven't talked to anyone in days.
I picked up the call to an enthusiastic Gelatin speaking loudly.
"YO!! FIREBOY, IT'S BEEN...ABOUT A WEEK!!"
Has it really been that long already?
"Ack! I would've called you sooner if I didn't lose track of the days, haha."
"So...about that body."
I paused and thought about what to say. I didn't want to slip out any information that could be spread around, even though I truly do trust Gelatin.
"I've sorted it all out already. They weren't actually dead, just passed out."
The sorting it all out part was a complete lie. I, in fact, have not sorted it all out yet.
"Oh, that's great news!! I couldn't imagine what would have happened if it were an actual dead person..."
What would have happened? If she was actually dead...
"Haha, yeah! Imagine that..."
"Anyways, did you find out anything about the person?"
Quite a lot.
"Not really- they were pretty scared and confused. I tried to comfort them, but they were a bit- crazy."
Gelatin had stopped speaking for a few seconds.
"So Leafy basically ended up losing her marbles in Yoyleland, huh."
My eyes widened in extreme fear. What should I say? What should I do? HOW DOES HE KNOW THIS?
I took a deep breath. "Gelatin...who are you talking about?"
He let out a soft giggle. "OOPS THAT SLIPPED OUT IM SORRY, FIREBOY-!"
Who told him about this!? Nobody even knows what I've been going through!
I hung up out of panic. My chest felt heavy and my hands were trembling.
What's everyone going to think of me?!
My flame grew taller and larger as I breathed heavily. Apollo had inched closer and rubbed up against my leg to comfort me. I softly patted his head. "No wonder why Leafy loves you."
He let out a joyful howl when I spoke those loving words. His presence calmed my spark down, and I suddenly felt better.
"It'll all be okay, Apollo. I know it will be."

Hours passed as I waited inside for a call from the hospital while Apollo laid on the porch. Leafy may not want to see me, but I want to see her.
RRRRIIINNNNGGGG
"Finally, some news!"
I picked up my phone in a hurry and answered. "Hello?"
"Hello, this is Dr. Golf Ball speaking. The surgery was successful, and she should be able to leave the hospital by tomorrow morning."
Stress lifted off my shoulders. I replied, "Thank you for following up, when can I come to see her?"
Golf Ball cleared her throat and spoke. "You can come whenever you like, you just can't stay with her overnight."
Without hesitation I got up and ran out the door. "I'm on my way now!" I hung up and ran my way down the street.
"I'll be back, Apollo!"

Leafy's POV after the surgery: I open my eyes.
Where am I....ughh.
I looked down at myself and saw my arm stitched up and bruised. "I guess it was successful, haha." I tried to wiggle my fingers
, but it still was stiff.
Golf Ball stood by my hospital bed. "Your surgery went well even after all the struggles it took to get you asleep."
I blushed out of embarrassment. "Oops..."
She narrowed her eyes at me in disgust. "Here, eat this." A bright yellow tomato sat in my hand. "May I kindly ask why?"
"It's to get rid of the effects the Yoyleberries left behind."
I widened my eyes with excitement as I took a bite of the flavorless yellow fruit. "It could have a better taste..."
Suddenly, I felt a heavy weight lift off my body as I changed back to my normal self.
The scratched up metal that covered my skin like an eggshell had disappeared in an instant. I felt sluggish as a washed-out green covered my body.
Disbelief filled my mind as I stared down at myself. I may have changed back, but parts of my old self were still missing.
"I'm...not a vivid green anymore."
Golf Ball shook her head in denial. "It will take a while for your original color to come back. Since you lacked multiple supplements for a proper diet, your green faded."
I was about to reply, but she interrupted me with more of her smart words.
"You passed out from dehydration and low blood sugar. Living on just Yoyleberries can have long-lasting negative effects."
For some reason I snapped. I knew the berries had obvious terrible effects on my body, but I had NO other choice.
I clenched my teeth. "I'm aware but guess what? I had NOWHERE else to go. I really WONDER why I couldn't!"
Golf Ball remained silent. "You'll be able to leave by tomorrow. Nurse Tennis Ball will check back up on you later." She quickly left the room and left me to fend for myself.
She didn't want to talk about what happened because she knows that she's out for me.
I shouldn't have snapped, but I couldn't help it. I'm ashamed of how I look and act...I'm ashamed of what I did. I'm ashamed of everything.
I'm aware that I've gone mad, and I can't help it.
———————————————————
As I lay uselessly after my surgery, a familiar light appears from under the dark brown door.
"Firey..?" I can't lie, I didn't feel like seeing him.
The door flung open and a teary eyed flame ran towards my bed. He held back his tears of joy "YOU'RE...YOU!" He gripped my gentle hand and shook it vigorously. "Ah! You're going to be a new leaf when you get out of here!!"
I jerked a smile. His enthusiasm made me feel good inside but my mind rejected his kindness. "I'm just a washed-out leaf, what's so special about that?"
Firey smile faded. "You'll become yourself again. It takes time, effort, and self care."
Maybe I did want to see him.
"Since when did you become wise? I knew you as the playful and stupid type!" I let out a little laugh and gripped his hand tighter.
"Why do you worry about me so much? After all the times I rejected your presence..."
He cleared his throat as his light brightened. "I just care about you, that's all!" His light continued to grow brighter and brighter.
"Hey, are you okay?" I asked.
He panicked and took a deep breath. "I'M FINE!!"
My face expressed my confusion as I changed the topic. "Anyways, I'll be out by tomorrow!!"
His flame dimmed down and he started to act more like himself. "Oh, yeah!! Golf Ball told me on the phone!"
To be honest, I wanted to leave today. I wanted to go back to roaming in the trees and bushes with no worry about what others thought of me.

The dim lights in this place made it feel like a prison. I miss the warm shine of the sun covering my face as I lay in the long grass. Being with Firey made me feel safe, but I'm also not used to someone else's presence.
Maybe being alone wasn't so bad after all.

Chapter 11: The Stay.

After many struggles, Leafy was finally out of the hospital by afternoon. Her arm felt better, but it still needed to recover. In the current state she's in, she struggles to find herself. "What is my purpose..."

The doctors had given her a supply of yellow tomatoes for whenever she ate a Yoyleberry out of starvation. They also recommended that she should get food from a local grocery store or a friend nearby before she passes out again from a lack of proper nutrition.

She had passed out before but NEVER for that long at a time.

Leafy's POV: As I walked towards Firey's townhouse, I felt ill. Since I ate actual food at the hospital, my stomach wasn't used to such.

Firey was walking with me step by step, reassuring me that I was okay. "Now that you're back in shape, you can experience the great outdoors again!!" He smiled and started skipping happily along the sidewalk.

"It'll be great! You can stay with me until you get a place to stay and-"

I interrupted him. "You don't...have to do this just because you feel bad, Firey."

"What, no! I'm doing this because you're my friend, and I care about you."

My heart fluttered. Did he really mean that? "I may not show that I care, but I do, Firey. I'm just- confused right now."

I looked up and realized we were at Firey's place, the same place where I had flipped out and run away.

Haha...this place brings back FUN memories!

He kindly opened the door and let me walk in first. I stepped inside as a wild Apollo tackled me. "APOLLO!" I cried out. An instant spark of happiness arose as I rubbed his belly softly. For a moment, my feeling of illness had vanished. As I looked down at Apollo, I saw that his leg was finally healing from Firey's help.

"How could I thank you enough, Firey?"

I turned and looked at him as he still stood in the doorway. I grabbed his hand and patted it gently out of gratitude.

The flame's face lit up with blush as I held onto his hand once more. "It's no problem, Leafy!"

I let go of his hand and pushed Apollo a bit to get him to go fully inside.

He had inspected and sniffed me multiple times since I was no longer metal but an off-green. "It's me, buddy! I promise..." He licked my fingers with delight as he realized it was me.

Firey had let out a few giggles as he saw Apollo and I happily play around with each other. But I noticed deep bags under his eyes, and he proceeded to sit down on his couch, pondering.

I whispered to Apollo, "Just one second, buddy..."

I sat down as close as I could to him. "H-Hey, are you doing alright?" I wasn't very good with my words of encouragement. I used to be, but it's been a while.

He huffed as he placed his arms at his side. "Don't worry about me...you should be worrying about yourself." He paused to catch his breath. "You've been through SO much these past few years, and all I did was forget to think about you."

I narrowed my eyes. "Firey! I'm doing fine now because of YOU! If you hadn't come to check up on me, I would've died!"

"..."

"Now tell me, what's bothering you?"

"..."

I let out a long sigh. "Look, if you don't want to talk about your feelings, that's fine with me. I've...been there and done that. Just please, don't stress yourself out over me. I'm going to be alright, got that?"

Firey held back his tears and spoke softly to me. "I wish I could do something to make you happy again..."

"That part I have to change, Firey. You can't do that for me."

Time passed. The clock had struck 5:00 PM.

Firey screamed out from the kitchen, "Dinner!!!"

I widened my eyes as Apollo and I got up from the couch. "You made us dinner?!"

He chuckled to himself. "Of course I did! What, was I going to make you starve?!"

I was quite surprised by his efforts to fix up a dinner. "I guess I should uh...sit down now, huh." I awkwardly sat myself in the hard, metal fold-out chair as I waited to be served (I think that's how this works, right?)

Firey had placed a large plate of spaghetti and meatballs and a drink of water in front of me. Each piece of pasta was calling my name as I waited for him to sit. "Oh uh thank you, Firey." He gave me the thumbs up as he placed a bowl full of leftover meatball meat by Apollo's water dish. Apollo yelped out in joy as he dug his head into the bowl of meat.

"Haha, I'm glad you like it!!"

Firey has finally served himself and sat down across from me. I sat impatiently, waiting to take a bite of my meal. I watched him as he took his first bite.

"What are you waiting for, Leafy? Eat up!!"

My eyes widened with hunger as I looked back down at the plate. I picked up my fork and tried to scoop the spaghetti, but it fell off. I got frustrated and tried once again by stabbing at it, but it fell off again.

My stomach rumbled as I struggled to pick up a singular piece of pasta.

"Hey, uhh, Leafy!! Try to twist the fork; that way, the spaghetti can wrap around it and stay in place."

I looked up at him to see him smiling at me. "Uhh...okay." I can't lie; I was quite embarrassed at myself.

I twisted my fork, and the spaghetti successfully stayed in its place. I took my first bite of heaven and continued to eat more. "This is amazing, Firey!" I said as I chewed with my mouth open.

He seemed not to mind my terrible table manners. Instead, he chuckled and took in my compliments. "I'm glad you like it!"

As I went to use my napkin, I saw something shiny, sharp, and pointed on top of it.

It was a knife. The temptation to throw it somewhere or stab something built up inside of me as I held it in my hand.

*STAB!*

Firey quit taking bites of his pasta and became full of fear. "Is everything alright? Haha..."

I must've looked so dumb with a knife stuck in my meatball. I cackled loudly as I took the knife out and stabbed the meatball over and over again, sauce flying all over my face.

Firey looked at the knife as I stabbed the meatball with it. "Maybe that was my fault for giving that to you."

I realized what I was doing and instantly stopped. I cleared my throat as I used my napkin to rub the sauce off my face. "I'm- sorry about that." I awkwardly looked down and continued to eat my meal with my bare hands as I had become sick of using the fork. I finished within seconds using my hands; my mouth was full of the brim, and Firey was almost finished.

He noticed that I was done with the amount of sauce on my hands. "Would you like more?"

I shook my head no and growled as my mouth was filled with spaghetti.

"Alright, then. If you want to wash your hands, the sink is in the kitchen. Just don't get any water on me, haha!"

I nodded and got up to wash my hands. The temperature of the warm water soothed my blistered hands. "Firey, don't you wish you could feel the water?"

He finished up his last meatball and swallowed. "Eh, sometimes."

Wait, if he can't touch the water, why does he have a sink?

"Why do you have a sink then?"

"For guests, of course!! What, am I going to make them not wash their hands for me? Hell no!"

I chuckled and began to thank the fire boy for making me such a meal. "Hey, uh, thanks for dinner."

He flexed his teeth and grabbed my warm hand. "Anytime, Leafy."

Apollo yipped and spun in circles out of gratitude for Firey.

——————————————————

Firey's POV: I began to set up Leafy's room as she laid down on the couch watching tv (she had no clue what was going on).

Every few minutes, she'd ask me another question about the television, which I found to be pretty cute.

"Hey, Firey!! Do you know how to change the channel? This show is really boring me to death."

Says the one who's been trapped in Yoyleland for years...HOW could a TV bore her?

I shouted from her room, "Just click the guide button, and a list of channels should pop up!"

"Ohh", she stated in fascination.

As I set up her bed in the guest room, I thought about my day.

I was stressed, full of anxiety, and overwhelmed, but these factors seemed to have faded when I spoke with her. I truly had feelings for her even after...what happened at dinner. She's not herself YET, but I see possible improvement coming around the corner. She's already been using more words than growls towards me, and she seems to show more care.

My thoughts were interrupted by another one of Leafy's questions. "What's your favorite channel, Firey?"

"The sports ones", I replied.

"Hmm...I don't know if I'd be interested in that sort of stuff anymore, but I'll try!!"

She used to love listening to me talk about my favorite Yoyleball teams, now I doubt she'll remember what it's about.

I suddenly remembered Gelatin by the mention of Yoyleball. I was still worrying about how he knew Leafy.

Leafy suddenly waltzed into the room and hung out by the door. "I'm bored. Want to play catch the knife?"

I paused in my tracks. "Catch the...knife?"

She flashed her sharp teeth, trying to smile nicely but failing. "I can show you how to play if you-"

"I think I'm good, Leafy. I'm pretty tired. Maybe tomorrow?"

She laid her head on the doorway out of sadness. "Aww, okay..."

I interrupted her need for pity to tell her where she would stay for the night. "You'll be staying in here tonight. Apollo will sleep on the porch, and I'll sleep in my room. Deal?"

She shook her head and jumped for joy as she held onto the arm that had been operated on. "Wow! You didn't have to do all this for me...I could've just slept on the couch."

Is she nuts? I mean- yeah, she is. She had just asked me to play "catch the knife."

"I wouldn't let you just sleep on my couch, Leafy. I want you to feel welcomed back and not disregarded."

She ignored my statement and plopped herself face-first onto the bed I had just made, ruining the sheets. "I'll be resting now, thank you very much."

She joyfully wrapped herself in the blankets I left her and watched my light leave the room.

"Have a good night, Firey!"

I blushed as I watched her cute face snuggle into the blankets. "You too, Leafy."

I closed the door tightly and walked my way towards Apollo, who was sleeping silently on the floor. "You know what? You can stay here tonight. Just- don't wreck my furniture or bother Leafy and I. Deal?"

Apollo opened one eye and let out a quiet yelp. "I love you, Apollo. Have a good night."

——————————————————-

Leafy and Firey lay fast asleep in their separate rooms until all of a sudden, the sleep paralysis began to creep around both their minds.

Leafy's nightmare- The pain spread throughout both my arms as I sat under a large lemon tree. "These lemons...they remind me of my childhood."

Suddenly, the sky turned a deep black, and the lemons fell off the trees. "Why is the tree dying?" Tears flooded my eyes as I watched

the tree's vivid colors fade to nothingness.

A red light flashed around me as pain spread throughout my arms to my chest. "I thought you were gone for good..."

The evil creature had become a clear image instead of a red fog. "There's still time to leave this place, you know..."

I stopped in my tracks and held my arms tight to my chest. "I'm not leaving him again!"

I broke out into a moment of despair and agony as the creature continued to taunt me. "JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!" I took out a knife and began to stab at the unphased red creature appearing in front of my very eyes.

"You say you've changed, but continue to defend yourself by harming others...hm."

I dropped the knife and fell to my knees. "What...?" The evil creature was right. I had many flaws within my personality. "Why did you come back?"

She grinned and faded away as my world turned a dark red.

"Next time, we'll see if there's still evil left in you."

———————————————————-

I woke up and held my chest as my heart pounded in fear. "It was just another nightmare. It wasn't real. I'm still here, safe and sound." My vision became blurry, and it was hard to control my breaths. "Don't do this to me now..."

——————————————————-

Firey's sleep paralysis demon- I open my eyes to a dark abyss swirling around my room. "I'm just hallucinating..." I thought to myself. A dark shadow appeared in front of my eyes, inching closer by the second. The shadow grew taller and skinnier as it moved around my room. I tried to flee in fear, but my body refused to cooperate.

The shadow spoke no words, but its looks were enough to terrify me. My chest ached as my breaths were taken away within moments of waking up.

In a few minutes, my body began to relax as I gained back my ability to move. The shadow was gone, relieving my fear.

"Sleep paralysis demon came back...huh."

I held my chest as my heart raced with quick sparks of tension. "It's over, Firey... it's okay now."

I laid my head down and stared at the ceiling. Scenarios of Leafy and I being together danced around in my mind as I eyed the gray colored ceiling.

"What am I thinking..." my mind spiraled.

I went to close my eyes until I heard the sounds of someone hyperventilating.

"Leafy?!"

———————————————————

Still Firey's POV!!:

I flung my bedroom door open and sprinted towards Leafy's. As I opened the door, I spotted her sitting up while holding her hand to her chest.

I closed the door behind me and sat at the edge of her bed. "Leafy! Are you okay?"

She didn't respond with words, but she nodded in disagreement.

Her eyes squinted shut as she tried to relax her breaths.

"I'm here...it's okay." I grabbed her hand and rubbed her back gently to calm her down.

She expressed worry on her face as she made eye contact with me. Suddenly, her breath calmed and became less rapid. "It's almost over, Leafy."

Leafy huffed and puffed as she nodded in agreement.

Words flowed out like a river once she recovered. "I'm okay...I'm okay." She paused before speaking again. "I'm sorry for stressing you out again. I promise I won't let this happen-"

I interrupted her apology with a harsh slap of her hand. "Leafy! Don't you DARE apologize for having a panic attack!"

"I'm always causing you worry, Firey. Maybe I should step outside for a bit...I'm feeling isolated."

I got up and blocked the doorway. "You are not leaving my side again, Leafy. Running away isn't going to solve anything."

Her face turned into an angry expression as she forcefully grasped my arm. "Oh, but it does! I can't live normally anymore!! Anywhere I go, I struggle to adapt! If I can't handle YOUR house, then why should I even try anymore?!"

"Leafy..."

"Just let me go."

"I just- want to talk. Please."

She smacked her lips. "What, Firey? What could you possibly need to know that's so important? Are you going to go tell your new friends about this later?"

My light dimmed in sadness. "What?!? No! I understand what just happened, Leafy. I, unfortunately, know what it's like to have a panic attack. It's not fun, but it happens. I'm aware of how you just felt, and you shouldn't be embarrassed about that. I'm more than happy to calm you down because I care about you. Okay?"

She let go of my arm. "I'm sorry for being so unappreciative, Firey. I need to start seeing that what you do for me is only for good reasons. I'm just- bipolar." She flashed her sharp, rigid teeth as she smiled. "Thank you...for being there for me."

Leafy's smile faded, and she directed her eyes to the floor, speaking softly. "So, you struggle with panic attacks too...?"

"Only when stressed or if my sleep paralysis acts up, haha."

Her lemon scent filled the room as she began to trail back and forth nervously around her room. "Mine are caused by my nightmares."

"Your...nightmares?"

She nodded her head in agreement. "I see a version of myself that I don't want to become. It continues to haunt me after years of taunting me. All I see is a red fog...I don't know what it wants from me! I thought the creature disappeared, but it wants more!"

Leafy stopped pacing around the room and plopped herself onto the bed. "I'm not in the right mindset to discuss this right now."

I silenced myself and placed the covers gently over her. "Hey, tomorrow's another day. Just try to forget what happened, okay? Feel safe because I'm with you."

"You're the best, Firey."

Her beautiful eyes began to close slowly as my warm light shined onto her face.

"I love you, Leafy..."

But she had already fallen back asleep.

Chapter 12: Figured Out.

The sun shone through the curtains as Leafy opened her eyes. The new day felt like a new start.

She rolled out of bed and opened up the windowsill. "Today's going to be good. I can feel it."

Leafy's POV:

I opened up the door and walked to Firey's room, slightly knocking on the door. "Are you up?" I said softly. No answer. I guess he's still asleep.

I made my way towards the living room, where Apollo slept. As I walked, the familiar scent of pancakes filled the air.

"Leafy! You're finally awake!"

My eyes widened with surprise. "You're already making breakfast?!"

He let out a friendly chuckle as I watched him flip each pancake. "Of course! I wouldn't want you to be hungry."

I gently smiled, not showing my teeth this time. I appreciated his kind gestures, I did.

As he made breakfast, I played with the ever-so-hyper Apollo. His blue eyes sparkled with energy as he circled me. "Who's a good boy?" Apollo yipped excitedly as I patted his soft, grey fur.

Firey turned off the stovetop and hollered, "Breakfast is ready!"

Apollo's claws scratched the floor tiles as he eagerly ran towards his food bowl. Firey had given him leftover meatball meat from dinner, which made Apollo happy.

I sat down to a plate of six fluffy pancakes in front of me. I licked my lips with delight as Firey placed a cup of syrup next to me.

He quickly sat down across from me and grabbed his fork. "I hope you enjoy them as much as last time, haha!"

My eyes sparkled with joy as I ripped through the fluffy pancake with my sharp teeth. "I don't know how you make them so good!" I hollered with my mouth full.

Firey smiled and continued to eat his food as I grabbed each pancake with my bare hands and chewed through each one loudly. Before I knew it, I was finished with my meal.

I lay back in the chair and rubbed my stomach with my scratched-up hands.

"Would you like any more pancakes?"

"Uhh...yes, please!"

He got up from his chair and served me more pancakes, the smell growing stronger as he brought them out. "Thank you, Firey."

It felt great to eat food that wasn't a Yoyleberry for once. The sugary taste of each pancake satisfied my appetite. Within seconds, I had finished another stack with my bare hands. "Eugh...I ate too much."

Firey chuckled through the bites of his fifth pancake. He swallowed and continued to talk. "Well, glad to see you enjoyed them!"

He finished his breakfast and cleaned off the table while I struggled on the couch.

"Firey, I'm sorry to ask you another favor, but could you hand me my medicine, please?"

"Sure!" he said with pleasure.

He walked over to me and handed me my medicine. The medication soothed my roughed-up arm and provided relaxation.

"Is your arm bothering you again?"

"Maybe-" I clasped onto my arm as it lit up in pain. "I'll be fine..."

As I sat lazily on the soft, cushioned couch, Firey opened the living room curtains, and the sun struck my face with warmth. "It's so nice out today!" The urge to run outside and climb the trees filled my mind as I gazed upon the beautiful sky with sparkles in my eyes.

"Did you want to go outside? It's nice out and-"

I lifted myself off the couch, forgetting my pain, and sprinted out the door with delight. "I can feel the sun better than ever before!" My green brightened up from the sunshine as I briskly walked around the yard. "I feel so...alive!" A genuine smile grew on my face as I looked at every source of nature.

Firey leaped out the door into the yard and made eye contact with me. He gave a soft, gentle expression on his bright, flustered face. "You're happy today, haha!"

"Of course I am, silly! I can FEEL everything around me lifting my spirits!"

Firey twisted the weeds in the dirt with his fingers as he watched me embrace the sun.

His eyes glistened with a deep love and joy. "You're so h- *clears throat* It's so hot out here, right? Haha!"

I nodded in disagreement. "I've been in worse heat... and cold." The terrors of Yoyleland's harsh winters flashed a picture in my mind. The sun's comforting rays disappeared as I pondered back on my past.

"Hey...Leafy? Hello?!" I was brought back to reality as Firey snapped his fingers in my face. "AH-! Sorry."

"I'm just making sure you're okay. You looked scared for a moment there."

I shook off my fears and acted like it never happened. "Stop treating me so well, Firey. I can fend for myself sometimes."

He backed up and shrugged. "Alrighty then- sorry."

"Can I- have some alone time? With Apollo..? If you don't mind."

His joyful expression faded. "Oh- sure thing, Leafy!"

Firey opened the door for Apollo. Apollo excitedly sprinted around the yard in laps as Firey went inside.

I felt bad for pushing him away again. I really shouldn't be doing that, but I am. I just am so used to being alone that it doesn't feel right being with someone.

"Apollo!" I called out.

Apollo sprinted towards me and leaped onto my body. His wet licks comforted my sorrow. "What's up, buddy?"

He got off of me and started digging, kicking dirt into my face. I couldn't help but burst into laughter. "Apollo!!! Stop, you're getting dirt all over me, haha!!"

As he rapidly kicked the dirt, he found worms squirming around, wanting to be buried in peace. He grasped each worm with his sharp wolf teeth and flung them in different directions.

"Apollo!! Don't mess with nature D:<"

He whimpered and dropped three worms out of his mouth. "You know what- this sounds weird, but I'm going to take you on a stroll. Come on!"

Apollo yipped in delight and followed me out the gate. "I'm sure Firey won't mind that we are gone, it'll only be for a little while anyway."

I skipped along the lush grass and went out the gate as Apollo followed.

We walked around the block, and I realized I forgot to close the gate. "Eh- whatever."

———————————————————-

Firey's POV!: I don't understand why she always pushes me away. I do everything I can for her, but she still is so-so stubborn! What am I doing wrong?!?

I paced around the house, pondering my decisions and reflecting on what I've done for her. "What's missing...?"

I started huffing and puffing out of anger as I paced around my house. My flame grew in size with each breath I took, making me feel ashamed. "I need to calm down...she's still figuring it all out...I need to trust her."

I looked down at the tiled floor, my hands trembling. " I love her too much to let this go. I need patience."

*RINGGGGG* "Huh-?" My heart dropped when I realized it was Gelatin. "Uh oh...I hope he isn't mad at me for hanging up on him."

I answer after letting it ring for a few seconds. "Hey..?"

"Look- I'm sorry for making you panic last call. This time I won't even mention it!"

"Gelatin...who knows about this?"

Gelatin cleared his throat. "Most..."

My heart raced. "How? When? Why?!"

"Hey! I said I wasn't going to make you panic this time- you need to chill Fire-bro! Trust me, I gotcha covered!"

"It's not that I don't trust you!! It's the fact that SOMEHOW people know about this!"

"Well- from what I heard, you visited her in the hospital quite a bit..."

"THEY KNOW ABOUT THAT?!"

"Fireboy...of course they do. It's a public hospital."

"..."

"Besides, isn't the nurse Tennis Ball and the doctor Golf Ball?!?"

"I'm screwed, man! Nobody is going to want to talk to me after everything !!"

"Calm down!! Just because everyone hates Leafy doesn't mean they'll hate you for talking to her!! Right...?"

But I love her.

"You don't know the whole story, huh?"

"Nope!"

"She stole Dream Island from me! That's why I never bring it up!" My eyes became watery.

"And you FORGAVE her?! Wow, Firey- you are some gentleman. If I were you, I'd be holding that grudge forever!"

"She's changed, Gelatin- she forgave me, so why should I forgive her?"

"She still stole an island from you..." He mumbled under his breath.

"Let's just not discuss this. Okay? I have to go anyway."

He was right. She DID steal an island from me. Come to think of it, she hasn't even MENTIONED or apologized for doing that to me!

"Oh- okay! I hope we can hang out soon!"

"I'll arrange something! I'll talk to you soon."

"See ya!"

I hung up the phone and sighed. "I'm going to have to talk to her about that eventually...just not now."

I suddenly remembered that she was still outside with Apollo. "I should check up on her..."

No, Firey! She doesn't want you to!!

"I'll just take a peek outside. That can't hurt, right?"

The sun shone brighter onto my face as I crept towards the glass back door. I peeked outside to spot nothing but the lush green grass. "L-Leafy?!?"

I opened the door in a panic, frantically pacing around the yard. "LEAFY!" I cried out. "APOLLO!!" A rush of fear filled me. Where could they have gone?!? At the corner of my eye, I spotted the gate wide open. "Oh no..."

———————————————————

Back to Leafy's POV!!:

Apollo and I ambulated through the streets, each corner greeting us with beautiful spring blossoms. Apollo was surprisingly good without a leash and stayed by my side. "You're such a good boy for a wolf!" I exclaimed.

Apollo yipped and rubbed his head against my leg. "When we return to Firey's, I'm feeding you well." He excitedly jumped up and stuck his tongue out.

I looked up at the street signs to see that I didn't recognize any of them. "I- don't know where we are, Apollo..."

Apollo choked his head and continued to walk on without me as I stood still, scratching my head at the street sign. "Why did I do this..."

My eyes darted to Apollo, who was already halfway down the next block. "APOLLO!"

I panicked and started to chase after him. He figured I was playing around with him, so he began to run away as fast as a lightning bolt.

"COME BACK, PLEASE!" I cried. My arm was struck with pain as I sprinted eagerly for Apollo.

He stopped in his tracks to turn around and look at my sweat-drenched face. "AWOO!"

I almost caught up to him, but had to catch my breath. I couldn't risk a heat stroke or passing out. "Apollo, boy! Come here...!" He half limped and half ran towards me as I sat on the dirty ground. "Phew...man, you sure have become faster!"

I was glad to see that he was gaining more mobility in his leg again, but at the same time, I NEVER want to have to chase him like that again. "Bad boy! Don't ever run away from me again!" My eyes glistened with tears as I dug my head into the side of his chest, his fluff covering my eyes. "I was afraid you'd run away forever."

Apollo made quiet noises and remained calm when he realized I was upset.

I lifted my head and rubbed his head softly. "Let's try to get home...okay?"

My body lifted from the ground, and I continued to stroll around the blocks to find a route. "If I can make my way around Yoyleland, I can make my way around here!"

Then, a sudden strike of worry hit me.

We had made our way into the town. Everybody I once knew surrounded the shops and streets, laughing and smiling at each other. The sounds of familiar voices filled the streets around me. "M-Maybe I should turn around before-"

"Leafy?!?"

Crap.

I turn around to see a copper coin smiling brightly at me. "Is that really you?!"

He stood towards my old alliance member, Pin. Her body glistened with a vivid shade of red as she narrowed her eyes at me.

I had forgotten how to speak. My body had become as still as a statue. "Hey...?"

I started to sweat heavily as my heart raced. I know they all want me gone.

"I didn't know you would show up around here today! Lots have heard of your return and-"

Coiny was interrupted by Pin's sudden nudges.

He cleared his throat. "It's nice to see you again! Are you...doing alright?"

Apollo growled quietly at Coiny and Pin since they were unfamiliar to him. "I'm...fine, I guess." I avoided making eye contact with Pin. I know she still had beef with me and was waiting for her boyfriend to stop talking to me.

"Is that a...wolf? That's cool!"

I was confused about why Coiny casually talked to me as if I had done nothing wrong.

"w-why are you being nice to me-?"

He rubbed the back of his head. "Why would I be rude towards you, haha!"

Pin finally decided to open her mouth and speak with me. "You need something?"

I backed up a step from Pin. "N-No! I didn't mean to come here, I-"

"I'd be careful showing yourself around here, Leafy. You're not liked around here anymore."

I let out a snarl. "You don't think I KNOW that, Pin?! It's not like you guys chased me into a forest or anything!" I fumed with rage. Why would she say that?! Doesn't she know that I'm aware?!

I raised my voice. "I was there for YEARS and nobody even came to check on me!" Apollo gently brushed up against me to help control my emotions. "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to yell."

Pin looked regretful about her previous words. "Look, I understand your frustration, but you need to know that others aren't just going to forgive you. If you keep running away, none of this will improve!" Do you want this to continue, or not?!"

She's right. I don't know how to deal with my past, so I continue to hide. I can't deal with the stress of this anymore!

Does anybody realize that I'm struggling to change?

"I don't know how to solve this situation... what I did was shameful."

Coiny pushed Pin aside and spoke gentle words of encouragement. "Hey, if you can see what you did was wrong, others can see that too! You have to find the right approach to the situation."

I expressed a soft smile on my face. "Thanks, Coiny." I tapped Apollo on the head to indicate that we were leaving.

"I'm going to get back home now. Before it's

too late to find where I'm going."

"Exactly, where are you going? If you're lost, maybe we could give you some directions," Pin confidently stated.

My chest grew heavy. "Uhh.." I started to blush. "You know what, I've got this myself, guys. Thanks for the help anyway."

Before they could get a word out, I sprinted with Apollo down the block.

——————————————————-

Pin shook her head. "There she goes! Running off once again!"

"I have a feeling she'll be back. She seemed overwhelmed, and I don't blame her."

Pin let out a sudden chuckle. "So we're going to agree that she's going to Firey's, right?"

Coiny let out a chuckle. "Oh- most definitely! We all know he's been hiding ever since he was seen in the hospital with her!"

"Do you think they like each other?" Pin joked.

"Are you kidding me? Of course they do! They're just too embarrassed to admit it!"

"Well...I'm not embarrassed to admit I like you." She began to blush and held out her hand for Coiny to hold.

"Feeling lovable today, huh? That's it. I'm taking you out to eat."

Pin's smile brightened as he gripped her soft hands. "Oh my gosh, Coiny stop!! You took me out last night!"

"So what?! Let me treat my future wife!" He walked with her down the street to the nearest restaurant.

——————————————————-

My experience was extremely overwhelming. I felt like I had to push on a smile as I spoke to them. Being isolated from your peers for a few years takes some social skills off of you, and it was hitting me like crazy. "I'm sorry if I seem stressed, Apollo..."

His beautiful blue eyes stared at my face. "Thank you for comforting me."

The sky dimmed as dark clouds covered the bright sun. Drops of water fell onto my gentle head from the clouds above me. "Rain!"

I had a passion for the rainy weather. Each drop of water comforted my dehydrated leaf-like skin as I tried to find my way around. "This street looks familiar, Apollo! Come on!"

Earlier....

Firey's POV: The streets grew longer as I searched for the green leaf I called my friend. "LEAFY! APOLLO! WHERE ARE YOU?" Only the chirps of birds responded to my cries. Where could they have gone?!?

Why would she leave?! I hope nobody noticed her, she'd be terrified!

"Calm down, Firey. She HAS to be near. She wouldn't have gone back to Yoyleland, right?"

I was alone while searching vigorously for her. Each route brought me further away from finding her. "She couldn't have gone into the town...right?"

ACK! THIS WAS SO INFURIATING!!

I became more determined to get her back home. "It won't hurt to go into the town, I haven't been there in a while anyway."

I felt sick to my stomach as I worriedly walked the streets. "How long has she been gone?!" STUPID, STUPID, STUPID!! WHY DIDN'T I CHECK UP ON HER SOONER?!?

My world suddenly grew dim. The sun was no longer shining as brightly as before, and the grass was no longer lush but dry and shriveled.

"Keep searching, Firey."

I walked endless paths to reach the town, filled with those I hadn't spoken to in a while.

I was greeted with stares as my flame flashed through the town with a source of light.

"Firey!! Over here!!"

I turn my head toward the familiar voice and see Needle waving her arms up, indicating she wants me to come over to her. I hope she doesn't know about my current situation.

"Hey, Needle!" I exclaimed while walking closer to her. "How's everything going?"

"Ah, you know. The usual, I guess." She cleared her throat. "What brings you here? You haven't been visiting very often!"

I disconnected my eye contact with her to look at the ground. "Just having a casual stroll, that's all!"

"A casual stroll? Really?"

Sweat dripped down my forehead. "What's the problem with that?"

Needle placed her hands at her hips. "Just seems a little suspicious, that's all. I'm not the one to judge, so I won't question it."

Thank yoyle. "I haven't been here in so long...I miss everyone so much. I'm even starting to miss Coiny!"

Needle let out a small chuckle. "Man, Coiny has been ALL OVER Pin recently! They are an amazing couple, I'm so happy for them!"

Couple, huh? I wish I had that...

"O-Oh, yeah!! He's texted me about that a few times, I'm glad to see them happy together!"

"Me too. It was destined to happen, I mean, look at how they treated each other throughout the competitions!"

I expressed a soft smile. "Yep."

Needle examined my face with a distressed expression. "Hey, Firey, I'm not trying to sound rude here, but are you...sleeping well?"

I opened my eyes more to make it seem like I was wide awake. "Yeah!! You know me, always sleeping like a baby- haha."

"You sure? Those bags under your eyes don't look like it."

She was right. I haven't been sleeping well recently. "I'm fine! Okay?"

"If you say so-!"

Throughout my conversation with Needle, I searched around with my eyes to see if I spotted a distressed Leafy.

"You want to come into the shop with me? I was just about to pick up new slippers and wouldn't mind some company!"

I stopped searching and made eye contact with her. "That's alright, Needle! I need to run some errands, but I'd be glad to hang out with you another time!"

She sensed my sudden panic. "Oh- alrighty then! I'll see you soon?"

I put up a thumbs up and stormed off.

Needle was worried about Firey. She knew he wasn't sleeping well or caring for himself. "I hope he's alright...he doesn't look like himself."

The town was too crowded for me. I felt overwhelmed as I made my way out of there. I spotted a clear green color near the front of the town square.

Gelatin's here...?!

"FIREBOY!!" He ran up to me and jumped with joy. "You haven't been here in ages! Everything okay?"

Why haven't I been here in so long? I definitely should be visiting more often! "I'm alright."

"Gee, you look exhausted!"

Do I look that bad? I've had two of my friends comment about that. "What?! Pfft- I'm not even tired!"

He narrowed his eyes on me. "Anyways, now that you're here, we should hang out!!"

"I would love to Gelatin, but I'm having an existential crisis at the moment-"

Gelatin grabbed my hand and looked me dead in the eyes. "What do you need, Fireboy?" At this point, I trusted him more than anybody else right now.

I leaned as close as I could to him and whispered into his ear, "Leafy's missing."

His eyes widened with fear. He may not have a good view of her based on my description, but he knows I care deeply about her.

"Let me help you find her."

Chapter 13: Scars Can Heal Slowly.

Gelatin and Firey searched the empty streets for the lost green leaf. They knew she'd be around here somewhere, but not exactly where.

Firey's POV: I lapped each block with the lime colored Gelatin following my tracks.

"Fireboy, are you sure she's around here?"

I grunted. "I'm POSITIVE!" That positivity disappeared with each step, but I ignored that part.

"Maybe we should- you know, check somewhere else...?"

I paused. "No! She's around here, I KNOW it!!" My hidden sadness can't hold back anymore, and sudden tears start flowing like a river, unable to stop.

Gelatin, struggling to comfort me, came over and held onto my hand. "Calm down, Firey! You're going to extinguish yourself!"

Each teardrop left a painful sting. I couldn't stop, but I wanted to.

My mouth became dry, unable to choose what words to mutter.

"ow- ow...shit!"

"Your flame is shrinking, Firey!"

He panicked and tried to keep me on track. "We will find her!! You said it yourself, she must be around here somewhere!"

My tears calmed down, my flame growing a significant size. "You're right...I need to stop. I need to get back on track. She won't be found any sooner if I keep crying like this." I pushed Gelatin's hand away and thumped towards the next street.

Gelatin was shocked by my sudden display of emotion. He has never seen me cry before, so he wasn't familiar with how to comfort me properly.

He halted as he saw a vast forest filled with luscious apple trees, each apple growing a dark, crimson red.

"Knowing that your friend is a leaf, do you think she'd want to hide in there?"

I paused and quickly turned back. "Gelatin, this is EXACTLY where she'd want to be!!"

Then, I paused. "I can't go in there, though...I don't want to risk causing a forest fire."

"I can be brave and...*gulp* check it out myself."

My eyes lit up in joy like my flame. "Are you sure?"

"I'm willing to do whatever it takes to find her for you, Firey!" He confidently marched his way into the forest like he had done this before.

With each step, his foot sank into the muddy, wet dirt beneath his feet. The forest filled the air with an earthy aroma, making Gelatin's hidden fear feel a sense of comfort. "This place isn't as scary as I thought it would be!"

The dirt left behind his footprints as he slowly inched his way down the path. "LEAFY!!", he shouted. "That's your name...right?"

He gulped. "Uh, Fireboy would like you to come back home!"

The sunshine began to fade as a group of dark clouds covered the sky. "Aw, don't rain on me now!"

Instant drops of rain sprinkled over the forest, making it difficult to see his surroundings. "I'm just going to assume she's not in here and get back before I get lost too."

Still Firey's POV:

I patiently waited for Gelatin's return until a sudden change of weather forced me to flee. The rain was one thing I couldn't afford to risk myself for, as I would begin to slowly extinguish into nothing once it dropped heavily from the sky.

I sprinted to the nearest tree, making sure not to get too close to it, and hid under the large bark branches. Rain still sprinkled onto my head, causing a moment of pain, but it was nothing too extreme.

"Ack! The world wants me to feel pain today, doesn't it?"

I looked at the tree in awe, forgetting the raindrops dripping onto my flame. Each leaf was a lush green with crystals of water droplets glistening on its smooth, textured skin. "It reminds me of her."

My heart soothed with a feeling of whimsical love and warmth. "I love you, Leafy," I whispered as I gazed fondly into the clouded sky.

This time, I didn't expect a response back.

Leafy's POV: The rain soothed my rough skin as I continued finding my way back home. Puddles of water drenched my feet as I walked each sidewalk in hopes of a familiar street sign.

Apollo let out a joyful yip as he ran towards the end of the road.

"This is where I need to go, Apollo!! I remember this street sign!" A sign of jubilation ruptured when I became familiar with my surroundings again.

On the streetside, I was surrounded by beautiful oak trees. Each one reminded me of the times I spent playing and hanging around trees as a kid.

Then, a sudden glimpse of an orange flame caught the corner of my eye. "F-Firey?"

He looked frightened but comforted at the same time as he stared endlessly at the tree shielding him from the rain. He snapped back to reality when he heard my voice. "LEAFY?!?" His face lit up like the sun shining through the clouds, and he waved me over.

Apollo and I stepped on every twig and puddle to reach him. "FIREY!! GET OUT OF THE RAIN!!" I yelled loudly. I expressed a wild sense of concern as I noticed him become more sluggish.

"I'll be fine!" His eyes met mine as he gripped my hand tightly, his warmth drying the rain off my face. "Don't you EVER run away like that again-!"

I ignored his comment and rushed to cover him with my arms as much as I could. "At least you're under a tree," I said through my heavy breaths of relief.

The palms of my hands burned terribly from being so close to his flame, but I wanted to do what I could to protect him from any drops of rain. "I didn't mean to run away, Firey. I wanted to take Apollo on a walk, but I ended up getting lost!" Guilt filled my stomach. Why did I ever think that was a good idea?

Firey smiled brightly. "I'm just happy you're back."

——————————————————

Gelatin made his way out of the forest. He directed his head left and right in search of Firey.

"Uhh-Fireboy? I'm back from the scary woods!"

Silence.

"Firey...?"

His eyes darted around the street in search of the ignited flame of rich orange light. "Great! Now I'm panicking!"

Firey had been around the corner, but Gelatin still began to feel alarmed.

"Oh my collagen-! I lost him!!"

Leafy shielded Firey from the rain, he spotted a panicked Gelatin frantically looking around.

"Gelatin!!," he shouted. "Over here!"

Leafy's expression dropped. A-Another friend of...Firey's?

She had never interacted with Gelatin before. She didn't even know who he was!

Gelatin glanced over his shoulder to find Leafy and Firey hiding away under a large tree. "FIREY!!!" He spread his arms out wide and sprinted through the shower of rain, which was slowing down now.

"Get out of the rain, you dope!" His laughter echoed through the empty streets.

"I'm so sorry for leaving, Gelatin! I had to find some coverage for when the rain came down."

He laughed once more. "Fireboy...you could have just hid in the forest near me!"

Leafy was confused by the nickname.

"Fireboy...?"

"There were too many trees close together!! I didn't want to burn any of them. This tree right here is just fine and isn't too close to another tree."

Gelatin slapped his knee as he chuckled away his breath. "Alrighty, Nature-boy!"

"W-WHAT?!?"

Leafy accidentally slipped out a chuckle. "I do respect your thoughtfulness towards the trees, though."

Firey blushed out of embarrassment. "Why wouldn't I respect the trees?"

Everyone expressed a moment of laughter as the rain suddenly began to stop.

"That was quite a shower!" Gelatin exclaimed.

Firey had finally got up from the spot under the tree, the bark behind him being slightly burnt even though he was distanced, and the grass beneath him dry as dust.

"Thank you for protecting me, guys."

Leafy smiled as I shook out her aching, blistered hands. "Mhm!"

Gelatin winked. "No problem!!"

They began to walk back to Firey's house.

"Who's this little guy?" Gelatin asked.

Leafy shyly looked down at the wet ground. "That's my pet wolf, Apollo. He acts just like a dog!"

Firey brightly smiled. "He's a good boy, that's for sure!"

"I've never seen someone train a wolf like this!! How did you find him?"

Her mind flashed with images of her stabbing each wolf like a reckless animal. "I can't recall."

Gelatin glanced at Leafy's tightly bandaged arm wound. "Is your arm okay?"

Leafy was getting frustrated with all these questions about things she didn't want to mention. "I'm fine!" She was becoming better at lying.

Firey shook his head at Gelatin, letting him know not to ask such questions.

Leafy had appreciated his indication towards Gelatin. All she wanted was to walk home in peace.

Leafy's POV: The long walk back continued as Gelatin continued to talk.

"So...uh, Leafster! Yeah, I'm going to call you that. Anything you want me to know about you?"

He wants an introduction now? What's with these horrible nicknames?

"No.", I said bluntly.

"Oh. Alright then!"

What would I even say about myself? That I stole an island, got chased away, and ended up becoming a lunatic?

"I can tell you a bunch of things about her, Gelatin!"

Oh no. Why is he doing this to me now...no, no, NO!

"She's smart, funny, sweet, pretty, and loves nature!"

Smart? Funny? Sweet? P-Pretty?!? HE THINKS I'M PRETTY?!

"P-Pretty...?" My face turned a rosy red. Apollo was howling loudly.

Firey widened his eyes with fear. "I-I didn't mean it like that!!!"

"Oh- so I'm ugly? Thanks, Firey."

He dropped his head, frowning. "I don't think you are ugly, Leafy."

So he does think I'm pretty. Well...you know what? I think he's pretty handsome. Would I ever tell him that to his face, though? Nope!

Gelatin giggled. "Ooo, is this the couple's first fight?!"

Firey and I stopped in our tracks, Apollo following our move and stopping too.

"W-WHAT?!" We shouted in unison.

"Come on!! It's so obvious you guys like each other! Just confess it already-and kiss or whatever."

Firey tugged on Gelatin's arm. "Not funny, Gelatin!"

I became embarrassed. I wanted to run away back to Yoyleland, but I wouldn't do that to him. To be honest, I wasn't a fan of Gelatin already. I don't know how Firey can put up with this guy.

"I'm not a fan of your comments, Gelatin."

He rolled his eyes. "Chill, Leafster! It's just a joke!"

He placed his hand over my shoulder, causing me to whack it. "Don't even try to rest your hand on me!"

"Leafy, everything alright?" Firey saw me growing more frustrated by the second.

"I'm fine! I'm totally fine! Yeah!"

I saw Firey side-eye Gelatin with annoyance, causing him to stop cracking immature jokes.

We finally made it back to the house. A sense of relief came over me as I stepped foot onto the doorstep.

Firey sighed with relief. "I'm glad we made it back here!"

Gelatin grinned. "I'm happy I could help you find her!"

Help...find me?

"Anyways, I have to head back home, but it was nice meeting you, Leafster!"

Was it nice meeting me? I doubt it.

"Uhm...you too."

He waved goodbye to Firey, who was waiting to regain the strength of his flame.

Firey waved back and opened up the door for us.

I plopped myself right onto the couch, my eyes closing from exhaustion. Apollo spun around and plopped onto the floor next to the couch, shutting his eyes.

"Nothing to say?"

I peeked open my left eye and rose from the couch. "What?"

"Don't you want something to eat? You've been lost all day and-"

"I'm good." My head and hands ached as I rested still on the couch.

"Did you at least think the streets were pretty?"

I narrowed my eyes at his ridiculous question. "Sure, Firey. They were great."

I can't lie, the streets were pretty since it was spring, but I didn't want to ever hear the word "streets" ever again.

He kneeled by the couch, coming close to my inexpressive face. "Are your hands okay?"

Both hands were shiny and red, and scorched with a sting as he gently examined each one. "Leafy! These are bad burns!"

I shook my head in denial. "Just let it heal. I'll be fine."

Apollo got up and sniffed my hands. He backed away in fright when he saw what a smoldering red they were.

"You always say you're fine when you aren't! When will you EVER learn not to be so stubborn?! You can't keep running away from your problems!"

Now he's saying this. Great.

"You sound like Coiny right now. You know that, right?"

Firey opened his mouth to speak and closed it right back up when he heard me mention Coiny.

"Did you just mention Coiny? How do I-"

"I talked to him today, Firey."

The light from his flame dimmed. "YOU WENT INTO TOWN?!? WHO SAW YOU?"

He became a nervous wreck, and each of his hands trembled as he kneeled on the floor.

Why is this such a big deal? I went into town, so what? I didn't mean to, anyway!

"Why is that such an issue?!?" My anger issues were arising. The urge to throw something at him built up inside me, causing me to irritably shake.

He refused to respond to my question, making me emotional.

"Are you embarrassed by me?"

His pupils grew smaller as his eyes widened. "N-No! I just wanted you to be more careful!"

"Mhm, sure. I'm just SOOO clumsy, aren't I? Always getting into situations I can't handle and being around people I should have DISTANCED myself from years ago!"

The words spilled out of my mouth like an overflowing bathtub. The more that spilled, the more I regretted it.

"Y-You want to be...distanced away from me?"

Embarrassed, I ran into the room Firey set up for me and slammed the door shut. My heart pounded like a drum as I locked the door.

Everything always becomes a problem for me. Why can't I be normal like everyone else?

I relentlessly banged my head on the door, aching my forehead.

A sudden bright light shone from under the door, creating a sense of warmth at my feet.

"Leafy, I'm not mad at you. Please just open the door."

I can't.

"I'm not feeling too hot, Firey. Just let me relax here for a bit."

I was feeling sluggish, but nothing too serious. I had a long day and was tired.

"If you open the door, maybe I could help you feel...better?"

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" I screamed. In a sudden moment, the changes I have gone through faded away. I felt like a rabid animal feasting on Yoyleberries again.

"I MAKE EVERYTHING A PROBLEM. I DON'T NEED HELP BECAUSE I'LL ALWAYS END UP DISREGARDING THE ADVICE!! WHY? I'M STUBBORN!"

I breathed heavily out of my mouth, unable to control myself and my thoughts.

I blared out everything that should have stayed inside.

"Why did Coiny never question my arm? Why did they both act so clueless about my situation? They were THERE when I was driven away from everything I ever cared about!"

I paced the room back and forth, having an existential crisis.

Firey let out a quiet gasp.

I fumed with frustration. I began to punch the wall, my hands becoming even weaker and bruised than before.

Firey's concern grew like the size of his flame. "LEAFY, I'M SORRY, OKAY? PLEASE CALM YOURSELF DOWN BEFORE-"

A blustering knock filled the room.

I sank to the floor, my hand throbbing in pain. Due to my anger, I had punched a massive hole in the wall.

"What was that?"

"..."

"Leafy...what was that?"

I felt like I had been punched in the gut, just like how I punched the wall. I grew weary of the thought of my mistake. "I'm- I'm so sorry."

Out of shame, I unlocked the door and hid in a corner under a blanket.

He began to knock again. "I heard you unlock it. Can I come in?"

I didn't respond and waited for his choice.

Firey's POV: Her emotions were indescribable. She grew tired, upset, and frustrated all at once. I didn't know what to do to help her, but I wanted to. Even if I was a bit nervous, knowing that others had found out about her being here.

It's not the fact that I don't want her here, because that's completely untrue. It's the fact that I am worried about what others will think of me now.

"I'm coming in. Okay?"

All I heard were timid pouts coming from the room. When I walked in, I spotted her in the corner, covering herself with a white, fluffy blanket. The blanket she had on herself made her look like a fluffy bunny, which perked a little smile on my face.

"Leafy...?"

She sniffled. "I don't know what got into me. You were just looking out for me. The truth is...I'm not very skilled at taking care of myself anymore. So when you assist me, it encourages me, but it also brings me down from time to time."

I sat down near her. "It's okay to need help, Leafy. I'm honestly so proud of you for all you've accomplished, even if it's little things. You've been through a lot."

She wiped her tears with her blanket. "Have I...?"

She still needs improvement, but she's on a great path.

"You have! You just don't see it because you let the little things get to you."

I paused and spoke again. "I didn't mean to jump down your throat earlier. I'm just...insecure about what others will think about us being friends again."

She perked her head up from under the blanket. "Insecure...? You're insecure?"

I blushed out of embarrassment. "Uhh, sometimes!"

She fully turned around, her injuries calling out to me more. "You have nothing to be insecure about. If anyone even bothers us, I'll attack them." She let out a mischievous giggle, flexing a grin on her face.

I gently smiled at her adorable face. "Alright, Leafy. I trust you."

With all of our arguments, this one felt somewhat different. She put out her hand for me to hold, instead of me putting it out for her.

I squeezed her hand tightly as we both sat still on the floor.

"Sorry about your wall."

Oh, right. The wall.

I glared at it shockingly. I had no idea she could punch that hard. The hole wouldn't be too hard to fix, so I didn't mind.

"Hey, this moment matters more than that right now."

Leafy's cheeks became a rosy red. "It sure does."

The room became darker, the starry night shining through the window.

This moment felt unlike any other I had with her. Our sadness dissolved into nothingness as we stared at one another, mesmerized.

"Can I- talk to you...outside?" I felt myself slipping. I wanted to confess to her.

She'd shown a sense of confusion. "O-Oh, surely!" Leafy quickly lifted herself off the ground, shoving the fluffy blanket onto the floor, and trailed behind me until we went outside.

Apollo was up and about from all of our arguing, roaming the house freely.

"Come outside, buddy!" Leafy hollered out with joy.

He energetically ran out the back door and ran laps around the yard.

I began to laugh. "Someone's energetic tonight!!"

Leafy suddenly grabbed my hand, trailing me to the middle of the lawn, and sat us down on the grass. "Look up."

A celestial lantern brightened the dark sky above us, making the setting calming and inviting. Each star created a luminous aura as the sounds of crickets filled the night. My sudden fear of the night drifted away as I watched the void of darkness above me.

"It's...beautiful."

She brought her eyes into contact with mine. An orange ray of light covered her face as she inched closer to my glowing flame. "It used to calm me down every night..."

She just sat there watching stars...alone?

"That must've felt lonely, no?"

Her expression saddened. "Sometimes...but I knew things would change."

Hearing positive words from her made me smile. All I wanted was for her to heal herself from negativity, and it seems she's beginning to do that.

"I'm glad you're putting a positive spin on it, Leafy."

Leafy smiled big. "I'm trying!"

I let out a sigh. "L-Leafy?"

"What is it, Firey?"

I began to shake a bit, my nerves tingling inside me. "I have...a confession."

"A confession?" She let go of my hand and scratched her head nervously.

She avoided eye contact as her eyes darted to the grassy ground. "What kind of...confession?"

Okay. Deep breaths, Firey. You've got this.

"I...I'M IN LOVE WITH YOU, OKAY?!" I sighed heavily. "There. I said it."

She met my eyes once more. Her presence became the light in the dark, her green became more vivid, and her eyes glistened with beauty. "M-Me? You're in love with...me? Even after everything I've done-?"

I can't believe I just confessed. "I've always felt something for you, Leafy. This just felt like the right time to let it all out."

Her eyes twinkled with joy. "I JUST- WANNA HUG YOU RIGHT NOW!"

Leafy came too close and burned her cheek. "Ow! Sorry- I got carried away there."

"Oh my gosh! Are you okay?!"

She cutely giggled. "I'm fine! One little burn is nothing to me- just look at my hands!"

My chest grew heavy as I thought of all the pain she'd been through. How does she not care about burns? Don't they scar her skin?

Her blaring voice in the silent night interrupted my moment of concern. "So...when's our first date?"

My face glowed a bright red. "D-Date?!?"

"Haha! What? Did you think I'd say no, silly?"

She actually wants to...date me? I can't believe this is happening!

"We can plan one for this weekend!!" I said excitedly. "I'm so ecstatic right now!!"

"You're ecstatic?!? I'M ECSTATIC!! I would've never guessed that you would confess your love to me!"

She blew me a kiss. "I loved you, too, you know. I just never admitted it to you, mhm!"

I was shocked to find that out. "How did you hide it so well?"

"Firey! You know me! I'm just too good at bottling things up." She was historically laughing between words. "You would have never guessed if I didn't admit that to you just now."

I booped her on the nose. "Well, you would have never guessed if I didn't tell YOU!"

She narrowed her eyes. "You hinted at it a few times by accident. I just chose to ignore it."

"Oops..."

Leafy cleared her throat. "So you chose to have a crush on the most controversial girl in this town, huh? I applaud you for that. It shows that you do care about me."

"Oh, Leafy, you're not THAT controversial!"

"If you say so..."

I couldn't help but let my concern consume me again. "What are we going to do about your burns?"

"They are just scars, Firey! They'll slowly begin to heal until they get better."

Just like us.

Chapter 14: Catching Up.

Firey and Leafy had gone inside, and both headed to bed. Before they slept, they both kissed the top of each other's hands lovingly.

"Goodnight. I love you."

"Love you too!"

Leafy's POV: I woke up from my slumber unbothered. "I...didn't have any nightmares?" I questioned myself.

How could that possibly be? I haven't slept soundly in so long!

I began to jerk a smile as I thought about the gentle kiss Firey gave me on the top of my hand last night.

The thought of us dating felt weird to me. I wasn't exactly sure on how to act around him now. I didn't want to be too pushy but I also don't want to be too distant.

Just act casual, Leafy. You've got this.

I waltzed out of my room to be greeted with the smell of breakfast.

He's already cooking something for me? Aw.

"Good morning, Firey!" I said cheerfully.

His face became all flustered and red. "Oh! Up already?"

I went up to him and held his soft hands. "Whatcha making-?"

He seemed surprised by my affection. "Just some sausage and eggs. Would you like some?"

My stomach growled. I hadn't eaten anything since yesterday morning. "Yes, please! If that's okay with you."

He scoffed. "Why wouldn't I make breakfast for my girl?"

I awkwardly laughed. "Thanks, Firey."

I went and got myself a drink of water and placed myself down at the table, which was already set. I waited patiently for my food in hopes of being able to eat it normally this time. Come on, Leafy. This is your first meal while being together. Don't screw this up.

He gently placed a dish full of light, fluffy eggs and grilled breakfast sausage in front of my face.

"Apollo!" he called. "Come here, boy!"

Apollo sprinted to his bowl and was greeted by cut up sausages. His joyful yips expressed his appreciation and he dug his head into his bowl.

Firey finally sat himself down. "C'mon, whatcha waiting for? Eat up!"

My hunger made me instantly want to stuff it all in my face, but I resisted the temptation.

Okay, Leafy. You've got this. Just pick up the fork!

My hands unsteadily adjusted to gripping my fingers around the fork. I gently stabbed at each egg and put it in my mouth, holding back the urge to use my hands.

I hadn't been used to eating slowly, after all, I've only had a few meals like this.

"How is it?" he asked.

I looked up from my plate. "Good as always!"

I noticed that he looked quite nervous to talk with me. His face said it all.

"Are you...okay?"

He perked his head up. "Oh, yeah! Just a lot on my mind, ha."

"Well, like what? I'm here to comfort you if you need it."

"Nothing serious! I'm just getting used to us dating, you know?"

"So am I! So don't even worry about it."

He smiled and continued to chew on his sausage.

He eats so cutely.

My eating pace was speeding up as I got impatient. Before I knew it, my food had been all gone.

"Do you want any more to eat, love?"

L-Love?

"O-Oh, I'm good. Thank you."

What should I call him? Honey...?

"I'll clean off the table, honey."

He became flustered. "You sure?"

Without a response, I began to place my dishes carefully into the sink.

While I cleaned, I thought back to breakfast.

I actually...ate normally for once? Am I adapting back to my old ways or am I just lucky today?

I realized I had been zoning off into space while washing the dish. Oops. At least it's super clean now...

"Firey, how do you wash dishes?"

He looked up from his now finished plate. "I just put the water on really low. It takes me a bit to clean the dish, but I have no choice. After all, it's no big deal if it accidentally splashes on me a bit."

Firey got up from his chair and placed his dish on the counter. "I can clean the rest, sweetie."

Sweetie? Okay now this is getting a bit ridiculous.

Although, I kinda liked it.

"No, Firey. You made breakfast so let ME do something for once."

He rubbed my back with his soft palm slowly. "Okay, love."

As I washed each dish carefully, my arm began to tingle with pain. "I need to sit down for a second." I said weakly.

Firey's protective boyfriend instincts kicked in. He grabbed my medicine and handed it to me. "Are you alright?" he said, concerned.

His hand rested on my knee as I took the medicine. "I'm okay, thanks."

"Do you want water?"

"N-No, I'm fine!"

My arm stiffened with the feeling of pins and needles.

H-Here, let me just get you water-"

"NO! I'M FINE!" I had accidentally slapped his hand off my knee out of stress.

His face grew with sadness.

"I-I'm sorry, Firey."

His words expressed a sense of gentleness. "You're fine. Just rest, okay?"

It's not fine. "I have no right to yell at you for helping me. I'm just a bit overwhelmed right now."

His hand went back to its resting spot on my scarred knee. "It happens, Leafy."

The bright flame staring lovingly into my blank eyes warmed my heart. "Thanks for understanding, Firey."

Before he could say anything back, I arose from my seat and walked to the back door. I instantly opened it and walked out.

"Leafy, wait!"

"You can join if you'd like. I just need some fresh air."

He expressed shock on his face. "O-Oh! Sure thing!!"

He seemed surprised by my desire for him near me.

I waited for him to walk out so I could close the door, and we sat on the ground once again.

I looked up at the beautiful white fluffy clouds forming over the light blue sky as the sun beamed a golden glow upon the earth, creating a sense of comfort.

"Do you ever just...want to go back to somewhere you haven't been in years?"

Firey darted his eyes at the ground and back up at me. "Yeah...there's many times I wish I could just- go back and see everybody again."

"Don't you see everyone around here, though?"

He crossed his arms. "Not everyone...I've barely been able to even talk with half of them! Everyone is so tied into their own relationships and own lives now it's hard to make time to hang out."

He really should see his other friends. Come to think of it, I haven't seen him with anybody else but me for quite a while.

"H-Hey, did you want to go into town today? Just the two of us?"

The beam of light from the sun reflected the brightness of his expression. "R-Really? I don't want you to be uncomfortable or-"

"I'm fine, Firey. Please let me do this for you. You've done more than I could ever ask for."

He grabbed my hand and kissed the top of it. "Thank you-!"

——————————————————-

"Alright, Apollo. We are leaving so please don't get into any trouble while we are gone!"

Apollo spun in circles and yipped. "YIP!"

I stroked the top of his head until we left.

Each step I became more nervous. What if they find out we are dating? What if I get dirty looks? Ugh...why did I agree to this?

My thoughts were interrupted by Firey's loud mouth. "Ah!! Leafy, I'm so excited to see them!! I hope they aren't mad at me for leaving so suddenly last time..."

Last time? Is that why Gelatin was with him?

"Why did you leave? Wouldn't you want to hang out with-"

"It's nothing, Leafy."

I stopped in my tracks for a moment, pondering. "Alright..."

I continued walking and jumped over each sidewalk crack, Firey chuckling in the background.

"Don't step on the cracks, Firey! It's bad luck if you do!"

"Pfft- alright then." Firey and I jumped in unison, laughing the whole way through.

Time went by so fast. We didn't even notice we had made it to the town square.

"We're- here? Already?"

Firey's eyes widened. "I- guess so! Come on, Leafy! I'll hold your hand."

I felt butterflies fill my stomach. "What if something goes horribly wrong?" I thought. Memories of being alone in Yoyleland corrupted my mind.

"Hey, Leafy? Leafy? Sweetie?" He snapped his fingers in my face, clearing the fog filling my mind.

"I'm here! I'm here... hi." I rubbed my arm out of embarrassment.

"We don't- have to do this if you're not-"

"I'm fine! Please...just hold my hand and let's get this over with."

He gripped onto my scarred hands. "I'll be with you all the way through. Don't worry."

The warmth of his hands soothed my nerves, each second feeling less tense.

As we walked, the eyes of many familiar faces directed at me. "Why are they staring at us..." I whispered.

"It'll be fine, Leafy!"

A sudden call of my name was heard in the distance.

"Leafy? Is that you? With FIREY?!"

"C-Coiny?"

He sprinted over to us as Pin followed. "I knew you'd be back!"

"You- did?"

"Yeah! It's nice to see you again. I guess it's nice to see Firey too." He let out a chuckle and nudged Firey's shoulder.

"Coiny! I haven't seen you in so long I- I kinda missed you actually."

"Oh- well I missed you too. You still look easy to slap though."

Firey and Coiny exchanged laughs and slaps.

Pin had been standing next to me, admiring her boyfriend's laughter. "Didn't know you'd be back."

I let go of Firey's hand and became nervous. "W-What do you mean?"

"I don't know. I'm trying to trust you again, but it's becoming quite hard for me."

I controlled my temper. "That's okay, Pin. I get it-"

Her eyes lit up in shock. "Oh...okay."

Why was she so shocked-?

"How have you and Coiny been?"

"Pretty good. He's been taking me out a lot." She stared at him lovingly as he talked with Firey. "Are you interested in any relationships?"

I felt my cheeks get warm and flustered. "M-Me? Uh- not really..."

She silently chuckled to herself. "I can tell you're lying, Leafy."

I placed my hands stiffly at my side. "N-No!"

Firey noticed I was getting a bit uncomfortable and walked over to me. He gripped onto my hand to comfort me again. "Isn't it great she's back guys?!"

Pin suspiciously looked at the both of us. "Hand holding, huh?"

Firey and I side-eyed each other, thinking of what to say. "So? Am I not allowed to be close with my friend?" Firey had nothing else to say.

"Just a little suspicious that's all..."

Coiny kissed Pin on the cheek. "It's okay, Pin! They are just holding hands...I mean- it's not like we all know Firey likes her anyways!"

I felt an extreme warmth on my face. Firey's flame had been growing in size as he blushed heavily. "N-No!"

I couldn't help but giggle. "Alright, fine. Since he won't say it...I will."

Pin grinned. "Ah?"

"We're dating! There- I said it." It felt good to get off my chest. I feel like hiding it would have just added onto my nerves.

"CALLED IT!!" Pin and Coiny shouted in unison.

Firey mouthed the words, "why?" to me silently.

Did I do something wrong?

He shook it off and spoke. "We just started yesterday so don't think-"

"I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU FINALLY PULLED A GIRL!!" Coiny said jokingly.

Firey rolled his eyes. "Pfft- of course I did. What made you think I wouldn't?"

Pin was resting her head on top of Coiny. "Leave him alone wouldn't ya, Coiny? I'm actually quite impressed."

Firey let out a slight awkward chuckle, his hands becoming warmer as he held onto mine tightly. "It's actually quite nice having somebody around."

I blushed at the thought of knowing he enjoys my presence.

"Hey, Leafy?"

My heart sank. "What is it, Pin?"

"Would you like to go around town with me? Coiny and Firey can catch up while-"

"YES PLEASE."

My first time being asked to hang out in years! Ah!! Okay, Leafy- don't screw this up. You've got this.

Pin left Coiny's side and came closer to me. "Are you alright with this, Coiny?"

Coiny smiled, his teeth sparkling like his copper coating. "Of course I am! It's nice to see you finally warming up to her again. I remember your alliance and-"

Pin suddenly grew angry. "Okay- ENOUGH, Coiny!"

"Pin! Alliance, remember?"

I think she chose to forget that but I never did.

He cleared his throat. "I didn't mean to make you angry- I'm sorry, Pin."

Firey and I stood silently, confused.

"You did nothing wrong. It's fine...really."

She suddenly grabbed my hand and pulled me away from Firey's grasp. "Oh uh- have a good time with Coiny! I'll meet up with you later!"

"Alright! Love you!"

I wanted to say it back but Pin had already started talking.

"How's it feel being back here?"

I ignored her question. "Are you angry at Coiny?"

Her expression dropped as she let go of my hand. "I'm asking you a question first."

I kindly responded. "It's quite- a change. I'm just glad I have someone to help me through it all."

She frowned. "Look- I'm sorry for...ripping up the map."

She paused and thought back for a moment. "That day must have been scary for you. I mean- an entire mob of contestants wanting you killed?"

"Pin-"

"And I was a part of it all...I was the one up front." Pin had seemed regretful for once. Her face showed it.

"I-was never upset with you, Pin." My heartbeat matched the rhyme of my footsteps. "You couldn't do anything to control it. I did a foolish thing."

"You sure did."

Why did it have to go like this? If I had just waited and talked to him, my reputation would have been normal around here.

"I'm just glad Firey-"

She interrupted me. "Doesn't hate you? Yeah, me too. I'm glad he was able to forgive you after all the times he struggled to recover from his prize being stolen."

Struggled?

"I haven't been a good girlfriend haven't I..."

Pin stopped. "What?"

Silence.

"Cut it out, would ya! I never said anything about you being a bad girlfriend. Now you are just twisting my words around."

Leave her, Leafy. Just walk away from your problems again. Like you always do.

"I'm not in the head space to talk about this right now. Can we change the topic?"

"You're the one who brought it up but okay...", she mumbled under her breath.

I cleared my throat. "How's your relationship with Coiny been?"

Her frown changed back into a soft smile. "It's been pretty nice. He's a really good boyfriend and all, but sometimes I feel like he's- doing too much? Does that make me ungrateful?"

I let out a soft chuckle. "No! I have the same issue with Firey. Always waking up early for me to make breakfast, making my bed, giving me my medicine, taking care of my...our wolf, and many other things."

She sighed. "Men are just too much sometimes."

I dreamily thought about Firey's cute, lit up face. "I really do appreciate all he's done for me, though."

Pin patted me on the shoulder. "I appreciate Coiny a lot too."

Maybe we could learn to appreciate each other again.

———————————————————

Firey's POV!: "Alright! Love you!" I hollered. But she had already been talking to Pin.

"So- how'd you guys start dating?" Coiny asked impatiently.

"O-Oh...it's a long story."

He raised his eyebrow. "Come on, spit it out."

I didn't want to mention our argument beforehand, so I had to shorten up the story.

"Well- we were outside looking at the stars and uh...It just- slipped it out."

Coiny nudged me jokingly. "So YOUR the one who got it out first, huh? Wow- I'm genuinely impressed."

I thought back at the memorizing moment of each star glistening in the dark night sky, shielding our faces with a luminous glare as we stared deeply into each other's eyes.

"It really was a beautiful moment."

My flame grew immensely while I thought back on the night.

"Uh...Firey?" Coiny backed away from me as he grew sweaty from the increase in heat.

"FIREY!" he shouted.

My mind suddenly cleared as I became more aware of my flame size.

"AH-MY BAD!" I was embarrassed. I hate when my body does that.

I cleared my throat like nothing happened. "Anything else you wanted to ask me?"

Coiny suddenly burst out into laughter, each laugh echoing throughout the town center. "OH MAN, FIREY! I'VE NEVER SEEN YOU GET THAT BIG-"

I narrowed my eyes at him as I noticed others looking at us. "Hush!"

His cries of laughter slowly faded away. "Okay- I think I'm done."

"Good. Now what's been up with you, huh?" I was ever so desperately trying to change the subject.

"Just hanging around...mostly with Pin. It's been a nice couple of months."

Coiny sat down at an outdoor table and waited for me to join him.

"I have a- pretty stupid question to ask you."

I sat down. "I'm listening."

"Is...Is Leafy doing okay?"

I was stunned by his words of concern. "She's- fine. Why do you ask?"

He took a deep breath. "I feel sorry for her. She's been through so much and I heard she had to go to the hospital..."

The thought of seeing her in that hospital killed me. "Her arm is still healing, but it's definitely better than it was before."

"If you don't mind me asking, what happened?"

The moment came back in a flash. My mind fogged with an image of her lying stiffly in the bed while she grasped onto her heavily bruised arm.

"How are you feeling?"

"Not like myself, but I'll pull through."

"Firey?"

I cleared my throat. "Sorry. Anyways, she was off fighting a pack of wolves in Yoyleland and ended up getting attacked by one, which led to her arm getting bruised and infected."

"How long was she in Yoyleland for?"

"I'm guessing a few years... but I only started visiting her about a few weeks ago."

"So you happened to go check up on her and found out she was injured?"

"Yes. I went to bring her food and her pet wolf, Apollo, led me to her lying...unconscious by a tree."

Coiny crossed his arms. "I feel terrible. Maybe I should apologize for-"

I interrupted him. "No. You didn't do anything, okay? This is between me and her."

"I still chased her. I'm still in the wrong."

"So did everyone else, Coiny. You were just following their footsteps."

"You're right..."

The sun grew strong with rays of heat reflecting onto our faces. "H-Hey, Coiny?"

"What's up?"

"Where do you...take Pin out on dates?"

A hot flush billowed into his cheeks. "Oh gee- I've uh- taken her to a lot of places, ha."

The looks on his face indicated that he was daydreaming about the past dates he had been on. "The best date I have been on was when we went to this restaurant called Gourmet Galley. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was amazing!"

I became pleased at the thought of taking Leafy on our first date. "I'll plan on taking her soon!"

"You really love her. Don't you, Firey?"

I looked up at the tall, lush trees surrounding the town. "Yes, Coiny. Yes I do."

Chapter 15: The Date.

Summary:

Two love birds!

Leafy and Firey spent the entire day with Coiny and Pin. Catching up felt pretty nice after a long time of not communicating with each other.

Sunday, 12:00PM.- Leafy's POV.

*Tick, tock, tick, tock* The clock ticked away each wasted minute of my life. "I'm so bored," I said to myself. All I wanted was a day of relaxation, but it turns out I didn't need it. Apollo lay his head down on my lap as I sat upright on the couch. "Hey, Firey!"

Firey swept the floor relentlessly. "You doing alright, my love?"

"Oh! I'm fine- sorry to bother you while you are cleaning."

He chuckled. "You aren't bothering me! Ugh- I wish I didn't HAVE to clean. I hate it."

"I can help-"

"No. You rest. You're the one with an injury."

I stared directly at Firey as he rushed around the house cleaning each corner. He expressed a look of weary on his warm face. "Firey, please let me-"

"Just stay put, will you? Gosh, you are so stubborn!"

He's right. I am stubborn.

"I'm- I'm sorry."

He sighed, paused his cleaning, and came over to me, his feet dragging against the floor. "I know you just want to help, and I'm not angry at you for that. I apologize for being stern with you about it."

"You're- an amazing boyfriend, okay? I just want you to know that. You do so much for me and I feel as if I do so little."

He went to hug me but stopped himself before I burnt to a crisp. "Shit!" He looked ashamed of himself.

I smiled. "Haha! Don't worry, I wish I could hug you too!" I kissed the top of his hand and his face became a flustered red. "You're okay, Firey. I'm okay."

Apollo rubbed up against my cheek and gave me kisses. "Aw, buddy! Knock it off!" But he continued to grant me the same amount of kisses. "Haha, Apollo!! Stop- PFFT!" I couldn't contain my laughter.

He finally halted his kisses and sat up. "Ah, man! Fireball, I just got lovingly attacked by a wolf!"

Firey's face was a bright red, holding in his laughter. "BAHAHA-"

"Firey!! Quit laughing at me!!"

"I CAN'T-"

We exchanged a row of laughs, Apollo's ears darting upwards.

He darted his eyes at the broom on the floor and back at me. "Hey..."

"What is it?"

He took a deep breath. "Would you- want to go on our first date tonight?"

T-TONIGHT?!

My anxiety shot through the roof. "Where would we go?"

"Well- let's just say it's somewhere fancy. I can't spoil the surprise, though!"

FANCY?!? I DON'T HAVE ANY NICE CLOTHES TO WEAR!!"

"I-I'd love to, Firey."

His face lit up like his flame, expressing a look of content on his face. "YES! TONIGHT AT SIX GOOD?!"

I think that gives me enough time to plan my look.

"Sure!"

———————————————————

"I'm going out, Firey!"

Confusion filled his face. "Going out? With who?"

"It's a surprise!"

He jerked a smile. "Ah, alright! Just be home before six!"

"Oh, I definitely will! Love you!"

"Love you too!"

*Time skip* Sunday, 2:15PM.

I arrived at the town center, in hopes of finding Flower. She would know what to do.

I looked around timidly. My body tensed up at every glance that was given.

Coming here without Firey was a terrible idea!

I felt a sudden tap on my shoulder as I stood alone scanning the town.

"Leafy?!"

"Huh?"

It was Needle. Her stainless steel reflected in the sun as she leaned over me. "Since when did you come back?"

Great...

"Hey, Needy-" *SLAP!*

"Don't call me Needy!! Anyways, what brings you here, hm?"

I rubbed my cheek so the pain would go away. "I came here to look for someone..."

"Who? Firey? If you're looking for him, I can assure you he's not here-"

"No! I'm looking for Flower!!"

Her eyebrows raised as she expressed a look of shock. "Why would you want to talk to her?"

I became flustered. "Ha- well uh...you see- I...uhm...heh. I have a uh...uhm- *clears throat* Oh- gee. Haha- uh..."

"LEAFY! SPIT IT OUT!!"

"I HAVE A DATE TONIGHT AND I NEED CLOTHES!!"

The commotion around the town suddenly died down, creating a moment of silence after my confession. Oh, why me!

Needle whispered, "A date?"

I dipped my head downward, staring at the ground. "Yep."

She smiled brightly. "Ooo-! May I ask who?"

As if she already didn't suspect who.

"Firey."

"You guys are a thing now?! What did I miss!"

"Look, that's not important. What I need to do is get clothes for my date as soon as possible and-"

"I can bring you to Flower."

My anxiety drifted away for a moment. "You can?!"

"Yeah! You know- you missed a lot while you were suspiciously gone for so long, but she owns a fashion store now!"

I felt so relieved hearing that. "That's- surprisingly convenient for me..."

"It sure is!! Now come on!"

I followed Needle's lead to Flower's fashion store.

"Thanks for helping me again, Needle."

"Of course! Even though I still don't trust you after you threw a stack of knives at me, I don't mind doing this."

Oh right. That.

"I'm really sorry for-"

"We're here!!" The building shined with a vivid pink and big bulbs of light.

"It's- huge!"

Needle patted me on the shoulder. "Well- I'm out of here. Hope you find what you're looking for!"

"Oh...alright! It was lovingly talking to you, Needle! Thanks again!"

She held up a thumbs up and walked away.

Let's hope Flower accepts me now.

I opened the door and was greeted by fancy frilled dresses, heels, and dainty bracelets.

I quickly became overwhelmed by the amount of clothes and accessories she had in here. I turned away from the distraction of the clothes and found my way to the front desk. At the front desk, Flower was silently reading her fashion magazine. The cover showed a picture of a silver-spoon in an intricate ruffled skirt and an elegantly patterned top.

"Excuse...me? I felt extremely awkward.

She put her finger up to indicate that she was in the middle of reading her magazine.

She quickly threw down her magazine and offered help. "What are you looking for?"

In a sudden moment, her eyes widened. "YOU?!"

My heart was pounding. "H-Hey, Flower!"

"Oh- ! I haven't seen you since my competing days- ack! Where have you been? I also should be asking- uh...why are you here?"

"It's- quite a long story and I'm currently short on time, but look- even if you dislike me, would ya help a girl out?"

She sighed heavily. "What's the occasion?"

My heart fluttered at the thought of the beautiful date night coming afoot. "A date somewhere fancy. That's all I know."

"A- date? You're with someone?"

Ignoring her question, I jumped into a panic. "I just- really need something to wear!"

She scanned the rows of clothing and came around from her desk. "Follow me."

I trailed behind her, but I kept getting distracted by the various amounts of outfit possibilities here. "How do you do it?"

"Do- what?"

"How do you keep everything so pristine and organized? Even with the amount of clothes you have in here?!"

"Simple. I sort it by color and clothing type."

Suddenly, she grabbed my arm and pulled me to a row of summer dresses.

"Since it's getting warmer outside, you should consider wearing a summer dress. I just got these last week and they've been selling like crazy!"

I quickly scanned the rack of summer patterned dresses in front of me. "Maybe that will be a good choice."

She pulled my arm around again.

"Or I have these ruffled skirts! Perfect for a date night if you ask me."

Hmm...skirt or dress? I'm thinking...dress.

"I think I'd prefer to go back to the dress racks."

Flower quickly turned around and brought me to the same section of dresses. "Did any of these catch your eye?"

If I'm being honest, I don't even know what color would look good on me.

"Sorry if this is a silly question, but what color would look best on me?"

She scratched her head and glanced over at the racks and back at me. "I'm thinking...maybe a light yellow or pink. Your green clashes well with it."

Yellow would...actually look good on me I think! I adore the color yellow because it reminds me of a tree...the tree from my childhood. The lemon tree that I once grew from. Now, it's chopped down and gone.

Flower continued to present outfit ideas, but my daydreaming skipped half of it.

"Blah, blah, blah" is what it sounded like to me right now.

I snapped back to reality and watched Flower pick up a long, yellow flower dress with ruffled sleeves. "Does this catch your eye?"

My eyes glistened in fascination. "It's- perfect."

Flower handed it to me and smiled. "You know, I'm actually quite glad you like it. But that doesn't mean I trust you yet!"

Of course she doesn't. Not a single soul besides Firey and Coiny does.

"I...understand. Don't worry."

The truth is, I didn't understand. I've changed for the better good! Why am I still seen as a monster?

She strictly narrowed her eyes at me. "You can come to the cash register whenever you like. I'll be ready for you." She trotted away to the register.

Maybe I should check out the accessories. Just in case I like something.

Time was ticking, I had to hurry up.

I quickly scanned the row of accessories to find a selection of bows.

Hm...yellow or pink? According to Flower's tips, I felt as if the pink would clash better with the yellow. "This is perfect! Firey is going to love it!!"

I rushed to the front and threw my stuff down. "He's going to love it!!"

Flower jerked a smile and scanned my items. "Trying to impress him, ay? Is this your first date?"

"Heh...yeah. This is my first date."

*Beep* "Figured. I mean- you seemed pretty panicked looking for something nice."

She pushed my items closer to me. "Your total will be sixty dollars and forty cents."

Sixty!? Sheesh...I should have paid more attention to the price.

I handed her a pile of cash, which I had stolen from Firey's room. I will pay him back later I promise.

"This should be enough!" I jerked a smile.

She carefully counted each bill and cent, glancing up and down at me. "You're ten cents short."

My heart sank. How could this be possible?

"I- uh. Just...give me a second." I checked the floor to see if I had dropped anything. Nothing. What do I do now!!

Flower scoffed. "Just leave."

"What?"

"Just leave. It's fine. I won't make a big deal over ten cents."

No...this felt wrong. Isn't that technically STEALING?!? I can't...I'm such a bad person.

"But-"

"Girl, leave!"

I grabbed the dress and bow and backed away from the register. "I- appreciate it. I'm really sorry-"

I ran out of the store before she could say more.

My feet burned with each sprint. The sun was stronger than it's been. "Ouch!" I said with every other step.

———————————————————

I made it back to Firey's. When I walked in, he was all dressed up.

Rosy pink blush covered my cheeks as I stared at his beautiful orange-yellow light that shone throughout the room. He wore a black bow tie and a silver watch. "Oh! You're finally home!! I was starting to-"

"DON'T LOOK!" I tucked my dress into my arms so he couldn't see it well.

His face lit up in shock. "Alright..."

I sprinted down the hall into my temporary room and slammed the door.

"Hopefully this fits me well..."

It slid on easily and covered my shoulders lightly, fitting like a glove. "I...I love it." I stared at myself in the mirror admiringly. "Since when did I start looking so much like I used to?" The bags under my eyes disappeared, my scars weren't as visible, and my green was as vivid as it used to be.

I guess it was worth trying, wasn't it.

I gently placed the bow on my head and tilted it to the side. "Perfect." I took a deep breath and walked out of my room. I made my way to the living room where Firey patted Apollo's head. "How do I look?"

He stopped and stared lovingly at me. His pupils grew in size along with his flame as blush shone heavily on his cheeks. You...You look- beautiful." He couldn't stop staring at my dress.

"You look...very handsome." I grabbed his hand and rubbed it gently. "It's going to be a great first night out."

"It sure is." We both looked down at Apollo who cocked his head in confusion. "mmrp?"

I giggled softly at his little expressions. "Let's feed you, buddy."

Firey let go of my hand and waltzed to the fridge. "What should I give him? Beef or chicken?"

Apollo spun in circles at the sound of chicken. "HOWLLLLL!"

Firey rolled his eyes and smiled. "Alright, alright! I'm giving it to you!" He placed down a large bowl of chicken, enough to feed a family of four. Apollo quickly dug his head into the bowl and ripped apart each piece of chicken.

Firey cleared his throat. "Ready to go, my love?"

I took a deep breath, my anxiety increasing. "I am!"

His smile brightened up the room like a strong ray of sunshine shining through each window. "You're going to love this place!"

I hope so. I don't want anything embarrassing happening.

We walked out the door to be greeted by the end-of-the-day sunshine. The sky was as clear as glass, bringing a sense of comfort to the moment.

"Isn't it beautiful out today, Firey?"

He chuckled. "Not as beautiful as you..."

"Y-You mean that?" I couldn't tell how much I was blushing, but I knew it was more than I ever had before.

"Of course! Why would I lie about your beauty? I mean- look at how you are dressed tonight!"

I exchanged a soft smile with him. "You look handsome in bow ties. You should wear them more often."

His flame sparked with a joyful appreciation. "You think so? I wasn't sure how I felt about it."

"I wasn't sure about my dress, but look now! You love it!"

"...I love you, Leafy."

"I love you too, Firey."

His soft, warm hands intertwined with mine as my blisters became soothed by his loving gentle rubs.

A round of silence came around us. We expressed our love with rubs and gentle intertwining hands as the birds filled the sky with their songs of beauty. As we trotted through the streets, each tree swayed slowly in the gentle breeze, creating a sign of peace and appreciation for nature.

"I love the trees here. Each other has its own unique beauty to it."

He darted his eyes at me. "Notice how each leaf has its own unique beauty to it?"

A tear of happiness shed down my warm cheek. "That's...that's so sweet of you to say, Firey."

"Just stating the obvious. I mean- look at you! I've never seen such a loving, kind-hearted, unique leaf!"

His words softened my heart. Did he really mean those words?

"In all honesty, I wish they had the trees I came from around here..."

He stopped in the middle of the sidewalk to question me. "What type of leaf are you anyway? I think you told me, but...I completely forgot."

"I came from the healthiest of lemon trees." I remember those trees as if it were yesterday. Each one grew a handful of fresh, yellow lemons with an overpowering citrus aroma, creating a pleasant scent in the air.

"That explains why you smell like citrus!"

I...do?

"Is it a bad smell-? Oh, I'm so sorry! I-"

He placed his palm over my mouth so I couldn't finish my sentence. "It's a beautiful scent, Leafy! Don't think otherwise."

"...I trust you, Firey."

I thought about the day he brought me pancakes for the first time. Each scarfed-down bite was savored in my dry mouth, making me want more. "I'm sorry, Firey. This isn't going to work out." I had said that to him that day...full of regret for my words that filled emptiness into the starving hole in my stomach.

Little did I know I'd be trusting him more than ever before.

"One more block and we're there!" He said enthusiastically.

I feel like I've been down these blocks too often. I'm really getting sick of it. "Yay!"

We arrived a few minutes later. Firey shook with excitement as I expressed a deep confusion over where we were.

"Where are we-?"

"Ta-da!! Leafy, this is Gourmet Galley. One of the greatest restaurants around!"

Greatest? What is wrong with him!! This is our FIRST date!! It shouldn't be this special!

"Aw man, Fireball! This place is gorgeous on the outside!"

An arrangement of flowers bloomed beautifully in the front garden's patches of soil. Each flower calling its name out to me with a tinted color.

We held hands as we slowly walked upeach step to the door. At the door, we were greeted by a potato with a large mustache and tired eyes. He wore a button-down with a fancy hat and tie.

Once we fully got inside, he asked for our reservation.

"Reservation?"

Firey nodded while his smile brightened. "Yes, it should be under the name, "Firey."

Potato scanned for reservations thoroughly until he spotted Firey's name. "Alrighty, right this way folks!"

I carefully walked behind the server as Firey trailed along, his feet shuffling.

"Take your time and look for some drinks. Our waitress will be right with you."

Once we sat down, I examined my surroundings more, each glance making me overwhelmed.

I recognized some people sitting down and eating, but I don't feel like stating all their names. (I'm sure they wouldn't want to state mine either...)

The room consisted of a large wooden floor with big rounded tables. Each table had a red tablecloth and an organized set of plates with eating utensils. A candle was placed in the middle of each table, symbolizing the love between two. Bright, white chandeliers hung over everyone's heads as they enjoyed their meals.

"You okay, Leafy?" I think he noticed how frantically I looked around.

"Oh- sorry. Yes, I'm okay!"

The truth is I wasn't. My anxiety levels were through the roof and I felt shaky- the possibilities of what could go wrong filled each space in my mind.

"You can order anything you like, honey. I got you."

I shook off my shakiness and jerked a smile. He treats me like royalty.

I scanned the drink menu and felt sick to my stomach reading the options. On top of that, the prices were outrageous. That reminds me. I have to pay him back soon for this dress. "Hm. Not really feeling in the mood for a drink today."

"Leafy, please. If you want something, don't be afraid to ask for-"

"I'm alright, Firey. Let's order food."

His eyebrows raised. "You sure? Alright then- I won't argue with you."

I reached under the table and placed my scarred hand gently on his knee, causing his face to light up like the candle in the middle of the table.

"Any appetizers that catch your eye?"

Oh, right! Appetizers...

"Hm..." I began to scratch my head with confusion.

Garlic aioli fries, stuffed mushrooms, beef wellington bites, calamaria, spinach and artichoke dip, shrimp cocktail, yoyle...

y-yoyleberries?!?

I closed my menu as quick as a flash, startling Firey.

"Is everything alright?"

I sank in my seat, unable to answer his question.

How is my struggle food a luxury here?

I peeked inside the menu again to check the price. $21.99 for a plate of 6-?? Are we serious!"

"Leafy-? Honey?"

He checked the list of appetizers to see what was bothering me. His eyes widened once he knew why I was acting the way I was.

"H-Hey! It's okay, my love...I'm here."

My expression softened, shaking off my thoughts. "Sorry." I got up and brushed off my dress, smiling.

I cleared my throat. "What sounds good to you?"

"I personally like spinach and artichoke dip, but it's up to you!"

"I'd...love that."

I haven't had any of the things listed on the menu in a while, so I didn't mind trying them again.

"Great!"

The waitress headed towards our table, her face looking awfully familiar.

Oh. It was Match.

Her makeup was done with care, her formal clothes fit her like a glove, and the top of her head shined red.

"Oh. Hey, Firey. And- like...you, I guess. What like- appetizer do you want?"

Firey suspiciously waved Match closer to him, whispering something into her ear.

"And spinach and artichoke dip, please!"

What was that for?

Match moved away from him so she didn't get lit. "So like- are you two a thing or..."

"Yes, we are. Is there a problem with that?"

I didn't want her gossiping about us. I had nothing against Match, but she ticked me off when she gave me an instant attitude.

"Uhm- no. I'm just like- wondering. Chill, girl."

Maybe I was being too sensitive.

"Sorry, Match. Thank you for taking our order."

She scoffed and walked away with proper form.

"Was I too harsh?"

Firey nodded in disagreement. "Not at all! See- people need to warm up to you. I swear they will start to see you've changed soon."

I would hope so. I worked my butt off to get to where I am now, and I still feel like I'm not perfect.

That's what I need to be. Perfect.

"You know, Firey...this date has barely started and I'm having a good time already."

He looked up from his menu and blushed. "O-Oh, you think so? I'm glad you like it here."

The atmosphere was truly comforting. The candles created peace and certainty, romantic music soothed nerves, and each couple smiled brightly, including us.

"So...Leafy, my love, what would you like to have as your main dish?"

Oh, right-!

"Let me take one more glance at the menu..."

As I trailed my eyes across the menu, I noticed Firey staring at me. His pupils were large and shining with a glisten of love.

I peeked from my menu. "What's up?"

He seemed to be startled. I could tell by the way he jumped out of his seat. "Fuck- sorry!"

He began to sweat nervously, his eye contact moving from my face to his menu. "What lovely options they have!"

I knew that he was trying to change the topic, after all, he seemed to be in denial about looking at me for a good minute with love in his eyes.

"What do you think you're going to get, honey?"

"I'm unsure."

In all honesty, I had trouble reading some things beacuse I was alone and had no education for a while in Yoyleland.

I'll just pick something I can properly read.

"Steak and potatoes sounds good."

He let out a little giggle. "I was thinking the same thing!"

I hope it's not too expensive...

"I can get something else if it's too-"

He closed his menu and placed it at the corner of the table, darting his eyes at me. "As I said before, get what you like. Don't worry about the price."

We've only been dating for about a week now....why does he treat me like I'm his wife?

"Firey, hun, you're doing too much for me."

"NOTHING is ever too much!"

I closed up my menu and sighed as my stomach growled with hunger. I was becoming impatient for appetizers until Match came out with our dish.

Wait...two dishes?

She placed down the dip, which came with an assortment of chips and carrots.

I can't remember the last time I ate something like this...

Then, she placed down something else. The thing I wished to never see again.

Why would he order those-?! Is he insane?

"You know the side-effects of these berries, right?" Match was serious for once.

"I do. That's why I got them."

She rolled her eyes. "Okay...here you go. Enjoy."

She strutted away with sass, her hands on her hips.

"Uh- Firey...?"

Before he could answer me, he had placed one into his mouth, his body becoming shelled with a metal plaster. His flame no longer shined with an orange brightness, instead it was a dull gray.

"Works that quick, huh? Haha!"

I had missed his beautiful orange glow of brightness already.

"Why would you willingly eat one of those...berries?!"

Glancing at his metal skin felt like looking in a mirror. I can't believe I looked like that for years. No color, no expression...just a plain, dull leaf.

"Well- I guess I just felt it was right. That's all."

Right-?!

He suddenly arose higher onto his seat, his legs tucked underneath himself, and began to lean forward.

"W-What are you-"

He pulled me in closer to his face, heavily expressing a look of loving eyes. The glisten in his eyes was as bright as his old sense of ignited light that shone throughout the room.

"You're going to burn me-! Stop!"

Our bodies pressed together in a moment of bliss, confusion filling up my expression of love.

Then...it happened.

Our lips collided, his face showing an expression of shock and relief of a kiss.

The effortless kiss lasted longer than expected, both of us enjoying the moment while we could. His lips were as soft as rose petals, his warmth still being throughout the kiss, even with a metal shell around his flame. Our fingers interlaced together, my blisters soothed by his grip. My heart pounded with each lasting second of the kiss, the atmosphere around me becoming blurred by the moment, forgetting where I was. We moved away from the kiss with sighs, the thrilling moment still feeling present.

Was I in a moment of paradise? His kiss representing the warm summer breeze? Our eyes representing the brightness of the sun's rays? The casual, long-lasting kiss like the gentle waves? Our loving touch reminding us of the waves softly washing up against the shoreline? The rhythm of the kiss being as regular as the tides?

It was over with, but it wasn't. The date was still in the present moment, and we haven't even begun eating our food.

"T-That was..."

My eyes were still in a moment of shock as blush covered every inch of my face.

Firey let out a gentle giggle. "Words can't describe what that was."

I suddenly snapped out of the moment that had been over with and saw familiar faces staring at us, some laughing.

"I suddenly feel uncomfortable, Firey..." I whispered.

"I hope I didn't make you uncomfortable with that kiss."

My voice was still low. "No-! That part was...indescribable. I'm talking about how everyone is staring at us." Drops of sweat rolled down my face, my anxiety reaching high levels. "Let's just eat, Firey."

"Okay, love." His face still expressed how he felt after the kiss, full of relief and loving warmth.

We ate the dip together, laughing when we accidentally got some on our faces. Firey took a salty, crunchy chip and dunked it into the small pot of dip, covering the chip with the dip like a blanket. "Open up!"

"Wha-?"

He fed me the chip and began to laugh when it got all over my lips.

"Firey!!" I muffled as I crunched on the crispy chip.

"AHAAH-! You look so cute when you eat like that!"

"Oh- shush. Let's see how YOU look when you eat!" I reached for a chip and lathered it in dip to the point that it became flimsy.

"Whoops..." I said as I shoved it into Firey's mouth.

Why is he so cute when he eats?

He had better manners than me so he swallowed and then spoke. "Soggy, but salty. I like it."

Before all the dip was gone, Match came out, sassier than before. "Are you two love birds going to like- order soon? I came out earlier, but I didn't want to interrupt whatever...you guys were doing."

Firey and I side eyed each other with embarrassment.

He replied before I could. "Oh, yes! We didn't see you come over earlier."

"I could tell. Anyways, what would you guys like- want to eat or whatever."

Firey ordered our steaks and looked back over at me when Match left. "I can't wait to eat! It's going to be so good!"

I stared at his bow tie. It still looked handsome on him, even if he was metal.

"I'm glad that the berries came with a yellow tomato- that would have been bad if it didn't, haha!"

"Yeah..."

Time passed. We talked, laughed, joked, and ate. The food was delicious, but I had to fight the urge not to attack the steak like a wild animal.

Once we ate and paid, we started to walk home. Firey was no longer in his metal shell after eating the yellow tomato.

"That was...a beautiful night, Leafy."

"It really was. Thank you for taking me."

He smiled. "Of course."

"I didn't expect a kiss on the lips tonight, but I loved every minute of it."

"..."

"You okay, Fireball?"

"I just- wish we could do that again."

"Maybe one day we could again. You never know!"

One day we can kiss again...right?

Chapter 16: The Unexpected.

For the first time in a while, the sky was a dull grey. The sun was covered by an overcast of dark clouds, creating a setting of gloom.

Firey's POV: I couldn't believe the fact that I kissed her. It felt like a dream, but it wasn't.

I wish the moment of bliss had lasted forever, but good things must come to an end even if we don't like it.

I stood by the back door, watching the raindrops race each other against the glass.

Suddenly, I heard gentle footsteps come from the hallway.

*Yawn* "Good morning, sweetie."

My thoughts were interrupted by her sudden appearance. I turned around and walked up to her. "Good morning, my love. Breakfast is on the table if you're hungry." I kissed the top of her hand.

The room filled with a scent of fresh lemon citrus, making me blush at the thought of her sweetness.

"I'm not that hungry today, Firey. I'm sorry."

She looked drained with exhaustion.

"Are you feeling okay?" I put the back of my palm on her forehead to see if she felt warm, and she did. Her face was pale with abnormally rosy red cheeks.

"You don't look too hot...but you feel it!" Haha, get it?

She smiled at my dumb joke. "I'm okay, Firey. I promise."

She waltzed her way to the couch and lay down with tiredness in her eyes, wrapping the blanket around her comfortably.

Apollo ran to the couch and sat on the floor next to it, giving Leafy comfort.

I put her breakfast in the fridge, although I was concerned that she wasn't eating.

"Thank you again for a great night." She muffled under the blanket.

"Anything for you, my love. I hope you aren't catching a cold."

Her facial expression softened, her eyes dropping with eye bags of tiredness. "I don't think I am."

My eyes began examining her once more, her sickness becoming clearer.

I hate to see her like this.

"Do you need another blanket?"

She turned to the side, her eye contact avoiding mine. "No."

I let out a concerned sigh, pondering what she could have.

The flu,maybe?

"Let me know if it gets worse later. I'll pick up some medicine from the pharmacy down the block."

But she had already been fast asleep, her eyes shut tightly. She even looked beautiful when she slept.

Her green showed a slight distortion of color, causing me to feel a sense of worry.

Calm down, Firey. She probably has a cold.

*RINGGGGGGG!* Apollo's ears perked up, but he remained silent.

Oh great. Who is it now?

I looked at my phone and saw that it was a call from Gelatin. Quickly, I sprinted to another room so Leafy could sleep in silence and picked up the phone, anticipating what he had to say.

"Hey, Gelatin," I whispered.

"Hey, Fireboy!" He said with his loud mouth.

He cleared his throat. "Why are you...whispering?"

"Leafy's sick. She's resting on the couch, so I don't want to be a burden."

"Oh. Well, I hope she's okay!"

I poked my head out to glance at her. "Me too."

"Anyways, I was just calling you to see how you've been feeling. I know the last time we saw each other it was a bit chaotic and-"

"You heard that we are dating. Didn't you?"

I heard him hold a laugh. "Whaaaa?! No! No way..."

"Yes, you did. Don't lie." I said while still whispering.

"Fine...I heard from around the town."

I scoffed. Why does EVERYONE have to know EVERYTHING?!

"I'm really happy for you, though! You two must be a great couple. I saw it happening from the very beginning."

I began to daydream about her brittle hands gripping onto mine. "Thanks, Gelatin."

"The other reason why I was calling was to ask if you wanted to...hang out?"

Although I would love to hang out, I didn't want to leave Leafy here alone. What if she needed help getting up?

"I would love to, but-" Then I remembered. Leafy's birthday is next week. I wanted to plan a birthday party, but I don't have any decorations yet!

"But...?" He seemed on edge.

"Sure. We can hang out. You have to come somewhere with me, though."

"Uh...sure! I'll see you in about an hour?"

"Yep! See ya, Gelatin!" I hung up before he could question me and put the phone down. I walked over to Leafy, who was still fast asleep on the couch.

With each footstep, the floorboards creaked, my heart pounding quicker than I was moving.

Please don't wake up...please don't wake up!

"F-Firey?"

Shit! "I'm so sorry, honey! I didn't mean to wake you. It was an-"

She turned herself around and groaned in pain. "You didn't wake me. I woke up because I had a vision again."

"A- vision?"

Her eyes widened with extreme fear. "It's- *cough* nothing." She sat up and held her stomach tightly, indicating her stomach was hurting. Apollo perked up and sniffed her, brushing his nuzzle up against her knee.

"Not now, Apollo." She genuinely looked awful. Every bright aspect of her had faded away, each part of her body becoming dull.

"Let me get you a cup of water."

Before she could speak, I got up and ran to the kitchen, grabbing a water bottle from the fridge. "Here. Drink up."

She cracked a smile, her eyes expressing gratitude. She slowly opened it up and took gentle sips, water droplets running down the side of the bottle.

"Are you okay? I have to go run some errands soon and-"

"Do what you have to do. Don't let me stop you, okay? I have Apollo to keep me company anyway."

She says that, but her hands still gripped tightly around her stomach.

"Please don't lie to me, Leafy."

She narrowed her eyes angrily, indicating she was about to snap. "Firey, I swear if you-"

Leafy had stopped herself from getting frustrated and lay back down, slapping herself in the face repeatedly. "Why am I getting mad at you for helping me again...UGH! I'm sorry, Firey. I just don't feel like myself right now."

I understood every part of her body language. I knew she was frustrated, I knew she was drained, and I most certainly knew she was upset with herself.

She shouldn't be though. She doesn't realize how gorgeous she is. Inside AND out.

"Don't be sorry for feeling that way. I understand your frustrations, and I'm sorry you feel sick right now."

She stopped slapping herself and brightened up her smile. "I love you...okay? I- *cough* hope you know that."

"Oh, trust me, I do, Leafy. I do."

Leafy's Vision- I lay on the couch as stiff as a board, awaiting the moment a nap can soothe my pain.

"Let me know if it gets worse...blah blah blah." That's all I heard until my eyes dozed off into a dark space.

"It's been a long time...hasn't it?"

My legs grew weak as my body ached with shocks of pain. "SHOW YOURSELF! SHOW YOURSELF YOU FUCKING...COWARD!"

"Don't you feel the pain spreading throughout your body? Hurts, doesn't it?"

My words could no longer spill out. The cup was full, but not ready to be emptied.

"Doesn't it remind you of the amount of pain you have put others through?"

Blurred vision...weak legs...and weak words.

She'd finally shown from the shadows, a sudden presence of glowing red appearing in the room. "Miss me?"

I was able to scream again. "YOU AREN'T ME! I'VE CHANGED-! AND GUESS WHO HASN'T CHANGED? YOU."

She let out a maniacal laugh, her sharp, yellow teeth showing. "You idiot! I AM you! Don't you get it? You're coming back to your old senses, dear. Be a doll and spare the world from the agony you unleash upon us."

A-Agony? Who does she think I am? Some kind of criminal? Give me a break! "Yeah, right. You're me."

She smiled evilly. "See! Now you get it!"

"You THINK you're me because in reality, you have no IDEA who you are. Haunting others isn't going to define you. You have to define yourself."

"...Excuse me?"

"You heard me."

"Think you're so tough, ay? Well- I hope you enjoy all the pain you endure while this sickness slowly takes over your body until you are no more."

"Oh chill out, girl. It's just a cold."

It's just a cold.

———————————————————

Firey's POV- Going out with Gelatin.

I opened the door to find the clear, green Gelatin awkwardly smiling at me.

"Hey! Are you ready to...go out?" I winked at him, indicating to him not to say anything about WHY we were going out.

He took a step inside, peeking his head out to see if Leafy was asleep before he spoke.

"I'm ready! By the way, how's Leafster doing?"

Leafy had overheard from the couch, answering the question before I could.

"I'm fine. Thanks for asking."

Gelatin smiled, surprised that she decided to answer him. "Oh, no problem."

I waved Gelatin to the door. "Let's leave before it gets too late."

He nodded and waved goodbye to Leafy, but she had been petting Apollo, so she ignored him.

"I'm leaving, Leafy! Feel better!"

Her head perked up. "Alright! Love you, Firey."

Ah...she loves me. "Love you too!"

I slammed the door shut and began my walk to the party supplies store with Gelatin.

"What a terrible day it is! I mean- just look at the sky! So gloomy and cloudy."

I let out a sigh of depression. "Yep. I hate it."

"Well, at least it's not raining!" Gelatin exclaimed.

Until I felt a droplet. "Ow!"

"Are you alright, Firey? What's wrong?"

I looked up at the sky and began to pick up the pace, Gelatin rushing along behind me.

"Did you feel a raindrop?"

I nodded. "Hurry, Gelatin! I really would like to be in one piece by the time I get to the store."

"I'm coming!" He grabbed my arm and sprinted down the block, pushing me to go faster. "We're almost there!"

I squinted my eyes to clear up the blurred store sign. It read, "Party Palace."

"That's the place right over there!" Another wave of drops touched the top of my flame.

"Ouch!"

Gelatin began to slow down, his legs becoming stiff. "I see it!"

We arrived, both of us sweaty and exhausted.

Gelatin quickly opened the door, the bell ringing. "Fireboy first, haha!"

I dropped my head down and gave him the side eye. "Very funny, Gelatin."

He chuckled and came in after me. "Alright. So what did we come here for again?"

I began to laugh. "Gee, I wonder!"

"I'm just messin' with you! Anyway, what do you think the Leafster would like?"

"Well, I was thinking we could get yellow balloons...maybe some green and pink too."

Gelatin's face grew with confusion. "Why yellow? I think green is a pretty stunning color if I do say so myself." He placed his hands on his hips and stood proudly, his smile growing as fast as my frustration.

"She smells like lemon, she comes from a lemon tree, and she wore a yellow dress to our date! It would feel wrong to do any other color!"

"Okay fine...do yellow then."

I nodded and walked off to the back of the store where the birthday banners were.

Each aisle of the store was outdated. Old cards and decorations filled the shelves, each item having a faded look.

"Gee, Firey. You couldn't have picked a better place?"

"It's the only party place around here!"

I examined the back wall and found a bright birthday banner. It consisted of a light pink and white, with little flowers scattered along the edge of each letter. It read, "Happy Birthday!" in bolded text.

"This is perfect, Gelatin! Don't you think so?"

His attention shifted to mine. "Oh, sure! If you think so, then-"

I took a final glance at it. "I'm getting this one." I went to grab it, but remembered that I was a burning flame.

"I gotcha, Fireboy." Gelatin gently grabbed the banner and held it tightly in his hand.

"What else do we need?"

I scratched my arm in uncertainty. "Let's just look around."

*Time Skip.*

The rain had stopped pouring down endlessly over the town. Each tree was covered in water droplets as we walked with puddles beneath our feet. A rush of humidity came over the area, making both of us uncomfortable.

"I think we picked up a decent amount of party supplies!" I exclaimed.

"Oh, really?" Gelatin replied sarcastically.

We both shared a humorous moment while we walked down the damp sidewalk.

"When are you going to have her party?"

I thought for a moment. "It'll be held this Saturday!!"

"What time?"

"5:00 PM?"

He gave a thumbs up."Perfect!"

We reached the house and walked up the steps, our feet soaking wet.

"Make sure that the party decorations aren't visible."

Gelatin nodded and closed the bag as much as he could.

I swung the door open with force, both of us walking inside.

"Leafy...?" I whispered.

No answer. "I guess she's asleep," Gelatin said quietly.

I waved Gelatin towards me so he could follow me into my room. "I'll put the bag in my room," I whispered.

"Okay."

I tiptoed into the hallway, heading towards my room to place the bag of party supplies down.

Gelatin patiently stood by the doorway, damp feet and all. His jello felt a little soggy, even though he didn't get very wet.

"Cmon, Fireboy. I don't have all day." He playfully whispered.

"Oh, shut the hell up, Gelatin," I whispered jokingly back.

I stepped out of my room and walked back down the hallway, my feet shuffling.

"I appreciate you coming to help out, Gelatin. Really."

"Oh, pfft- it was no problem! You need anything else for the-"

"Shh. And nope, I should be all set."

"Oh, alright. I guess I'll see you then?"

"Definitely!l

"Alrighty. Byeeeeeee." He gave me a goodbye fist bump and exited through the front, leaving me alone to take care of Leafy.

I walked toward the couch to pet Apollo, who lay calmly on the floor next to the spot Leafy slept on the couch.

Leafy's head lightly touched the pillow, her body curled in a fetal position under the blanket. Her eyes looked glued shut as she rested in the echoing quiet.

Apollo let out a light yawn and got up, stretched, and walked to his bowl.

He was implying he wanted meat from the fridge.

I let out a silent chuckle and opened up the fridge. "Let's give you some steak today!"

I placed the cut-up steak in his bowl and put it in front of him, letting him know he can eat it.

"AWOOOOOO!!!"

The noise echoed throughout the entire house, causing Leafy to wake up.

Oh no!! Not again!!

I saw her eyes slowly open, her beautiful pupils being visible again.

"F-Firey? You home?" She glanced back at the kitchen, waiting for a response.

"I'm here! What's the matter?"

"Nothing. I just wanted to make sure you were here and safe."

Aww. She cares about me!

"Thanks, Leafy. Are you doing okay?"

"A little lightheaded, but I feel better than before." She let out a little cough and sank into the couch, covering herself in the thick blanket.

I noticed her moving uncomfortably underneath the blanket. "Let me check your temperature."

She looked up, her face flushed pink. "I'm fine, I promise."

She seemed dazed. "Don't lie to yourself, Leafy! You have something, and I want to make sure it goes away as soon as possible!"

I rushed into the bathroom cabinet and grabbed the thermometer I had handy.

"Here, Leafy. Open up!" I said as I rushed back to the couch.

Visible tiredness appeared on her face. "Eughhh. Fine. Only because I love you so much." She sat up and opened her mouth, sticking out her tongue.

I stuck the thermometer in her mouth until it read out a number. "100.4 degrees Fahrenheit."

"See! You have a slight fever..." I removed it from her mouth and kissed her on the hand. "Let me pick up some medicine for you."

"No, Firey! I insist- you've been doing so much for me..."

"What's too much? Taking care of you? Please! You're my girlfriend now. I'm going to treat you differently than I would've a while ago when we were just...friends!"

"Are you sure you can go out again? You just got home and-"

"Leafy. I'm fine, trust me! I'll pick up soup for us as well. It is a gloomy day after all."

Her tired expression became full of life. "I appreciate it, Firey."

I smiled and made my way towards the door, Apollo following.

"No, Apollo! You have to stay here, I'm sorry."

"Awoo..."

"Come here, boy!" Leafy yelled from the couch.

I giggled as I watched Apollo wildly run towards her, his expression bright and lively.

"Grrr-up!" He yelped.

Seeing Apollo's leg fully healed and Leafy's arm in good condition brought a sense of comfort. I felt a wave of calmness fill up inside me as I watched them smile and cuddle together.

She loves that wolf so much. I'm surprised he behaves so well for a wild animal.

"I'll be back in an hour or so!" I walked outside to see dark clouds pulling in.

"I'd better get moving before the rain attacks me again!"

Only a block away, Firey! You got this!

The sense of comfort had washed out of me just like the rain after this long season of drought.

Leafy's POV:

Waves of temperatures hit me like a rainstorm. My legs ached with unbearable pain, and I felt as if I got up for anything, they'd crumble into dust.

"Apollo...why is something always happening to me?"

He cocked his head and took in my gentle pet strokes.

"I feel so sick. I feel like I'm still stuck in Yoyeland with a hurting stomachache, relying on what was surrounding me."

It'll always haunt me, even in my better moments.

"Why am I talking about this to you...? You're just a wolf. You won't understand, right?"

He jumped up onto the couch and lay next to me, the cushions sinking from his weight.

"Apollo, you're getting too big to sit on the couch! Haha!"

"Awo!" He lay down and provided me comfort while Firey was getting my medicine.

He's such a great guy. I don't deserve him, even after all those years he ignored me.

A sudden wave of dizziness hit me. My eyes began to view the room with a sheet of fog, everything in front of me becoming a blur.

"I need to lie back down..."

I lazily dropped myself into the squishy couch cushions, my legs hitting Apollo's back.

"YELP!"

Oh no. I didn't mean to hit him. "I'm sorry, Apollo!"

He silently growled and then jumped off the couch, walking into another room.

"Aw, wait! Come back!"

I couldn't bother to get up and get him. It would hurt too much.

I rested my eyes, waiting to fall back asleep once again before dinner time, which I wasn't even looking forward to. The thought of food made me sick.

I slowly dozed off, my blurry vision becoming a room of pitch black.

⚠️IF YOU ARE SENSITIVE TO BL00D or D3@TH, SKIP THIS PART!⚠️

Nightmare 2: The air felt...different. It was cold, but too cold for fall time. It felt like midwinter. When the leaves were nonexistent, the air was bitter, and the ground looked as dead as a doornail.

I walked blocks down a steep road, each turn surprising me with an even scarier-looking setting.

"Where is everybody?"

I decided to speed up my walking as I became uncomfortable. Suddenly, the cold air began to nip at me even worse than ever before. I felt like I was about to suffocate into nothingness and pass on.

"I need shelter...it's too cold out here for me." My legs were strong, but shaky. I sprinted as many rounds as I could, and found a wooden cabin in a dark forest.

"Oh...a cabin! In a very...dark forest. With dead trees and...whatever that thing is on the ground!"

It looked like a rotting deer head.

"Whatever works, I guess. I think anything will be more comfortable than this cold air."

I sauntered towards the cabin, watching my every step. As I inched closer, it seemed further.

"Uh...what's going on?"

This didn't seem like a good idea. The atmosphere was becoming even scarier than before, and I was becoming colder by the second.

"I'm going to turn around and-"

The red figure stood still. Waiting to grasp me in her pointy, scarred claws.

"Y-You..." I turned away from her.

Why couldn't I remember the last time I saw her-?!?

"Turn back around." She said in a deep voice.

"W-Why should I?"

"GOD DAMN IT!" She grabbed me and dug her claws into my skin, my leaf texture ripping.

"AH-! LET GO OF ME YOU-"

Her claws pierced through my left leg, the pain becoming unbearable.

"Don't you think it's time you DIE off, Leafy? It's winter after all..."

Winter...? Isn't it fall time?

"What did I do to deserve-"

She tossed me on the ground and stepped hard all over me, my face becoming bruised and full of blood, dirt covering me like a blanket.

"the...pain..."

"Happy Winter, Leafy." She cackled out loud and flexed her yellow, pointed set of teeth.

The forest smelled of dying flesh. The trees toppled over my flat, bruised-up body covered in dirt patches. Each owl hooted with a sense of eeriness, creating an uncomfortable setting.

"No...NO! I CAN'T DIE LIKE THIS!"

I began to kick my legs, which were once strong, but now as weak as a thin twig, especially my left one.

The harder I tried to kick, the worse I felt.

I managed to kick the red leaf representation of me in the face, her eyes widening larger than usual.

"DIDN'T HURT YOU ENOUGH, HUH?"

She pinned me down, my wounds stinging in pain.

"IM SORRY, IM SORRY!"

She ripped me open one last time, my blood flowing out like a river.

"It's done."

I lay unconscious, my body twitching until I completely shut down. Permanently.

A puddle of blackish red blood surrounded me, along with patches of dirt and dead animal flesh that remained in the same spot for weeks.

———————————————————-

Time skip: Firey's POV.

I opened the door, luckily avoiding the storm that was about to strike.

"I'm home, Leafy!"

"AAAAA!! GET OFF ME!!! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU-!"

"L-Leafy-?!" I placed down the bag of medicine and food on the floor and ran to her, concerned.

"LEAFY!"

"IT HURTS-! OH, SOMEONE SAVE ME! I CAN'T GET HER OFF ME!!" Her legs kicked and fought something invisible to me, but clear to her.

I carefully placed my hand on her shoulder.

"WAKE UP, LEAFY!! WAKE UP!!"

"I'M BLEEDING-! IT STINGS...oh...I'm going to pass out."

She threw a punch at the air, defending herself from the figure in her nightmare.

"LEAFY!! PLEASE CALM YOURSELF AND WAKE UP!! I'M HERE!"

Her eyes suddenly opened in a flash as she shot up out of her sleep. She glanced at me, traumatized.

"OH, FIREY!" She went to hug me, but I backed away so she wouldn't burn.

Sobs broke out of her. "I never...ever...have had such a terrible nightmare." She trembled and looked down at her legs and arms with relief.

"My legs...they ache, but they're unwounded."

"My love..." I grabbed her shaking hands and patted her back.

"Wipe your tears, my dear."

She sniffled and lightly rubbed her eyes, erasing the previous sobs of worry.

"a-are there any wounds on my body...?" She asked in a worried tone.

"Not any at all!"

Wait...what's that yellow spot?

"Except..."

"EXCEPT WHAT-?" She became pale and lay back as if she was about to pass out.

"No! No! Nothing bad-!"

At least I don't think so?

Some color came back to her face. "What is it then? I don't want- *cough* to look-"

"It's just a little yellow spot! Shouldn't mean anything, right?"

Her pupils shrank. "Let me just-" She slipped around me and ran into her room, locking the door.

"Leafy, wait!" I ran to her door and knocked out of desperation, Apollo following behind me. "I-I didn't mean to worry you or make you feel insecure. It looks great on you-!"

I hope she's okay...was I too much?

"Am I overwhelming you, Leafy?" I knocked one more time.

"l-leave me alone-*sniffle*"

I wish I could comfort her with a hug...or a kiss.

I sighed. "Whatever works for you. I'll fix us up some soup, okay?

No reply. Just silent cries.

......................................................

Yellow spots...already? It's midsummer. It shouldn't be happening this early.

Worry corrupted each part of her mind. Nothing felt real. Not even the floor beneath her.

She glanced at herself in the mirror, teary-eyed. "Shit..."

She felt horrible saying that word. After all, she didn't like to curse.

"It's not very big, at least, but it's still concerning that it's this early."

Shake it off. It's nothing bad. Just a head start!

Leafy stood face forward at the mirror, checking each part of her skin to make sure there weren't any other spots.

"Phew...only one."

She suddenly felt sick to her stomach, causing her to drop to the floor.

"I-I need to lie back down."

She tried standing up again, but her legs refused the force. "Ugh..."

Her legs knelt as her hands dropped to the floor, throwing up all over the carpet.

She had overwhelmed herself.

"f-fuck..."

How did she go from having such an amazing date night to this? Was everything coming back to haunt her again?

"I-I need to clean this up..."

—————————————————-

I hope Leafy's doing alright in there...she's getting me worried.

"Leafy! Dinner's ready!"

No reply. Again.

"I don't want your soup to get cold!"

Silence.

I quickly walked to her bedroom door, knocking. "Hey, Leafy?"

"what...?" she replied.

"Soup's ready. You haven't eaten anything all day, so please come and sit with me."

"N-No thanks..."

Worry was taking over me. "Please...I'm worried, Leafy."

I tried opening the door again, but it was locked.

"I won't force you to eat, but will you at least unlock the door?"

"sure..." I heard her slowly drag herself across the floor and unlock the door.

"come in."

I twisted the knob and saw her with bloodshot eyes, flushed cheeks, and a saddened expression covering up her beautiful smile like clouds covering up the sun.

"Oh, my love. Please cheer up for me."

I kneeled and held her head up, making eye contact with her face-to-face.

"Whatever you are worried about, it'll be okay, trust me. I'll help youthrough this damn sickness no matter how much I have to do for you!"

"w-what if you catch it too?"

"If I do, I'll deal with it. I barely ever get sick anyway."

She smiled a bit and got up slowly as she held onto my hands for support. "Thanks, Firey. I love you so much."

"Love you too, Leafy."

"Oh, and I'm sorry for throwing up on the carpet. I cleaned it up though!"

My eyes widened. "YOU THREW UP AND DIDN'T TELL ME?!"

"ha...uh-you want to go eat?"

I shook it off. "You know what- sure."

She smiled and gripped tighter onto my hand. "We will enjoy this meal no matter how I feel. You've done so much for me today, it's the least I can do for you."

"Thanks, Leafy. You're the best."

"So are you. That's why I'm with you."

The windows reflected a dark and gloomy sky as we enjoyed our meal. The only light remaining in the room was the chemistry between us as we conversed with each other about Leafy's well-being.

The dinner was calm and understanding, and that's all I ever wanted.

.....................................................................................

UPDATES!- WOO! I'm so sorry for the long wait everybody. I struggled SO much with this chapter, but it's finally finished! I will admit that this is one of my least favorite chapters that I have written, but I tried my best. The next few will be even more eventful so stay tuned!

I am also annoucning that I have a new fireafy fic idea!! I've already started some drafts, and I'm in love with it so far! I will not spoil the main plot yet, but I will say it is for mature audiences because of its topic being heavily based around g0re.

It will be crazy, that's for sure! Anyways, thank you for being so patient with me. I appreciate you all SO much and I can't wait to see your takes on this! -TheNinjaFics <3

Chapter 17: The Storm.

An array of gray clouds covered the sun. The house shook as the thunder rumbled throughout the spirals of darkness in the sky.

Leafy's POV: I lay in bed staring at my phone, endlessly scrolling through photos.

They all look so happy with themselves.

Everybody looks so...perfect. Why can't I be like them?

A sudden loud thunder strike hit, causing my thoughts to escape my mind for a moment.

It's getting pretty bad out, huh?

I ignored it and continued scrolling until something caught my eye.

"Posted by Coiny: Remember the good'ol days? #Nostalgia #BFDI!"

Remember? Of course I do, and it still haunts me.

"Whatever..." , but I continued to look through them.

W-What.

"I-Is that...me and Firey?" Tears formed at the corners of my eyes, my phone screen suddenly becoming blurry. Stop it, Leafy. You're acting like a big baby. You're with him now, so why should this affect you?

Just scroll away. SCROLL AWAY!

I ignored what my mind told me and stared at it for a minute straight.

We looked happier and full of life. Stealing his prize was so...so stupid of me.

I threw my phone to the other side of the bed and groaned with frustration. Damn it, Leafy! Just let it go already. He forgave you, right?

Right?

I covered myself comfortably in the bed sheets, cycling thoughts through my mind.

What's the point of trying anymore?

Let the sickness take over you already.

Everything good that happens to you will only turn out horribly anyway.

"SHUT UP!" I unintentionally screamed out loud.

Oh no.

I heard sudden, quick footsteps in between the rumbles of thunder.

Knock knock.

"Leafy, Leafy! Are you okay?!" He panicked.

No. "Yeah, I'm- *cough* fine."

He slowly opened the door and stood at the end of my bed, concern flowing over his face.

"You look like you've been...crying."

"..."

"Come on, tell me. What's wrong?"

We just had an amazing conversation at dinner, and now I'm ruining it by being miserable again.

The house shook vigorously as wind and thunder began to worsen, the room becoming darker. Firey became tense and worried when he heard the thunder get stronger by the minute.

"It's nothing, Firey." It was everything.

"Please, Leafy. We just discussed this and-"

"I know, it's disappointing."

I'm such a disappointment.

His eyes widened. "Leafy, stop it! You aren't a disappointment for still feeling upset! Whatever it is, I'm sure it'll be okay and-"

"I'm sorry."

"What?" He stepped closer to my bed, his face full of worry.

"I shouldn't have stolen Dream Island! I'm sick of you pretending like it's fine when it's not! Why do you still love me after this, huh? Don't you wish you could have it back?! You had it all until I stole it because I was a petty asshole! HOW AM I STILL LOVEABLE, FIREY?" Waterfalls of tears poured out of my eyes, my hands unstable and shaky. My breath felt quickened and uncontrollable.

"LEAFY, CALM DOWN!" Firey was stressed, I can tell by the look on his face. His hand interlocked with mine as he gently rubbed my back with his other hand. "Shh...calm down, my love."

No words could escape from my mouth, only whimpers of sobs.

"What made you think of that again...? We've already discussed this, Leafy. I forgave you, and well, you forgave me. I promise you that I am not pretending!"

"..."

"If I were...why would I have asked to date you, hm? Or why would I have comforted you? Or taken you out on a date? Or proudly admitted how beautiful you are~?"

"*Sniffle* Y-You mean it-?"

His voice was gentle and softened, making me forget about the harsh weather outside.

"Why wouldn't I?" I looked up at him, showing off a gentle smile. His flame brought me warmth and comfort during the stormy night.

He cleared his throat, indicating he was about to speak gently again. "Between you and me...I think we've both improved ourselves since BFDI. I know I was immature, and I know you shouldn't have stolen the island. We both were in the wrong...and it was a stupid argument. I should be sorry for not letting you in over a Ferris wheel, and for distancing myself from you for so long. We've grown so much since then, though, and I hope you see that as much as I do."

I was shocked to hear him say these things. Years ago, he wouldn't even admit he was a jerk for not letting me into the island.

I squeezed his hand with strength, his face wincing in pain for a second. I brought it close to my face and kissed it gently, repeatedly. I nestled it against my wet cheek, feeling its gentle warmth spread across it.

Firey was bright red and unable to move from my affection. "A-Are you done yet?"

But I could tell he wanted more.

My tears were drying up from his warmth and gentle words. "Only if you want me to be~"

He couldn't help but giggle. "Oh, Leafy! I love you so much."

"Nah, I love you MORE!"

He put his soft hands back onto my red cheeks, his thumbs making light circles around them. He stared into my face lovingly, my cheeks burning up with the same brightness of his flame on this stormy night.

I wish I could cuddle with him...give him a gentle peck on the lips...or hold his precious, warm face in my hands.

"Have I ever told you how handsome you are?"

"Have I ever told you how beautiful you are?"

"Uh, yes. Many times..."

He giggled. "It's the truth, though!"

Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Apollo ran in, panicked. Firey removed his hands from my face and knelt, transferring the warmth of his hands from my face to Apollo's.

"What's wrong, buddy? Scared of thunder? So am I..ha."

He's scared of it? Is that why he was so tense earlier?

"Firey...are you okay?"

He turned my head and stared at me blankly, looking shocked at my question. "I'm okay...why are you asking such a silly question?"

"I know thunder can be scary. I just want to make sure it isn't affecting you too much or-"

"FINE! I'M SCARED, LEAFY!! I'M SCARED SHITLESS!! I HATE THUNDER-!" He began to tremble at his confession.

Apollo backed away from Firey, his ears flattening in fear.

Firey smacked himself in the face. "Oh, I'm sorry, Apollo! I know the thunder is probably already hurting your sensitive ears enough..."

I weakly got up out of bed, my legs trembling. I held Apollo close and hugged him tightly, his ears perking up.

"It's okay, baby. Everything will be- *cough* okay. I got you." Images of Yoyleland popped into my head, causing my head to ache with a sudden sharp pain.

"ow...ow." I held my hands to my head, sudden thunder making the headache grow.

"Leafy-? What's wrong?!" Firey went back to being stressed and tense.

"Headache," I replied weakly.

"Here, let me help you up." He gave me his hand and I gripped onto it with all the strength that was left. I slowly got up, my legs like weak twigs about to snap from the wind blows.

"Little steps at a time..."

I gently lay back down and closed my eyes, which were stinging from crying so much.

"Too much at once, ay? Let me get you your sleep medicine." He walked off, Apollo following him.

The room grew darker without his eminence of light surrounding me. The storm strengthened as I grew weaker.

My head felt like somebody had hit me with a brick. I couldn't focus on what was in front of me, only on how much I was hurting.

I picked up my phone, which was still faced down on the bed, and saw an unexpected text from Gelatin.

"Hey, I hope you're doing alright."

How'd he even get my number? Maybe Firey gave it to him-?

Firey suddenly returned holding my medicine and a bottle of water.

I sat up slowly.

"Here, my love. It says to take two pills." He unscrewed the bottle and poured the pills into my cupped hand.

He gently placed a water bottle from the fridge next to me, the cold outside rubbing up against my leg. I put both pills in my dry mouth and chugged the water bottle until it was halfway empty.

"Thanks, Firey."

He smiled and patted me on the knee. "No problem. See you in the morning?"

"Sure...but, can you please let Apollo sleep in your room tonight? I don't want him to be scared and-"

"Of course. I know you worry about him."

I do. I love him so much. He was the only one who accepted me quickly after I did something terrible...again.

"Ha...yeah." I smiled and gave Firey a gentle peck on the hand.

"Goodnight, Firey."

"Goodnight, Leafy."

His bright light left the room, the darkness of the storm worsening. Sudden emptiness hit me, wishing Firey was here rubbing my face again.

I picked up my phone to distract myself from everything that hurt.

Oh right. The text from Gelatin.

"Hey, thanks for checking in with me! I'm doing just fine :)"

I clicked send and placed the phone down, waiting for another ping.

In all honesty, Gelatin grew on me. I disliked his immaturity at first, but I can see why Firey likes him so much. He actually seems to care, despite being dimwitted.

Sudden heavy rain snapped me out of it. It was a good thing that we were finally getting some rain, though. After all, there has been no rain in over a month.

*Ding!*

Oh, another text.

"Glad to hear that! You know, Firey was really worried about you."

I replied, "I know, haha. He's too much, but I love him for that."

"I'm glad you guys could at least make up! But anyways, I 'd better head to bed before the storm worsens and I can't sleep at all, lol."

I replied, "Me too, but yeah, I probably should as well. My head is killing me :,)"

"Well, I hope it feels better!"

I replied, "Thanks! :D Have a good night!"

"You too, Leafster!"

I placed my phone on the dresser and called it a night. The sounds of rain hitting the roof soothed me as I closed my eyes. I surprisingly enjoyed the echoing rumbles the thunder made. I think of it as nature's way of expressing anger and frustration.

My pains were soon taken away as I fell asleep in only a few minutes.

Nightmare 3:

Where am I-?! Am I back in the same damn nightmare again?

"I've already done this so many times. Show yourself."

Nothing.

"Just show yourself before I make you."

My body felt heavy. Almost as if a weight was pulling me down. A familiar cold handle was gripped in my hand, which felt blistered and scratched up.

I looked down at myself to see a knife in my hand and a metal shell covering every part of my body. I suddenly felt uncomfortable with myself.

"I don't want to look...please." I shut my eyes tightly, trying to rid the thought of my past.

I tried to drop the knife, but it wouldn't budge from my grip.

Then, a mirror was dropped in front of me.

"STOP THIS!" Something had pulled my hands away from my face, forcing me to look into the mirror.

But the reflection wasn't me. It was him. Firey.

"F-Firey? What are you-"

He shook his head in disapproval. "Going back to your old roots, huh? This is a new low for you, Leafy."

"Old roots...? Firey, I haven't changed since I became better, I-"

"Fake. Everything you say and do is fake."

"What-?" What was he talking about?!

"Come to realize that I never forgave you. Realize you're a monster. A fraud, even. Nobody wants you around because you aren't trustworthy..."

"Stop it. This...This isn't the real Firey."

"Stop lying to yourself. It is real. I am real."

Then I did it. I threw my knife at the mirror, causing a wide crack to spread across the glass.

Firey's face suddenly looked different, confusing me heavily. His eyes were wide open, and his expression was blank.

"Firey...?"

I heard his neck crack, and suddenly a tall, red figure billowed over me, causing me to fall back.

"I knew it...I just k-"

Chokehold. Can't breathe. CAN'T BREATHE!

I squirmed uncontrollably, trying to break free of the giant shadow's grasp, only to suffer with more pain.

"p...please."

The tall shadow threw me to the ground, my face bruised and bleeding. My neck felt raw and fragile. I was unable to move it properly.

Then, I felt the ground beneath me break, causing my heart to skip a beat.

"w-what?"

A widespread hole of water appeared beneath me, my body plunging into the water as fast as lightning.

I knew how to swim, but the metal made it extremely difficult. I began to be pulled deeper into the murky water, causing me to sink.

I pushed myself up, but too much water got into my mouth, causing my chest to become heavy. My lungs felt drained and useless, my legs still weak, and my raw neck and face wounds stinged from the salt water.

I went to speak, but nothing came out. Just bubbles.

And there I was. Limp and lifeless underwater.

———————————————————

Firey's POV: Sleep. It was difficult for me. Too much rambled in my mind. Whether it was good or bad, I couldn't sleep. It takes as long as it takes a kid on Christmas Eve to fall asleep, which is a while.

Tonight, it was especially difficult. The thunder knocked on my windows like it was trying to be let in. The house felt unstable, and the trees begged for mercy with each gust of wind.

On top of that, I worried about Leafy. Every time I closed my eyes, all I saw was her teary eyes in need of a hug, but I couldn't.

Sometimes I wish I weren't made of fire.

Leafy had already gone through enough. Why is the world so against her? Nobody could ever know.

Her nightmares...the way she describes them. Shivers.

How could she deal with that almost every night? I mean- I have sleep paralysis, but not to that extent.

She's strong for holding through for so long, I could never deal with that fear every night.

Heck, I can't even deal with the loud storm outside right now.

My anxiety rolled in like the darkened clouds. I felt tense, shaken, and uncomfortable.

Suddenly, Apollo made a quiet "Yip!" and sat on my fireproof sheets, bringing a slight smile to my face.

"I know I'm pathetic for being this scared of a storm, Apollo..." I whispered.

He poked his head under the covers and repeatedly licked my leg, sending shivers down my spine.

"Haha, stop it!" I cried quietly.

Apollo jumped and went to the end of my bed, making the mattress sink.

"AWO!"

"Apollo, shhhh-!"

I hope that didn't wake Leafy up. After all, she is sick.

The storm grew vicious. The winds howled just like Apollo, and I heard a big "BANG!" from the clouds.

Lightning strike.

Apollo whimpered in fear, his body language similar to mine. He shook and looked around.

"It's okay, buddy. It'll end in a bit...hopefully."

Hopefully. I need rest.

The rain became heavier, my heart dropping at the thought of it.

If the storm were to damage the house, I'd be dead. The rain would extinguish me nto nothing.

I sighed and looked down at my trembling hands, uncertain of my current state. "I need comfort."

I can't wake her up, though!

Remain calm. The storm isn't hurting you, is it?

It could potentially hurt me.

I gently stroked the top of Apollo's soft head, every fur patch making my hand feel warm.

"At least I have you, right?" I whispered, knowing that I was reassuring myself.

——————————————————

Back to Leafy!!

My eyes opened wide, my stomach pinching with unknown pains.

Blood. Bruises. Weakness. Pain. Can't breathe. CAN'T BREATHE!

I weakly sat up and controlled my breaths.

You've got this, Leafy. You don't need his help. Let him sleep.

I got out of bed and stood up, my legs wobbly and unstable.

I needed more water.

I didn't want to wake him or Apollo up, especially during this never-ending storm.

Firey seemed genuinely terrified of the thunderstorm, and it made me feel bad for him. I don't know why, but it did.

The door slowly opened, creaking as another thunder strike hit.

I wobbled my way out the door and towards the kitchen, my feet dragging as if I were a zombie.

Just grab the water. It'll all be fine!

I made it into the kitchen and turned on the lights.

But there was one problem. The power went out.

"Should've known...," I whispered silently to myself.

I slowly crept around, sticking my arm out and squinting my eyes to make sense of my surroundings.

Counter there. Cabinet here. Fridge handle, here!

I flung the refrigerator door open and grabbed a fresh, crisp water bottle.

The coolness around my fingers satisfied me in some way, even if I preferred holding something warmer.

I closed the fridge, causing each item inside to make a subtle noise.

"I did it!" I cheered quietly to myself.

Then I heard it. Footsteps.

CRAP!

I became overwhelmed, and my body wouldn't move, no matter how hard I tried.

A bright, orange light cleared up my surroundings. Everything looked familiar and full of color once more, and the power being out was no longer an issue.

"Need a light? Haha!"

Why was he wide awake?

"Did I wake you? I'm sorry- I tried to be quiet." I said tiredly.

"No, you didn't wake me! I actually...haven't slept yet."

What? It was already 3:25 AM!

"Firey...please get some rest." I grabbed his hand and stroked it gently, his blush lighting up the darkness even more.

"Why are you up, anyway?"

I looked down at the shiny floor. "I needed a water bottle, haha." I was so awkward.

I added to the conversation. "No, but seriously, Firey. Don't worry about me. YOU need rest."

He sighed and looked in the opposite direction, his eyes avoiding mine. "I can't-! The storm..."

Did it bother him that badly?.

"Hey...you want me to stay in your room tonight?"

His face burned up into a cherry red color.

"N-No! I couldn't!! You're sick and you need rest-"

My eyes drooped with tiredness. "Hand me a Yoyleberry, Fireman."

His eyes glistened as he ran to the bowl of fruits on the table to fetch some leftover Yoyleberries.

"Eat up!"

I winced and shoved it into my mouth, each chew reminding me of my past.

Knives. Survival. Chase. Wolves.

"Leafy...?"

I snapped out of my trance and made eye contact with him. "Oh, sorry."

He shook it off and stared at my metal body, his smile growing in size.

"Let's just- go."

——————————————————

Warm bed, calm rain, beautiful lighting, and a tight cuddle. That's all I needed, and I had it.

He rested next to me while Apollo lay comfortably beside the bed. Firey's head rested beside mine, his arms wrapped around my metal shell, making me feel comfortable in my different body.

He latched onto me like a scared child. I couldn't tell if he was still terrified of the storm or just loved me.

"Firey...?" I whispered.

He looked up at me with tired eyes. "What is it, my love? Do you need your pain meds?"

"Oh, no. Thanks for asking, though. I just wanted to see if you were still awake, ha."

He jerked a loving smile. "I'm close to falling asleep. The storm finally stopped messin' with me...ha."

"I knew it would calm down, Firey. Now we have a peaceful moment together, right?"

He started to doze off, his eyes losing sight of mine. "R...Right."

"Goodnight, Firey." I turned to my side, his arms still gripping onto my waist.

"Goodnight, Leafy. I love you..." His eyes closed tightly, and he had finally fallen into a deep sleep.

I stared at his handsome face as he slept. His eyes no longer looked exhausted, but at peace.

The clock ticked to his breaths.

3:55 AM.

"I should try to sleep, shouldn't I?"

The warmth of his body shielded me in comfort. I couldn't stop thinking about how nice his hugs feel...or the way he cuddled me.

I love cuddling him, even though I hate being in this metal body.

I'd do anything for him, though. I don't care what I need to do to cuddle with him, I just want it.

He makes me feel so...amazing about myself. Sure, we have our ups and downs, but I don't think I could go a day without seeing him...or him telling me how much he loves me.

I love him more than the moon loves the night. I love him more than the birds love their song. I love him more than peanut butter loves jelly. I love him so much. Words cannot describe the feelings deep inside me.

I gripped his curled-up hand with a tight squeeze of love. "I love you, Firey," I whispered.

I knew he couldn't hear me, but I wanted to say it anyway.

He deserves what I can give him, after all, he treats me better than anybody ever has.

I may be sick, but no amount of sickness can take the feeling of love away from me.

"I'll get better for you, Firey. I promise."

I kissed him on the hand and cuddled him closer, my body becoming even warmer than before.

My eyes slowly closed once more, drifting me apart from the visual presence of his love.

But even if I didn't visibly see it, I could still feel it in my heart.

The nightmares stopped for the night and the world felt...meaningful. I wanted to sleep next to him forever. I truly do love him.

The flame remains lit, and nothing can blow it out.

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

WOOHOO! Another chapter finished! I'm not going to lie, this one was filler :')

I enjoyed writing it, though! Sometimes I just need to back away from the sad stuff and make it cute :D

The next chapter will be a pretty long one, so hopefully it doesn't take me too long, ha. It will defintely be important to the story so stay tuned! Thank you so much again for making it this far! I appreicate every single reader :) This means a lot to me, seriously^^

Chapter 18: Life's Full Of Surprises.

Summary:

Birthday.

Leafy's POV:

My eyes opened slowly. The sun was blaring through the window, hitting me in the face.

Oh. The storm's over!

The clock read 11 AM. Gosh, we never slept this late!

In fact, Firey was still snoring away, his flame growing in size with each suck of air. His grip around my waist wasn't as tight anymore, but his arms still lingered around it.

I lightly pulled his arms away and got up out of bed quietly.

The sheets rustled as Firey woke up.

Crap!

His eyes slowly adjusted to the sun's light. "L-Leafy...?"

"Well, good morning, sleepyhead!"

"Ha...uh- what time is it?"

"It's 11 AM! We both got up late- ha."

He cutely rubbed his eyes and got up out of bed, his feet dragging tiredly along the floor.

"I hope you slept well afterwards." He pulled me in and kissed my dry lips, my eyes widening in shock.

"O-Oh gee, Firey...! I-" I became tense, flustered, and uncertain. I know we've been dating for a while now, but a kiss on the lips still felt iffy to me, even if I loved it.

"You...okay?"

"I'm...fine. I'm excellent, actually." My bright smile appeared like the sun's presence after the storm. I grabbed his hand, warmth shooting through mine.

"I love you, Firey."

"I love you too, Leafy."

———————————————————-

Firey's POV: Leafy rested on the couch, no longer in her metal-like shell. She had eaten a whole yellow tomato to rid the side effects of the tart Yoyleberry.

The only part that sucked about that was the fact that we couldn't cuddle again tonight, but she seemed uncomfortable in the metal that shielded her green, so I didn't mind.

"Did you eat yet, Leafy?"

"I had a little yogurt cup in the fridge. I'm not that hungry."

Still not hungry? It's been about 3 days, she should've at least been a little hungry by now!

"Okay, did you take your med-"

"Yes, Firey. I did. I took care of myself." She moved uncomfortably under the blanket. She was cold, but hot at the same time.

"Alright. If you need anything, please let me know. I'm going to be running some errands today...for something." I was holding a bag full of party invitations, but she didn't know what was inside.

"Oh...do you need any help?" She kindly offered.

"No, no, no. You rest, okay? Besides, you wouldn't want to be sick on your birthday!"

She became startled by the mention of her birthday. I could tell by the look in her eyes.

"B-Birthday?"

Did I get the date wrong?! "Yeah! Your birthday is this Friday...right?"

"I haven't heard someone mention my birthday in years. I would've thought you had forgotten after all this time..."

"I will never forget! You're special to me, Leafy!"

She cleared her throat, shoving her shock to the side. "I hope I'm not sick for my birthday either. I've honestly lost track of time, so I didn't even realize it was so close."

"Well, now you know! Trust me, this will be special!"

She stretched her weakened legs during our conversation, making little noises each time a movement caused her discomfort. "Firey, please don't do too much for me. You know how I am."

She'll be okay with a couple of close friends coming over, right?

"It won't be too much, I promise! It'll be fun!" I smiled at her, waiting for her to give me one back. I always loved it when she smiled, even if it was a little awkward at times.

At least she learned how to smile more softly.

She smiled back at me (YES!) and straightened herself back into a comfortable position.

I saw the discomfort she was in, and it made me feel sorry for her.

"To make you feel better, maybe you should step outside and play with Apollo! He'd love that, haha!"

Apollo's ears perked up at the mention, and he quickly ran to the back door, waiting for Leafy to get up and open it.

"Oh, fine! Maybe I should, but I can't do anything too strenuous."

Apollo spun around in circles as Leafy slowly got up from the couch, her legs trembling with aching pain.

The way she walked broke my heart. I really hope this goes away soon. I walked as close as I could to her and reached my hand out, waiting for her to grip it tightly.

She grabbed on tightly, her hands colder than usual. "This is embarrassing...", she whispered to herself.

It wasn't, but I didn't want to say anything.

We made it to the door, where Apollo spun around like a carnival ride. "GRR-YIP! YIP!"

"Alright, Alright!" I opened up the door, and Apollo sprinted outside and rolled on the overgrown grass. He took in the sun's rays of warmth while waiting for Leafy to approach him.

"You need me to walk you outside?"

"No, I'm *cough* good. Thank you." She kissed the top of my hand and slowly made her way towards the spot Apollo was lying in.

"Do what you have to do, Firey. I'm- *cough*...fine."

"Okay...I trust you." I waved goodbye to her and went out the back gate. She waved back with a huge, loving smile plastered on her face.

Now it was time to send out invitations.

Gelatin.

...Coiny.

Pin.

Needle.

Teardrop.

Woody.

Flower...I guess.

Fries.

Rocky.

Is that it...? I guess so!

To be honest, I wasn't very...uh- confident in this list, but I couldn't really think of anyone who was necessarily on "good terms" with Leafy. So I decided to invite those I knew wouldn't mind seeing her again. After all, they have to know she changed, right?

Eh...just stick to your plan, Firey.

I waltzed my way towards the post office with the invitations I had in the bag, awaiting the moment I sent them out.

I hope they're able to make it.

This is my chance to get everyone to trust her again-!

——————————————————

A moment with Leafy and Apollo.

The sky had finally shown its true happiness. There was no longer a presence of anger or hatred, just a bright, happy moment.

I sat in the lush grass as it gently brushed against my sore leg. I carefully watched Apollo run around the yard, making sure he didn't escape somehow.

If he did, he'd be a lost cause, and so would I. I can't run. Well, at least right now.

I still can't run well when my legs aren't sore...whoops.

Apollo reminded me so much of a dog, I always forgot he was a wolf. What sort of wolf acts like this-?

"Apollo, are you secretly a dog?" I joked around.

He sprinted towards me so fast that I had to move out of the way before he toppled over me. "Hey, watch it! I don't need another injury, haha!"

Apollo brushed his textured tongue across my cheek, which tickled...a lot.

"HAHA, STOP! APOLLO-!! PFFT-" I couldn't stop laughing, even though it burned my throat and caused me to cough up like a child.

"APO- *cough* APOLLO!!"

"GRR-UP!" He finally decided to free me from my "torturous" tickle attack. In the process, he accidentally stepped on my leg.

"OW-!"

Apollo sprang off me and noticed I was in discomfort. He poked his nose at my kneecap, curious about what had just happened.

"I'm okay, Apollo. Just- please, back away from my legs."

My legs felt as if the twigs had finally snapped.

Apollo backed away in shame, his head sulking down. "mmrp-!"

"Oh no no no, it's okay! Come here, baby."

I adjusted my sitting position and patted the grass beneath me, awaiting Apollo's return.

He backed up further, still ashamed of his selfless action.

"I promise you, I'm okay." I flexed a welcoming smile, hoping he'd trust my forgiveness.

"Grr-up!" He weakly shuffled his feet back towards me, limping slowly. It reminded me of how baby deer walk when they are first born.

"Why are you limping again, baby?"

I carefully adjusted my body, making sure I didn't add to the aches and pains, and redirected my attention to the leg where I had stabbed him months ago.

"I don't see anything, only the healed wound from then..."

I gently rubbed his limping leg, trying to soothe it. "What's wrong?"

I wish he could tell me what was wrong, but I obviously can't understand animals like the average person.

If I could have any power, it would be to have the ability to communicate with animals.

"You were fine a minute ago."

I stroked his fur, which was warmer than ever before from being out in the sun.

"Apollo...how come you don't act like a wolf, hm?"

"Yip!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at the noises he makes. They gave me some laughter from time to time.

I leaned further back into the long, green grass, each strand brushing up against my sore body. "Lay down, Apollo."

This moment felt like the night Firey confessed his love to me...the moon's luminosity shining above us as we spoke of our feelings for each other.

How I wish I could relive that moment.

The grass felt the same as it did that night, but the atmosphere was much more humdrum.

It was just a plain ol' day. Nothing to do but lie around in the grass thinking about what was to come next, or what had already happened.

The flowers had grown more, but lost their variety in color due to receiving too much sunlight.

I wonder how the flowers feel knowing that the thing that helps them grow can also hurt them.

Things that help you grow can hurt you...?

I've never thought about that before.

The flowers that have already been defeated in a match against the sun reminded me of myself in the very state I am in right now.

Their color was dulled to a crisp, brown hue, familiar to that of a darkened potato chip.

My color was being dulled by an unknown factor. I was becoming more yellow each week, which stirred up concern, knowing it was way too early for it to be happening to me now.

There's about a month until Summer ends.

I don't know why I'm overanalyzing everything right now; my brain has been erratic, especially with this sickness grabbing onto me.

It felt like I was a leaf in the fall wind, being dragged along a path of unfamiliarity.

I fear I'll be taken away from this place we call Earth, just like the wind does to a leaf like me. What if I...die?

No, no, no. I won't die. I'll be okay...right?

Quit overthinking, Leafy! Focus on the positives, like your birthday coming up!

Oh, yeah. My birthday.

To know that Firey remembered felt comforting. I wish he had dropped off a letter for me in Yoyleland when the day hit. Each passing year, I waited to see if ANYBODY, or anything, would want to celebrate with me.

But all I had was a dirt cake with Yoyleberries on top instead of candles.

And no, this wasn't your typical dirt cake. It was literally actual dirt. Appetizing, right?

I snapped back to reality when a sudden buzz of a bee interrupted my thoughts.

"Oh, hello, little bee!" It kept flying around us, Apollo's ears perking up at the sound of the buzzing.

When the bumblebee got close to Apollo, he snapped at it, trying to catch it in his mouth.

"You're lucky bumblebees are nice, Apollo!"

The bee quickly buzzed off and headed its way toward Firey's overgrown garden, searching for the perfect flower to get nectar from.

Come to think of it, I really should clean up this garden for him. I know he can't really do it himself because he worries he'll burn it all down.

The only time he goes outside is when I'm outside, and the only thing he can do is stand there or sit down lightly on the grass, but even then, the grass gets burnt a little.

"It's getting hot out here, Apollo. Are you ready to go inside?"

I take a glance at Apollo, remembering once again that he is no dog, but a wolf.

"...Are you happy here, Apollo?"

He cocks his head to the side, looking at me like I have two heads.

"Do you ever miss your pack?"

I'm acting as if the damn wolf can reply to me.

Whatever. I feel like crap, and I need to lie back down before I get too dizzy to get up.

———————————————————-

The day of the party.

Firey's POV: I'm rushing around the house while Leafy is resting soundly in her bedroom. The party was today, and I wasn't about to make it lame.

I put up the banner I bought from the party store with Gelatin. Its vibrant colors represented Leafy's bright personality, which I liked a lot.

"Okay...everybody accepted the invites, cool", I whispered to myself, trying not to wake Leafy up.

Each guest was asked to bring something to the party.

I wasn't sure about Fries, though, because when I asked him, all he said was, "Whatever."

Gelatin is a HUGE party person. He's great at socializing, he's a jokester, and he knows how to start a good party game.

That's why he's the perfect guest (and best bud, of course.)

Making this a surprise party made things a little bit stressful for me, but it's no big deal.

We are going to go on a walk in the park, but afterwards, I'm taking her to a "restaurant" blindfolded.

My ideas are too good.

The house was slightly decorated. Only the banner and my gifts were set out, nothing else.

Coiny and Pin are coming to finish up the main decorating later when we are at the park.

I can't wait to see her reaction!! I'm happy she told me she felt much better today, and she looked less sluggish!

Life's going as it should for once today, and I like it.

I suddenly hear a door creak open, Leafy emerging from the hall.

"Sorry for falling asleep. I wanted to get some rest before we go to dinner tonight!" She was enthusiastic, but sad at the same time.

"Leafy, don't apologize! You were tired."

"Yeah...well, you know. It's that damn lingering cough at night."

"You sure you're alright to celebrate today...?"

Her eyes wandered around as she spoke to me, noticing the bright banner that was hanging up.

"I'm sure!"

"Okay, I'm just making sure." I grabbed her hand and gave it a gentle peck, her smile wide like the banner.

"Save the hand kisses for later!" She teased.

I giggle through my flusteredness. I loved the way she joked while being loving at the same time.

"Oh, but you know you want more hand kisses from this flaming-hot package of love~"

"Oh, you are so cringe, Firey..." She placed her hand over her mouth, mumbling under her breath. "...maybe."

She instantly burst out into laughter afterwards, causing her to cough uncontrollably until it stopped.

"Okay, okay!" She wipes away her tears. "Time to put on my dress!"

She half limped and half ran back to her bedroom, eagerly wanting to put on her beautiful yellow dress.

She'll look perfect.

I waited patiently for Leafy to come out of her room. It had been longer than expected, but that's okay. As long as she's happy with how she looks, it doesn't matter to me.

I take out my phone and turn on the camera, moving it around to check out every angle of myself.

I wore a tie this time around, since I didn't want to wear the same bow tie every time.

"I think I'm fine...", I whispered to myself.

"I'm ready, Firey!" She came out with a broad smile on her face.

"I hope I didn't overdress myself..."

She wore the same yellow dress with ruffles and flowers, but for some reason, it looked prettier than before.

I looked back up at her face to see her lashes primed and a hint of pink blush around her cheeks.

"Is it getting hot in here or is it just me...?" I laughed at my own pun, Leafy's eyes narrowing in shame.

"Anddddd there you go saying another cringey joke." She still laughed, although it made her cringe.

"Hey, come on! You know I'm always on FIRE with these jokes!"

She continued to laugh at me. I wasn't sure if it was because she was shaming me for how cringe it was, or because of how funny it was. "Man, look what hanging out with Gelatin's done to you!"

I laughed with her, joy expressed on both of our faces. "Alright, alright- I'll stop!"

"I...appreciate you thinking I look nice, though. You look nice too."

"O-Oh, it's no problem, Leafy! You're my girlfriend after all..." I gazed upon her lovingly, unable to control the feeling inside me. I want to kiss her again. Just once...or twice...or more.

"You're looking pretty blue, Firey!"

My mind's daydreams were suddenly turned off by a light switch, my thoughts shifting back to where I originally was. "Ha...sorry."

Do I really turn blue when I'm blushing? I always forget that.

Oh, and I am also forgetting that I need to bring a blindfold.

"I just need to grab one more thing before we go!"

"Oh, okay!" She elegantly crossed her arms in front of her, waiting patiently.

I grabbed the long, red blindfold from the desk in my room and stuck it in the same bag I had previously placed the invitations in.

"Okay, I'm ready now!"

Leafy glanced at the bag, suspiciously.

"What's in the bag...?"

I tense up, not knowing what to say. "Oh! It's uh...a surprise!"

"Gotcha!" She reached out her hand for me to take.

I tightened my grip around her weakened hands and walked alongside her, anticipating the moment we made it to the park.

We left the house, full of love and laughter.

"Oh gosh, Firey! I'm so excited to celebrate my birthday today...just the two of us."

She doesn't suspect a thing!

"Haha, me too! I'm glad I was able to afford it all!"

"Remembering and being here is a gift to me." She intertwined her fingers with mine, the grip of our hands somehow becoming tighter. "Thank you for taking me out, Fireball."

I forgot how to respond for a moment, my eyes focused on the love between our hands. How did a simple grip of the hand make me feel like this?

"It's no problem, Leafy. I want to see you happy...full of light and warmth...like you always are."

Her expression softened as she admiringly stared at my face, not saying a word back.

But I could tell she appreciated my words.

"We're here, Leafy!" I carefully walked her through the open gate, holding her hand. Her face brightened at the beauty of the park.

The lush, green trees swayed back and forth as they danced in the wind. A flower garden surrounded a lake with swans and ducks, who floated around their territory. The flowers flourished with pink blossoms, their healthiness showing off to the swans and ducks in the lake.

"Wow, Firey-! I've never been here before...it's-"

"Beautiful, right?"

"...Very. The flowers are so gorgeous...I'm speechless."

Leafy's love for nature always made me feel warm inside. And no, it wasn't because I'm a hot flame. It genuinely made me feel...different.

"You came from a place like this, didn't you? You're as beautiful as what's surrounding us."

Her happiness toned down for a moment, her eyes darting to the yellow splotch on her side. "I guess so...I came from a lemon tree, though. It's nothing as gorgeous as this."

I grew curious. I'm not going to lie, I'd love to see a lemon tree in person one day. "Have you ever seen a lemon tree around here?"

She rubbed the yellow area on her side, seeming bothered by its sudden presence.

"...No." She removed her grip from my hand and weakly walked towards the flower bush next to her, inspecting its color pattern.

"Oh, hi, little caterpillar!" She stuck out her finger, awaiting the moment when it would finally inch onto it.

I guess she didn't like discussing anything about lemon trees. Good to know.

"Aww, it's so cute!" In all honesty, I was terrified of insects, but this guy was pretty cute.

She chuckled. "Caterpillars are such innocent creatures. That's why I love them."

She's so adorable. "They really are. That's why I don't really fear them, unlike other insects."

She kept an eye on the caterpillar, making sure she wouldn't lose sight of it. "You're afraid of them? Why?"

I don't really have an answer...I guess I'm just like that. "I...don't really know."

"That's okay-!" She suddenly gasped and smiled brightly as the caterpillar finally landed on her finger.

"FIREY, LOOK-!" Her excitement made its way around the park's atmosphere.

"It's on your finger!" I chuckled as I watched her stare at it in admiration.

"It's so precious...how could anybody hate these things?"

Her admiration of the green caterpillar made me blush again. She has such a big heart, even for the simplest things, such as a little insect.

"Did you know caterpillars can sense the color of their surroundings with not just their eyes, but with their skin? Cool, right?!"

How did she know that?

"Wow, you really like caterpillars, don't you?"

Her eye contact was still hyper-focused on the innocent insect. "Hehe, yeah."

She let it move around for another minute or so until she finally said goodbye.

"Oh, man. I probably should let it get back to its natural habitat. It's probably wondering why a big ol' leaf like me is staring it down!"

Wait...don't caterpillars eat leaves?

"Good thing this type of caterpillar doesn't eat lemon leaves, haha!"

Oh. She read my mind.

Her smile softened as she put her finger closer to the plant, waiting for the caterpillar to get off.

"You got it, little buddy, come on", she said, gently.

It finally inched off her finger and back onto the plant's little leaf. The green color of its body matched its surroundings.

"I can't wait to see you when you're a beautiful butterfly!"

She said another goodbye and skipped her way closer to the lake, wanting me to follow.

"Come on, Firey! Let's look at the swans!!"

I think she's enjoying this more than she'll enjoy the party!

"Coming!" I shouted.

Leafy stared at the swans, knowing not to bother them. "Don't let the swans fool you, Firey. They are very territorial..."

"Haha, I'm aware, don't worry."

"Swans are so pretty...yet, so ugly on the inside."

I liked the way she spoke about nature. Always knowing a way to put a lesson into it, or describing it in a way nobody else has.

"Yeah...I never really thought about that. It's a shame because they truly are so beautiful."

"That's why you can never trust somebody until you fully get to know them." Her voice no longer sounded enthusiastic, but more cold and monotone.

There was a silence between us, only the sounds of nature being heard. The wind played jokes on us with its mix of light and heavy blows.

"Sorry...I got a little too into my head there."

Who was she referring to?

"I don't mind, Leafy! It's...interesting how you talk."

Her pupils widened. "R-Really?"

"Yeah! Now come on, let's walk around a little more before our reservation."

"Alright, but first, I need to sit down for a second. I'm feeling a little dizzy."

I completely forgot about her still being ill. She was acting so...full of life for the first time in a week. It made me believe she was fully healed from the sickness's grasp.

"Yes, of course. Here, grab onto my hand again so you remain steady."

She intertwined her hand with mine, and a sudden comfort was brought back to me.

This will be a good night.

——————————————————-

"Pin!! The guests will be coming any minute now! We have to get this all set up!"

Pin sat on the couch, texting somebody unknown on her phone. "Oh, right." She quickly placed it down and trotted towards Coiny, who was struggling with the way the party table looked.

"Why does the tablecloth look like that...?" He scratched his head in confusion, unable to recognize what he had done wrong.

"Coiny...really?" Pin was amused by his stupidity.

"What...?" He still couldn't wrap his head around it.

"You put it upside down..." She walked past him and flipped the tablecloth around, a sudden wave of relief washing over him.

"Ohhhh...right."

Pin sighed. "I don't know why Firey asked us to do this!"

"I mean, we are close to him. Maybe he trusted us more?"

"I'm surprised he picked you of all people. Why not Gelatin?"

Coiny rubbed his temples and thought about it for a second. "I dunno."

"Ugh. Please call up Needle to come earlier or something! She's tall and she knows Firey well!"

"What, no! We've got this, Pin!! Besides, we only have a few more things to do."

"Coiny...you really think we can get this all up by ourselves in the span of twenty minutes-?!"

He suddenly grabbed onto her hand, causing Pin to become all flustered.

"There isn't anything we can't do together, Pin! We are the power duo! If we can compete in challenges together, then why can't we do something as simple as this together?!"

Coiny's sudden words of encouragement caused Pin's mood to shift. She wasn't really in the best mood because she didn't really want to see Leafy again, despite forgiving her.

"You're right. Let's do this."

Twenty minutes pass by, and the house is just about done!

"Oh, Coiny!! The guests will be here any second now! We haven't finished the balloons!!" Pin was oozing beads of green, indicating she was nervous.

"Hey, it's okay!! Knowing the guests, they probably won't be here until the last minute! And besides, Firey comes around 7. It's only 6:25!"

"You're right...I need to calm down." Coiny placed his hand around her, giving her a gentle squeeze.

Pin grabs a pink balloon and begins blowing into it, her face becoming pale after doing it for too long. "Cmon, balloon! Fill up!"

Coiny blows into a yellow one repeatedly until it fills up, tying it quickly before any air slips out.

Knock knock. "Shoot!! Somebody's here already!" Pin exclaimed, out of breath.

"I got it, Pin. Just continue doing what you're doing."

Coiny opens the door to see Flower, all dolled up.

"Oh. Didn't expect you to answer the door." She swayed her way into the house, analyzing the decorations. "This looks way better than I expected!"

Coiny was shocked by her compliment.

"Haha...thanks." He closed the door behind him and walked back to the living room to check on Pin. She had three more balloons to blow up before she was finally done.

"I can do the last-"

"No! I got it..." Pin was frustrated, but appreciated his offer anyway.

Flower interrupted Coiny and Pin's conversation. "Where is everybody...? Am I that early?"

"Oh, no. Firey invited a bunch of idiots, so I expect them all to be late", Coiny said with a rude tone.

Flower's eyes widened. "Are you calling me an idiot?"

"What-? No! I didn't mean it like that..."

But he kinda did.

"Well, everybody better hurry up because this is a surprise party, right?" Flower's tone became sassier than before.

"Yeah...it is." Coiny was already exhausted, and the party hadn't even started yet.

"Why is there a dog here-? I don't remember Firey having one."

Coiny was fed up with Flower's questions. "Just leave him be, he's friendly."

He didn't tell her he was a wolf because he didn't want her to make a huge fuss over it.

"Oh, okay. Anyways, I brought fancy custom party hats, so you better like them." Flower slammed the bag onto the counter and pulled out a pink, sparkly cone-shaped party hat. The glitter from the hat shed onto Flower's hands when she picked it up. It read, "Birthday Queen" right in the middle of it.

She turned around and faced Pin. "It's BEAUTIFUL, right?"

Pin, being brutally honest, replied. "Did you murder a fairy or something? Why is there so much glitter...?"

"Hey! There's never too much glitter! How dare you say that, Pin?!" Flower grew angry.

"Look, I'm just saying...Leafy might not like that."

"YES SHE WILL!! She loves my fashion! She- She bought a dress from me not too long ago!" Flower loved to argue back, and so did Pin. This could go on for hours.

Coiny quickly interrupted them. "Guys, stop! Let's sit back and wait for everybody to come, no big deal."

Knock knock!

"Finally, more guests!" Coiny exclaimed.

He ran to the door, eager to see who had shown up.

It was Gelatin!

"Oh, hey Coiny! What's up?"

"Nothin' much. Pin and I are just finishing up the decorating for the party!"

"Finished, actually", Pin stated as she tied the last balloon.

"Oh, sick! I can't wait for Leafy to come in!! Even though I don't think she likes me...ha."

Gelatin's words confused Coiny, as he was unsure of why he would think such a thing. "What-? Why would you think that...?"

"I dunno...I guess it's because of this one interaction I had with her a while back, but it doesn't matter anymore! I am here, and I am ready to have a good time!!"

Gelatin handed Coiny a heavy set of containers full of steak. "This is dinner, so please don't drop it."

Coiny struggled to hold it all at once, especially since these were big steaks. "Steakhouse came into use, huh?"

"Haha, yeah! Firey requested I bring some to cook up for us fancy guests, so I did!!"

"Fancy isn't really the best word to use in this situation, but okay."

Flower suddenly interrupted them, causing another scene. "Excuse me-?! I am fancy!"

"Uh huh." Coiny couldn't stand Flower sometimes, but he also didn't mind her. It was a mix of emotions.

Gelatin sprang open the door for a few others who had arrived at the same time.

Needle, Fries, and Teardrop.

"TD!! Oh, it's so nice to see you!" Gelatin said with enthusiasm.

Teardrop signed back to him, "Nice to see you too."

Coiny peeked from behind Gelatin and greeted the others. "Hey, Needle!"

"What's up, Coiny!! I'm so excited to party-! Even though I haven't done it in ages..."

"Haha, me too! In all honesty, I think Pin is more excited than I am!"

Pin called out from Firey's room, where she placed down the gifts. "Uhm...no, I am not!"

Needle chuckled. "Pin, we all know you love to dance! Didn't you mention a macaroni dance once-?"

"No!"

Needle and Coiny nudged at each other, knowing they'd see her dancing later on.

Fries was quiet and didn't have much to say to anybody. He seemed to be doing just fine after the competitions were officially over for a while.

"Oh, hey, Fries," Coiny said calmly.

"Hey." He was the only guest who didn't bring anything, which was typical of him. He didn't really care about being here.

Fries walked around everybody, not saying a single hello.

"Fries? I didn't expect to see you here!" Needle was astonished to see him standing right in front of her after many months of not seeing his face.

"I didn't expect to see myself here either," he replied tiredly.

"So...how's everything?"

Fries narrowed his eyes, seeming not to want to partake in this conversation. "I hate my job."

The rest of the guests arrived, which took everybody by surprise since they were so late. It was Woody and Rocky, the typical ones, who were unaware of the concept of time.

Woody came in all shaky and anxious, as usual. He didn't really know what to say to anybody, so he just stood there, waiting for further instruction.

"Never put Firey in charge of the guest list ever again...," Flower said bluntly. "I don't think anybody else could have picked such an odd group of people."

"OKAY EVERYBODY, LISTEN UP!!" Pin's team leader skills were coming out after all this time. "Leafy should be here with Firey in about five minutes! Be ready!"

Everybody gave a thumbs up, except Rocky, since he had no hands.

"GET INTO POSITION, PEOPLE!" Pin frantically moved everybody around so that each guest popped out from a different place.

"Ugh...did you really have to put me next to Rocky?" Flower complained.

"Please just deal with it for now...," Pin replied.

"Fine."

The room was no longer full of conversation, but with complete silence. Everybody waited for Firey and Leafy to arrive patiently.

Leafy's POV!: "Okay, Leafy! I have you blindfolded. You aren't uncomfortable, are ya?"

"No! I'm *cough* fine! This must be some amazing restaurant if you are tying a blindfold around my eyes."

I walked along the sidewalk with caution, making sure I didn't trip and land on my face. That's the last thing I need.

"How far is this place, Firey?" For some reason, my surroundings felt familiar, even if I couldn't see them with my own eyes.

"Only a few minutes away!! We are so close!" His grip around my hand was keeping my balance stable. Without him, I probably would have fallen by now.

"We should go back to that park again sometime. Before everything starts to die." I hated to mention that the flowers would die soon, but it's true.

"I agree! I had a really nice time with you. This almost felt like a birthday gift for myself."

Hearing him say that made my heart flutter. I can't believe how far we've come in our relationship. It almost feels like a dream.

"We're here!"

I felt a sudden burst of relief go through me.

"I made it without falling!!" I joked.

"I wouldn't have let you fall anyway!" He joked back.

"Haha, okay! When can I remove my blindfold?"

"As soon as we walk inside. Just watch your step!"

Why can't I take it off now? I'm going to fall!

"Firey, I don't think going up the stairs with a blindfold on is a good idea..."

"You're already at the door."

Oh. It was only one step.

"Oh, cool!" I felt Firey's hand let go of mine for a moment as he creaked open the door, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Firey removed the blindfold, my face feeling relieved from the tightness around my head.

I open my eyes to see...his house? Why would-

"SURPRISE!!!!" Everyone shouted in unison, except Fries. He just stood there.

A sudden wave of anxiety flushed over me, my body tensing up at the sight of everybody. What if they don't like me?! What if they still think of me as who I used to be?! What if I do something embarrassing at my own birthday party?!?

"Oh my gosh, guys!! I- I can't believe you all came to my party!"

I actually couldn't believe they all showed up. Did they truly care about me? Or was this to get answers out of me?

Nobody knows, but it looks like I'm about to remember this night forever.

Let's hope it's for good reasons and not bad ones.

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

DAMN THIS CHAPTER IS LONG!! It definitely was my most time-consuming one, haha! The next chapter will be more eventful and less repetitive! I apologize for the wait, and if the grammar is off. I am genuinely so exhausted xD.

The party is going to be SO much fun to write!! I cannot wait to dive deeper into the others (and who knows...maybe more contestants will show up!)

Also, I just wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for 6k reads!! I am absolutely astonished by how popular this is getting, and I cannot appreciate it enough. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and to see others enjoying it melts my heart.

Chapter 19: A Night to Remember.

WARNING! This chapter contains alcohol usage and cursing. Please keep that in mind before reading. It's also very long. hehe.

Leafy's POV!

Gelatin walked up to me first, his hand landing on my shoulder. "Happy birthday, Leafster!" He chuckled, knowing that the nickname he gave me was ridiculous.

Gelatin truly did grow on me. I smiled at him, and a bit of shock showed on his face. "Thanks, Gelatin!!"

The next to come up to me was Coiny and Pin. Coiny wished me a happy birthday first, Pin saying it afterwards.

"Happy birthday!! I hope you like the decorations, haha!" The mention of the decorations directed my eyes to my surroundings.

Set table, dance area, gifts, balloons, confetti, and a big banner. All for me.

"Tsk- you all did way too much!"

"C'mon, Leafy! It's your birthday!! You deserve it!" Coiny nudged me, my balance becoming wobbly for a second.

"Haha...true."

Pin finally spoke up, her face full of uncertainty. "Happy birthday."

"Oh! Thanks, Pin!!" I went to hug her, but she backed away until Coiny gave her an angry side eye.

She hugged me back, my grip tightening around her waist.

I couldn't believe we were hugging! She never wants to hug me.

I suddenly felt Pin trying to wiggle out of my grasp. "Uh...are you going to let go?"

Crap! "Oh, sorry!" I quickly let go of her, and I see blush plastered across her face.

"Don't you EVER do that again!" Her long eyelashes and dark red eyeshadow made her look ruder. She stormed off into the living room and sat down on the couch, her arms crossed.

"I'll...go talk to her. Sorry, Leafy." He walked around the guests and sat right next to Pin, his hand gently rubbing her knee.

I couldn't hear what he was saying to her, but whatever it was, I hope it would help her forgive me.

Why was she so upset?! I don't know what I did wrong...

"Happy birthday, Leafy!" Needle glanced at Pin, then back at me. "What's up with her?"

"I...don't know. I don't think I did anything wrong, I-"

"Oh, don't be upset! It'll be okay. Pin was just a little triggered by the hug, I guess." Needle gently smiled at me, mine growing right back. "Oh, alrighty. Thanks"

I look back at Firey to see him talking to Gelatin, which was typical.

I wanted to thank him for doing all this for me, even though it made me a little anxious.

I love talking to people, don't get me wrong. I'm not an introvert, but sometimes I feel like I am. When I talk with someone, I feel obligated to please them with every word I say. If it doesn't come out right, I can't help but awkwardly smile, hoping it didn't affect the person's view of me.

Tug.

Who's tugging on me?

I turn around to see Teardrop. She waved at me and signed out, "Happy Birthday."

I knew sign language, unlike most of the others, so I signed back, "Thank you, Teardrop!"

I know Teardrop didn't need me to sign back, but I wanted to. I wanted to make her comfortable.

Teardrop's smile stretched across her face, and she nodded back.

I signed to her, "How have you been? I haven't seen you in years..."

Teardrop signed back, "I'm fine. What about you?"

"Pretty good."

Teardrop gave a thumbs up and began to walk away, which kind of made me upset, but I didn't say anything.

Next, I came up to Flower, who was dressed as if she were going somewhere fancy.

She wore a puffy, pink skirt that complemented her petals, and each arm had at least two bracelets on it. Her mascara was done with care, and her face shone with cleanliness.

"Wow, Flower! You look-"

"Beautiful, I know", she replied bluntly.

She stared at me for a moment and recognized the dress I wore. "Oh my gardener!! You're wearing the dress!!"

"Haha, yeah..." I suddenly remembered I didn't pay her fully, a guilt washing over me.

"It looks great on you!!"

Did she really mean that? "Oh, thank you!!"

"Yep. Happy birthday, Leafy!" She unexpectedly placed a glittery, pink party hat on top of my head, which fit perfectly.

"Oh my gosh! I-I love it, Flower!"

"Haha, knew you would. It really goes well with your dress!"

I grew happier knowing that Flower complimented me. She usually wasn't the one giving out compliments, but the one fishing for compliments.

It seems as if she's trying to change, which makes me proud of her. We both have quite a bad past when it comes to BFDI.

"Appreciate it, Flower."

I waved as I left to talk to somebody else.

Who else did Firey invite?

I slowly shuffled my feet around to see if I had missed anybody.

I notice Fries in a corner, drinking a root beer.

"Oh, hey, Fries!"

I've never talked to Fries before. I've heard about him, but never said anything to him.

He didn't answer me.

"How are you doing?"

"I hate my job."

Where does he work again? I could've sworn he-

"I work at the hospital front desk. It sucks."

Fries had tiredness in his eyes, as if he hadn't slept in days.

"Oh, yeah! That's where I've seen you before, ha..."

He narrowed his eyes while taking another sip of his root beer, waiting for me to say more.

"Uh...I hope you enjoy the party!"

"Whatever."

Was Fries always that dry? Or was it because he didn't know me well? Either way, I don't understand why Firey invited him. I barely knew him.

"I'll see you around Fries..."

"Yep."

I turned around and found Rocky standing right at my feet.

"Oh, Rocky! Didn't see you there, haha... almost made me trip."

Rocky stood there, grinning at me.

Please don't throw up on my dress...

"How are you?"

"Bleh." And there went the throw up. Right in the middle of the floor.

"I'll...clean that up."

Firey suddenly interrupted us and moved Rocky away from the spot where he threw up.

"Rocky! No throwing up in the middle of the room!!" Firey was playfully raising his voice.

"I got it, Leafy. Go help yourself to some appetizers."

I could've cleaned it up. "Thanks, Firey. I'll see you at the table!!"

I wait in line for appetizers. I feel as if everybody has their eyes on me, like a hawk stalking its prey.

Calm yourself, Leafy. It'll all be fine! Nothing can go wrong, right?

Behind me, the ground gently shakes.

It was Woody.

He was a nervous wreck. His feet trembled, his eyes darted behind him every minute, and he made little noises to calm himself.

"Hey, Woody," I say quietly, trying not to scare him.

"AH-!" He replies.

Somehow, I still managed to scare him.

"It's okay, Woody. Nobody's going to judge you here!"

Woody flexed a faint smile, but it quickly went back to being a scared frown.

"You can sit next to me, okay?"

He seemed to appreciate the kind gesture and nodded back.

—————————————————-

Coiny sees Pin storm off and questions it.

Why would she act like that in front of everyone?

Coiny left the room where Leafy was to find Pin. He found her sitting on the couch, alone. Her head was dug into her hands, making it look like she was crying.

"Pin-? Are you okay?" His soft hand touched her knee, startling her.

She poked her head up, but instantly put it back down. "No."

Coiny didn't know the reason why she acted like this. After all, it was only a little hug that made her act out.

"You can tell me anything, you know."

"I feel like you would already know what this is about."

He would-?

"What do you mean, Pin? I-"

Then it hit him.

"Ohh...that!"

"Ugh-! Why does she...she still acts like-"

"I'm sure she didn't mean it like that, Pin. She was hugging you as a kind gesture."

Pin sniffled, holding back her tears so her makeup didn't get messy. "I know. I guess it just triggered me."

Coiny brought his body closer to Pin's, a tight hug forming around her waist.

"You both are in a better place now. You've found your right match, and that's the best you can get out of this, right?"

"You're right. I'm acting as if I don't have the best partner in the world right now."

Coiny became all flustered, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. "Oh- uh, thanks, Pin. I love you."

"I love you, too."

—————————————

The table was full of guests, my eyes scanning the area for where I should sit.

I know that I'm sitting next to Woody, but who would sit on the other side of me?

I want to sit next to Firey, but I would burn.

I would sit next to Pin, but it would be awkward.

Coiny wouldn't be bad. He's actually pretty nice, same with Gelatin and Needle.

Flower wouldn't be a bad option, but she might make me a little anxious. I feel like she'll judge me for the way I eat.

Teardrop's pretty cool. I wouldn't mind that. She can't judge me because she's quiet.

I honestly don't mind who I sit with, as long as it's not Fries or Rocky.

"Come on, Woody." I reached out my hand, waiting for him to grab it.

A hand hold always calms me down, so why wouldn't it calm him down?

When I reached out my hand, he recoiled back in fear.

Sigh. Okay.

I sat down and waited for Woody to join. His hands shook as he placed his little plate of appetizers carefully onto the table.

He pulled out the chair and sat down slowly, similar to how I did.

Except he did it because he was anxious he'd fall off if he went on too fast. I did it because my legs hurt.

My plate looked empty compared to those around me.

Woody took cheese, crackers, salami, and chips with dip.

All I took was chips and dip. My stomach bubbled at the thought of eating.

My appetite wasn't back just yet, and I was losing weight because of it.

"Wahwahwahwahhabah!" Woody said.

I could never really understand him, but I nodded in agreement.

The table had officially been full. Firey sat across from me next to Gelatin, whose chair was inched a little further away from Firey so he didn't get mushy. Coiny sat next to Gelatin on the right side. Gelatin separated Firey and Coiny to stop them from throwing arguments at each other, and Pin, of course, sat on the other side of Coiny.

Woody separated Pin and me, making things less awkward.

On the other side of me was Flower, who carefully placed each piece of cheese perfectly on a cracker.

"The perfect ratio of cracker to cheese," she says to me.

I nod, still analyzing my surroundings.

Next to Flower was Teardrop, who occasionally threw a side eye at Flower.

Next to Teardrop was Rocky (I feel bad for her), and on the other side of him was Fries, who poked at the dip with a fork.

His plate was literally just chip dip. Nothing else.

Oh, wait. Chips are made of potatoes, that's why.

Fries looked annoyed that Rocky was sitting next to him, but I couldn't tell if it was from that or just his resting face.

And finally, Needle between Fries and Gelatin. She had a little smile on her face as she ate the salami on her plate, indulging its saltiness.

The table was full of chatter as everybody enjoyed their food.

"Are you having a good time, Leafy?" Firey asked.

"Yeah, I am!" I was, but I wasn't. I wish it were just him and me in private, holding hands under the table.

He finished chewing his cracker, crumbs getting all over the plate. "Good!"

I glanced at the way Flower ate. She carefully picked up the cracker and took gentle bites, making everyone else look like a wild animal.

I didn't want to shove food into my mouth. I had to do away with that habit.

I bit into the cracker, half of it going in my mouth, the other half all over the plate.

Don't look, don't look, don't look!

Each chew, I felt like I was being judged, as if I were being recorded on live television.

"So tell us, Leafy. How's the food?"

I would speak into a microphone, and everybody on the News channel was watching as crumbs went all over me. "It was uh- good!"

My mind clicks, and I'm back to talking with Woody. This was the calmest I've ever seen him. He stared down at his plate, avoiding eye contact, and nibbled on the little salami circles. Each bite, his eyes lit up, indicating that he was enjoying it.

"Haha, it's good, right?" Even though I didn't have any.

"Wah!" He exclaims as his smile widens.

I see Pin side-eyeing me, her face full of hate and anger.

Did the hug really bother her that much? I know we used to date, but that was a long time ago!

"How is everything, Pin?"

"Just fine."

"I'm...grateful that you came to my party!"

"Mhm."

She was so short with me. I thought she would've been fine after our conversation in the town a few weeks ago...! What am I doing wrong?

I would've said more, but I didn't want her to start raising her voice again, especially at the table.

Everybody finished their appetizers, which didn't take too long, and Gelatin started cooking up steaks on the grill.

Whenever Firey slid the door open to go help him out, the room filled up with a smell of charred smoke.

I'm not going to lie, I love steak, so I was excited.

I noticed Coiny away from Pin for a second, so I called him over.

"Psst, Coiny! Over here!"

He turned around, a surprised look displayed on his face.

"Me?"

I nodded. Who did he think I meant?! I don't know any other Coinys around here...

He slowly walked his way toward me, his eyes fearful.

Why is he scared?

"I don't mean to start drama, especially at a party, but what's up with Pin?"

His body tensed up, and his smile dropped. "You can tell something's up, can't you..."

"Of course I can! It's really bugging me-!"

It truly was bothering me. I hated to see her pouty face on for everyone to see. All I wanted was to be friends! Was that too much to ask for?!

"Well-" He paused, reciting what he was about to say in his head.

"Well...?"

"I think she felt uncomfortable with the way you hugged her! There, I said it."

What was so wrong with the way I hugged her?!? I know I hugged her during our relationship, but aren't hugs also a sign of friendship?

"Oh. I see..."

"Don't be upset by it, though!" Coiny added.

"I won't be."

But I was. I didn't want her to hate me; heck, I don't even want her to feel uncomfortable.

"Maybe I should apologize-"

"No, Leafy. It's fine, really! She's fine. I have her back."

Coiny was genuinely an amazing boyfriend towards Pin. The way he treated her, the way he was there to comfort her every time she needed it, the way he kissed her.

He knows exactly how to handle her emotions, and she's lucky to have someone like that.

Me though? Well, I wasn't the best at comforting her. I tried to make things fun. I tried to brighten up her mood, but nothing ever worked. Was I too pushy-?!

I screwed up, that's what I did. It doesn't matter now, though, because I'm with the best man in the world, but I wish I could go back and tell her what I did wrong.

Our full conversation at the town a few weeks back was fine. It was awkward, but fine. We didn't mention any relationship issues we had or anything about our breakup. We spoke as friends. That's what I want to do again, but I screwed up this time. I had to hug her like I used to, even though I didn't mean it.

"Leafy-?! Leafy!"

My eyes made it back to Coiny's face, which was now full of concern. "Oh-uh, sorry."

"You made me worried! You just stood there, not saying a word!"

"Sorry."

Coiny suddenly grabbed my shoulder. "Don't be upset at your birthday party, okay? Go have fun."

I grinned. "Thanks, Coiny."

I suddenly remembered Apollo, who was resting in my room for some odd reason.

"Apollo...?" I crept open the door, awaiting the moment he'd open up his eyes.

"mmrp-?" He replied.

"Is the noise bothering you?"

He looked up at me with his beautiful blue eyes, then lay his head back down.

"I'll leave you be."

"What's in there-?"

Why was Needle here?

"Oh! Hey, Needle. You startled me there, haha!"

"Sorry! I felt like I wasn't talking to you enough, so I decided to come and see you."

"Oh, thanks! Uh- I was checking up on Apollo, ha."

"Who?"

I forgot she doesn't know about him.

"Oh, Apollo! He's my pet."

"Can I pet him?"

"Y'know what- sure."

I open the door for Needle. She inches closer to him, her eyes staring in admiration.

"How did you find such a gorgeous dog? I've never seen one look so similar to a wolf!"

"Haha...it's pretty funny you say that, actually."

"Why? It's the truth!" She reached her hand out, Apollo sniffing it, then turning back around to sleep.

"What if I told you he actually was a wolf...?"

Needle turned around, her eyes widened. "Uh, I'd believe you, then I wouldn't."

"He's a wolf."

"WHAT?!" Needle screamed, causing Apollo's ear to perk up in alertness.

"Shh-! Yes, he's an actual wolf..."

Needle was shocked to know he was an actual wolf. "You have a wolf in your HOUSE?!"

"Well- Firey's house, actually. I don't have my own place."

"I can't believe this! He's so well-behaved, too."

She's right. He is well-behaved for a wolf.

"What's wrong with his leg-?" She inched closer to him and softly touched it, Apollo jumping up.

Sudden flashbacks of me stabbing wolves popped back into my head.

"DON'T TOUCH THAT!" I accidentally screamed.

My heart was beating out of my chest, and my legs became weaker from the mention of his.

"I'm...I'm so sorry, Needle."

Needle backed away from Apollo, worried she'd upset me again. "It's fine, Leafy. I shouldn't have touched it."

"No...No, stop. You didn't do anything wrong. I'm the rude one here."

I no longer felt pretty. I felt like those damn swans at the park, the ones that are beautiful on the outside, but ugly on the inside.

"What's wrong with me, Needle?"

"Nothing, Leafy! You know everybody here sees you've changed, right?"

Not everybody.

"They do?"

"Did you seriously think we'd all show up if we didn't forgive you?"

"I appreciate everybody here, even if they aren't interested in me."

"Who's not interested in you??"

"...Fries." And Pin, but I didn't want to mention it.

"Oh- pfft! Fries doesn't like anybody!"

So it wasn't just me!

"That makes me feel better about it, actually."

"Good. Now come on, let's eat dinner!"

——————————————————-

Dinner was amazing, even if I wasn't that hungry. The steak was seasoned well, and the inside was tender and juicy. Firey had also grilled up some burgers for those who didn't want steak, and I heard those were good, too. There were mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and vegetables on the side.

It was an amazing meal.

Then came dessert.

Each dessert was rich and sweet. I personally loved vanilla, so I was excited when I found out Firey bought me a vanilla cake. Everyone sang Happy Birthday, which made me feel special and appreciated by my peers. We all enjoyed our mixture of special chocolates, cookies, and cake, and talked about how our lives have been.

Afterwards, I opened gifts from everybody.

Firey got us matching teddy bears, which I loved. It was my favorite gift.

Coiny and Pin got me a little plant. It was only a sprout now, but once it grows, it'll be beautiful.

Flower gave me a set of skirts from her store. They were white, pink, and yellow, which were my favorites.

Needle bought me a picnic basket for when Firey and I go on dates in the park, which made my heart flutter at the thought of it.

Woody gave me a card with a gift card to a restaurant inside it. The handwriting was shaky and illegible, but I appreciated it anyway.

Teardrop made me a comic book with an illustration of me being kind to others. This made me smile the brightest, and I signed a thank you to her afterwards.

Rocky's gift was cute and honestly made me chuckle. He gave me a pot, which was cracked on one side, full of flowers he found by the lake he hung out at during the day.

Gelatin's gift surprised me. He bought me gardening boots, a hobby that I didn't know he knew of. I honestly loved gardening, I always have, so this gift made me cheerful.

And last was Fries's gift. Fries's gift was an empty card with money inside it, nothing else. I appreciated it, but he could've written something inside the card.

I thanked everyone around me with hugs and gestures, but this time, I knew not to hug Pin.

Honestly, I feel great right now. Each gift gave me a sense of comfort, even Fries's.

Maybe Needle was right. Maybe I will finally be accepted.

The sun set, and it was officially 9 PM. The lights in the house shone brighter than usual, the crickets made noises outside, and the moon flexed its beauty instead of the sun.

The outside felt more peaceful, but the inside didn't. Everybody grew rowdy and loud, especially Gelatin and Firey.

"Hey, Firey!"

He glanced at me, but no answer.

He was talking to Gelatin about something I blocked out.

I waited and waited until he finally cut Gelatin off for a second.

"What's up, my love?" He had a smirk on.

"I wanted to see what you were doing. It seems that everyone's starting to turn up the party mode, ha."

"Oh, yeah! Everyone's waiting for the dancing to start."

Dancing? I can barely walk!

"Dancing?"

Gelatin sipped on his fruit punch Capri-Sun and giggled. "Duh! Dancing is like a big part of parties, Leafy! We want you to have fun, y'know?"

I guess he was right.

"True!" I laughed it off, even though I wasn't very excited to dance.

The door suddenly banged open, the conversation flooding out the open door.

"I'm SO excited to dance!" Said a familiar voice.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Who invited THEM-?!" Firey's eyes searched around the room, but he couldn't suspect who would do such a thing.

"Nobody. We just decided to come." It was Pencil and her teammates!

"You've got to be fucking kidding me!" Firey shouted angrily.

He placed down his soda and stomped his way toward the door, where the Freesmarters stood tall and proud.

"Did you really have to bring your little clan with you too-?!" I have never seen Firey this furious. His flame was growing in size by the second, Match backing away.

"Firey, calm the fuck down. We're only here to party, nothing else!" Pencil replied rudely.

I glanced at Pin, whose face grew full of fury. "OH HELL NO! DO NOT LET THEM IN, FIREY!"

Coiny placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, but she shoved it off.

"We already are like- in," Match replied.

Firey wasn't sure what to do. I could tell by the look in his eyes. "I'll let you guys stay IF you don't cause any trouble..."

"YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS, FIREY!" Pin went to say more, but Coiny hushed her up.

"Good because we weren't going to leave anyway...," Pencil said with sass.

Firey's flame grew even larger as they all marched in.

Pencil, Match, Ruby, Bubble, Book, and Ice Cube.

"At least it's nice to see more people want to come to my birthday party!"

"That's not really why we came, but sure!!" Ruby replied while grinning.

I didn't know Ruby or Book well, but I knew exactly what Pencil, Match, Bubble, and Ice cube were all about.

Bubble hated me, and so did Ice Cube, so this will be fun.

Pin finally spoke to me after hours of avoiding me. "These Freesmarters are full of shit." She crossed her arms to add to her sass.

"They can't be that bad, right?"

Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Uh- yes, they are, Leafy. You'll see. Your party is practically ruined from this point on. Firey is FOOLISH to let them in!" She stared Firey dead in the eyes, making him flinch.

"They won't cause any trouble, Pin! It'll be okay, trust me."

"Yeah, Pin. Listen to Firey." Pencil's remark made Pin snarl.

Okay, Leafy. Calm yourself. Everything will be just fine!

———————————————

IT WAS NOT FINE.

Pencil decided to bring the alcohol, which made me uncomfortable. I wasn't fond of how people acted when they drank too much.

Most of the guests dreaded the Freesmarters being there, besides Needle.

Needle didn't have a great history with them, but she didn't have a bad one either. She was happy to see them again, though, considering she used to be on the team.

I grew nervous about the new atmosphere of the party. The music grew loud and made it hard to hear myself. I scanned the area and decided to make my way back into my room, where Apollo still rested quietly.

"Hey, buddy. Are you still doing okay? I know the music is probably hurting your eardrums."

He yawned and turned his body toward me, giving me gentle licks on the hand. He was cheerful to see me after the few hours I had left him.

"I'll take that as a yes, ha!"

As I gave Apollo gentle strokes on the head, I heard someone mention my name.

"Where is Leafy? She should be like- dancing at her own party..."

I could tell by the use of "like" that it was Match.

"What is Leafy even like?!? I'm so confused!!" The voice sounded familiar, but it didn't.

Oh. It was Book.

"We told you, Book. She's not really worth talking about," Pencil added.

Not worth talking about?!? Wow, okay. That was harsh.

Ignore them, Leafy. Enjoy your party. Do what you want to do, not what they want you to do.

I heard the sudden thudding of the footsteps, wondering who was coming up to my room.

It was Firey!!

Except, he looked different. His tie wasn't on anymore, his face looked flustered, and his eyes weren't opened as widely as before.

"What's up, Fireman?"

He stood in my doorway with a big smirk on his face. "Oh, nothing~ I just wanted to know if you felt like... dancin'!" His smirk grew larger, like his flame did earlier, except he wasn't angry anymore.

"Sure, but please remember I can't dance too hard because of my leg pains and-"

"PERFECT!!" He grabbed my hand, but it wasn't the normal, gentle grip he usually gives me. It was firm and rough, almost as if he forgot we were together.

"Wait one second...," he said drowsily.

As I waited, I placed my party hat on the counter so it wouldn't get ruined while I danced.

Firey suddenly found a Yoyleberry at the back of the fridge, the skin around it mushy and brown.

"I wouldn't eat that if-"

But he popped it into his mouth. His flame no longer lit up in my face as his skin turned into rough metal.

"Heh...now I'm ready."

He pulled me in and kissed me on the cheek, a blush cloud forming on my face.

"O-Oh~," I responded to his kiss.

"I know you want more of me..."

Firey was REALLY flirty right now. He wasn't like this the last time I saw him!

"I do?"

"Mhm...y'know you look so pretty in that dress, right?"

"You already said that earlier, but thank you."

His sentence paused for a second, then he continued. "Let's dance, Leafy."

I suddenly became nervous. What if I fell? What if I end up being in the center of the dance floor? What if I bump into somebody?

This time, I wasn't snapped back to reality by the grip of his warm hand, but his loud mouth.

"LEAFY'S HERE!!!"

Needle, Gelatin, Woody, Flower, Coiny, and Ruby shouted in excitement. Everyone else glanced.

The only one not on the dance floor was Fries, typical.

He leaned back on the speaker that played, "Party in the USA," and drank a can of beer.

"I'm...going outside."

Rocky threw up and made a "mmhum" noise. He shuffled his way around everyone's twirling feet and followed Fries, who walked out the back door with a pack of cigarettes in his right hand.

Pin wasn't really moving much. She had a pissy face on, letting me know I shouldn't try talking to her. Once again, Coiny stood by her side, trying to brighten up the situation.

I felt someone pick me up.

It was Firey again, but this time I wasn't as excited to see him.

"Oh!"

He supported my body and twirled me around over his head, causing everything I ate to stir up in my stomach.

"Easy on the twirling, Fireball. I wouldn't want my dinner to end up on top of your head," I joked.

Gelatin inched his way closer to us. "Man! Fireboy's got the MOVES tonight!!"

I laughed, agreeing with what he said.

Firey placed my body down and began talking to Gelatin.

"You really think so? Haha!! Well, don't you worry. I've just started!"

Just started?!

"Hold on, Leafy. I'm going to grab a drink. Do you want anything?"

Firey drinks...?

"Oh, no. I'm good! Thanks for the offer, though."

If I drank anything, I'd throw up right on the spot. I know it's my birthday and all, but I still don't feel a hundred percent.

"Firey really loves you, Leafy," Gelatin exclaimed with brightness on his face.

"I can tell! I love him too."

"Hold on, Leaftser. I have to go change the song real quick."

Oh. Guess I know who's in charge of the music.

The Freesmarters went crazy when "HOT TO GO" came on the party speaker. I actually was hyped when that song came on, too.

"PENCE PENCE IT'S THE SONG!!" Match exclaimed with excitement.

Pencil smiled and started dancing with Match while they sang the lyrics out loud.

Bubble joined them, but they cut her off after telling her that her singing made their ears bleed.

Ruby danced with Flower while Book danced with Ice Cube.

They all looked like they were having an amazing time, which made me glad.

—————————————————

"Flower!! Long time no see!" Ruby flexed her shiny, white teeth.

"Oh. Hey, Ruby...," Flower replied. She wasn't expecting Ruby to come up to her.

"You look so pretty tonight!!"

Flower's face bloomed with red blush. "O-Oh, thank you, Ruby!"

Ruby suddenly broke the awkwardness, Flower's blush disappearing for a second. "CAN WE DANCE TOGETHER PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE?!"

"I don't see why not! I don't really have anybody to hang around with anyway-"

"YAY!!!"

Book smiled, knowing that Ruby had a crush on Flower. She was proud of her for finally talking to Flower. After all, Book was close with Ruby. She's always there for her.

"Are you having fun, Icy?" Book asked, unsure of what Ice Cube would say back.

Her smile stretched across her face. "Yeah!"

"I am too, but I still would like to know why we are here..."

"Trust me, you don't need to get to know Leafy. She's...a little much."

"That's not it, Icy. I honestly feel like this is wrong in some way...as if we shouldn't be here. We weren't invited."

Ice cube looked down at her feet, then back up at Book, whose face was full of guilt. "Book, it's okay. We were allowed in, and besides, Firey's not that bad. I'm sure he doesn't mind taking in another group."

"You're right. I need to learn how to have fun."

"You do know how to have fun! Let's dance!"

Ice Cube began to shuffle her feet around, and so did Book.

"Last Friday Night" began to play, hyping up the dance floor even more.

———————————————————

Firey finally came back with his drink, guzzling it as if it would run away from him, just like I did that one time.

"There she is! My beautiful girlfriend."

"Took you long enough," I joked.

"You could've partied without me."

"I didn't want to!! What if I embarrassed myself?!"

"Heh, you'd still look cute~"

He grabbed my hand again and began to sway me back and forth. A drink in his left, my hand in his right.

Then, he started going rougher, my legs beginning to tighten.

"Party harder, Leafy!!"

I- I can't!

"I'm trying, Firey!"

The song changed again.

"Sway" came on, and the room calmed down for a moment.

Love was in the air between the crushes and couples in the room.

Firey's face softened, his roughness fading away.

He placed his drink on a nearby table and grabbed both of my hands, steadily moving us along to the music.

I darted my eyes away from his face for a moment to notice Coiny's hands wrapped around Pin's waist while he swayed her back and forth.

Pencil and Match were all awkward with each other as they held hands to the music.

Ruby was hugging Flower tightly, her face pink like her petals.

Everyone else watched us with gentle looks on their faces.

"Other dancers may be on the floor. Dear, but my eyes will see only you."

The lyrics made me stare Firey dead in the eyes, blocking out the guests that stared us down.

My eyes will see only you.

His eyes glistened with love as I stared at him. The way my dress moved back and forth reminded me of the ocean breeze. I tightened my grip on his soft hands and twirled him around, my body falling right into his arms. He lifted me in the air, the lights shining into my eyes. At this very moment, I forgot I was in Firey's house, dancing in a big room. It felt like I was with him on a big, fluffy cloud up in the sky

I was gently put back onto the floor, letting out a chuckle. We were no longer on a cloud up in the sky, but a field of flowers on the ground.

The song stated its final, "Stay with me, sway with me," and we stopped moving. The moment of silence felt awkward until he leaned me back and kissed me right on the lips. My eyes lit up, and my mind went back to the day of our first date.

It all happened in the same dress, too.

The kiss lasted longer than it did last time, the moment of bliss being brought back to me. A heavy weight of stress lifted off my shoulders as I was sent to an area of peace. His lips were as soft as cotton, along with his hands.

He finally pulled back, our lips breaking up with each other. The look in his eyes was gentler and calmer, as if he had changed into a different person.

Tears form in my eyes, unable to hold them back. My heart felt full, as if the tears had filled up inside of my heart rather than my eyes.

"Oh, Firey!" I dig my head into his chest, unable to let go of him.

I can't imagine a life without him in it anymore.

The room was still quiet. The lights were the only thing in party mode as everyone stood still, waiting for the couples to be done with their moment.

Firey's little "love you" broke the silence.

I got up and wiped my dress. My eyes no longer saw only him, but everyone.

Now I feel embarrassed.

Flower and Ruby held hands, which brought me to a shock.

Pencil and Match rolled their eyes at us, but turned it into a gentle smile.

Coiny and Pin were gripping onto each other tightly as they stared at Firey and me. Coiny smiled at me, and surprisingly, so did Pin.

"That was...beautiful, everyone!" Gelatin clapped, causing others to follow. I could tell he was teary-eyed, but he quickly wiped them away. "Love is in the air tonight, folks!" He said loudly into the microphone.

Book and Ice Cube giggled along with Bubble, who had been alone the last time I saw her.

Needle hung around Teardrop and Woody, who also found the moment charming.

Fries was still outside with Rocky, so they had missed the entire thing.

Gelatin broke the awkward silence by putting on a new party song called "Just Dance."

The mood shifted from quiet and charming to loud and energetic. Pencil and Match no longer acted like a couple, but like friends. They both mentioned their love for the song with their loud mouths and shared laughs.

"I'll be right back, Firey."

Firey, back to sipping on his beer, gave me a quick thumbs up.

I wanted to check up on Fries and Rocky. He had been out there for a while, and I didn't want him smoking too much.

I opened the door to the outside. It was pitch black, so it was hard to see where I was going.

"Fries...? Rocky...?"

I close the door, the noise from inside becoming quieter.

I heard a puddle of wet throw-up deploy out of Rocky's mouth.

"Rocky! Where are you?"

The porch light finally decided to turn on, making my surroundings clear again.

"Watch your step," Fries said tiredly.

"WOAH-!" There was a shovel in Fries's hand and a huge hole in the ground.

Inside the hole was Rocky, who was floating in his own vomit.

"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING, FRIES?!?"

He shrugged, unaware of how angry I was. "He asked me to dig a hole for him, so I did. Is it really that big of a deal?"

"Yes, Fries! It looks like a meteorite left a mark in Firey's backyard!"

"No. That would be much bigger-"

"YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN, FRIES!! Now, please get Rocky out of there!"

"I put a lot of effort into this hole, y'know." His voice was dry and emotionless.

"Cool, but I'd like it covered back up before you leave, please."

"Ugh, fine."

I stared down at Rocky, who was smiling like usual. I don't think there was a single thought behind those eyes.

"Well, is he going to get out or..."

"I'll get him out soon."

"Okay, thank you!"

I turned to go back inside, but he surprisingly began to speak again.

"You look like a good version of Evil Leafy."

Who...?

"Uh...who's that?"

Fries looked astonished to know I had no clue what he was talking about. "Aren't you guys siblings or something?"

Siblings?!? I've never had a sibling!

"What the hell are you talking about? I'm an only child."

My heart was pounding out of my chest, but he couldn't tell.

"Forget anything I said. Now shoo!"

"No, no. I'm not going to forget what you said, Fries. Who is Evil Leafy?!"

He dropped his shovel and sighed. "She's a red version of you with big eyebrows and eye bags. She usually doesn't have much of an expression on her face, just an unsettling stare."

This sounds...familiar.

"Does she have claws or black antlers?"

"Oh, yeah. Forgot to mention that."

THIS WAS THE VERSION OF ME FROM MY NIGHTMARE!

"YOU KNOW HER?!?" I felt the world around me become a blur, a sudden fog forming around me.

"Uh- yeah. She's pretty fucking hot."

HOT?!?

"YOU THINK THAT- THING...IS HOT?!?"

"I mean, yeah. You can never go wrong with an insane girlfriend."

The way he said it angered me. Why was he so nonchalant about this?

"That THING killed me! Multiple times!"

He scanned my body and blinked slowly. "You're standing right in front of me in one piece."

"IN MY NIGHTMARE, DIPSHIT!! SHE DID IN MY NIGHTMARE!"

He rolled his eyes. "You could've specified that."

"She's...real. She's actually real." I felt my world crumble around me. Where did this thing come from, and why was she haunting me like this?

Fries stared at me like I was crazy. "I think you had too much to drink, Leafy."

Says the one who smelled like beer and cigarettes.

"I didn't have a single one!"

"Sure...," he said sarcastically.

I stormed my way back inside, the noise shooting through my ears. I couldn't imagine how Apollo felt.

Nothing felt real to me right now. Evil Leafy...? When was this a thing, and why does only Fries know about it?

Most importantly, why did he think she was HOT? I've never heard of anybody having such a weird type.

My breath felt short. I tried controlling them, but it didn't work.

Oh no.

The speakers added to my unusually fast heart rate, causing beads of sweat to drip from my forehead.

"FIREY, YOU'RE SO DRUNK, HAHA!!" I heard someone shout.

Great.

My vision was blurry, and my legs were like jello sinking into the ground.

I barely made it to the couch and sat straight up, awaiting the moment I'd calm down. "

I'm always here, Leafy," said the faint voice of Evil Leafy in my head.

"S-Shut up...," I said quietly to myself.

My hands trembled as I went from the happiest moment in my life to feeling like complete crap.

I began to bounce my foot up and down quickly, but it became uncontrollable.

"Leafy...?" A familiar voice said.

I didn't look up because I was nervous about it making me more anxious.

"You look anxious."

I breathed in and out, ignoring the person in front of me. I felt my green color turn flushed as I tried to let the anxiety pour out of me, but it didn't work.

The music blasting through the party speakers matched the throbbing of my headache. I held my hands near my temples, rubbing them ever so gently.

I can't breathe.

I catch my breath, but I still feel lightheaded. The world around me became faint, even the party lights. The party banner was no longer bright and colorful, but dull and blurred.

I felt like a snail inside its shell, isolated from the outside world around me.

I wanted the party to end. I wanted to go back to the way the house was a few hours ago, nice and quiet.

"Leafy! Talk to me!"

I couldn't. I couldn't slip any word out of me.

A gentle touch of the knee made me perk my head up to see Needle.

Needle kindly sat with me through my panic attack, rubbing my back ever-so gently.

"Breath, Leafy. Breath. It's going to be okay."

I close my eyes and think about the moments that made me happy tonight.

The music, the dancing, the gifts, and the way he kissed me. All wrapped up perfectly in a gift box just for me.

I chuckled to myself, Needle doing the same thing back. "There's no reason to be anxious, Leafy. You're doing great."

My body slightly calmed down, so I talked back to her. "T-Thanks."

"...God, I look like a wreck at my own birthday party."

"No, you don't! You looked amazing on the dance floor tonight, especially when you danced with Firey."

"I guess you're right."

"FIREY, WHAT THE FUCK? GET OFF ME!!" I heard Coiny scream.

"Oh, yeah. Your boyfriend had a couple of drinks, if you didn't notice."

I only saw him drink two! "Oh, great."

Coiny stomped his way out of the room with Pin following, his face full of fury. "HE TRIED TO KISS ME!"

"WHAT?" Needle and I say in unison.

"Who knew Firey was gay...," he teased.

Pin laughed out loud, unable to control her little snorts. "HE LITERALLY LEANED IN!"

"I leave for half an hour and all of THIS happens?!?"

"Pretty much. Why did you leave anyway?" Coiny questioned.

"I- uh...needed some alone time."

Pin rolled her eyes while Coiny went, "Ohhh!"

I didn't want to tell them I had a panic attack, so I pushed it all aside, despite still feeling icky from it.

"I'm going to go check up on Firey. Thanks for staying with me for a bit, guys."

"It's no problem, Leafy! I was worried about you," Needle said truthfully.

"We were, too," Coiny replied for Pin.

I got up from the couch and slowly inched myself closer to the main party room, my legs starting to ache in unbearable pain again.

"Firey!" I shouted over the music.

The song playing now was "TiK ToK."

"Wha-? Oh, L-Leafy!" He held a half-drunk bottle of beer in his hand and stared at me with his droopy eyes. "Took you....*hic* long enough, HA!"

"Why'd you drink so much, hm?"

His face looked full of guilt. "I dunno...but, you look BEAUTIFUL, sweetie!" He sipped his beer again, then placed it on a side table. "C-Care to dance?"

"Again? You know what- sure, why not."

"Haha, that's the s-spirit!"

"Hey, uh- Firey...," I whispered to him.

"Whatttttt?" He replied loudly.

"How many drinks did you have?"

"I dunno. Probably like...f-*hic* five."

"FIVE?!? FIREY!!" I was appalled by his response. Five beers?!

"DOES THAT INCLUDE THE ONE YOU ARE DRINKING RIGHT NOW?!"

He rolled his eyes, then gave me a soft kiss on the hand. "Don't w-worry, Leafy. I'm fine," he replied gently.

"No, you aren't. Coiny told me you tried to kiss him. That's weird, Firey."

His demeanor changed from a loving boyfriend to a complete idiot. "K-Kiss him?!? I didn't kiss NOBODY but y-you..."

"You probably thought it was me, considering how drunk you are. You're acting ridiculous, Firey."

People were staring at us. They know he's drunk. They know I'm anxious.

"M-Me?! Ridiculous? C'mon, Leafy-!"

He smelt of beer and sweat, like one of those dudes at the bar on a Friday night.

"I would've thought you'd act more mature. You know I don't feel well."

He howled. "O-Obviously. Look how big that y-yellow spot- *hic* has grown!"

What?

I look down by the side of my dress to see that the yellow splotch has spread further around my skin, making it more visible.

"No, no, no....this-this can't be happening to me."

"Relaxxxx, babe! It's only just a-"

"NO!" Then, I did it. I slapped him in front of everyone.

The music still played, but it felt quieter. "Leafy...," Gelatin said silently.

"I-I am so sorry, Firey..."

"M-Maybe you should stay out of this, Leafy."

"What? What do you-"

He held his cheek, trying to make the pain go away. "Go anywhere else BUT here. P- Please."

He was acting totally out of character right now. "Fine! You don't want me here?! I'll fucking leave, Firey!" My eyes were watery and full of tears, waiting to drip down my cheek.

"Hey, calm down, Leafy! It'll be okay," Gelatin said with a calming tone.

Firey grabbed his beer bottle again, sipping it before he spoke. "N-No, it w-won't."

"Firey, respectfully, stop talking," Gelatin replied with fury.

Firey quickly hushed himself, like a phone being put on silent mode.

"Thanks, Gelatin."

"Oh, it's no problem! Firey isn't himself right now, pay no mind to what he says."

"Is he the only one drunk?" I was embarrassed to ask that. Just the thought of it made me uneasy.

"Oh- pfft, no. Match TOTALLY is. Look at how she's acting!"

I drew my attention to Match, who was loudly talking about her job as a waiter at the restaurant Firey and I went to on our first date.

"It like- sucks. I only d-do it for like- the c-*hic*cash..."

The only reason I knew she was drunk was because of the stuttering, not because of what she said.

"Yeah, Match. Your job fucking sucks," Pencil replied.

"They're all- all like- bitches!" Match added.

Bubble came closer to them. "Oi actually like that place!"

"It's not that bad, I just can't see Match working there!" Pencil was defensive and a little more stern with her words.

"Oi see...," Bubble replied sadly.

The other Freesmarters, Ice Cube, Ruby, and Book were all huddled around each other, singing, "Diamonds."

Flower watched Ruby in awe, her makeup somehow still in pristine condition.

"Aren't you having so much fun, Book?" Ice cube asked.

"You know what, yeah! Yeah, I am!" Book's smile looked like it would show up on all her pages, considering how big it was plastered on her face. "Even if I am a little tired...," Book added on.

Ruby nudged Book on the side, her face lighting up in alertness. "Tired, already?! Book, it isn't even midnight yet!!"

"I know, I know! I usually never party this late, though!"

"We can take a break, Book. I need one, too."

"Alright, Icy. I'll take a break with you!"

Ruby waved goodbye to them as they made their way to the living room couch.

Gelatin had turned on a new song, called "Die Young."

Everyone cheered, except Teardrop. She faintly smiled.

Woody still looked stiff and awkward on the dance floor, but not as bad as before.

"Flower...have you ever heard of Lemon Demon?"

"What, no? What's that?"

"Well, Lemon Demon made this one song, and it really gets me in the feels, you know!"

"How does it go...?" Flower's head was spinning between the question and the loud atmosphere around her.

Ruby took a deep breath before singing to Flower. "TWO TRUCKS HAVING SEX! TWO TRUCKS HAVING S-" Flower quickly cut off Ruby, the room filling back up with the original song that was playing.

"Yeah, uh- no. Never heard of it."

"CAN I SING IT AGAIN PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE?"

"Uh...maybe after the party is over, okay?"

"OHHH, OKAY!! Makes more sense."

——————————————————

/Out of Leafy's POV/

The back door abruptly opens, and everyone's attention is drawn back. Someone strong had to have opened that door.

It was Snowball, who was holding two 12 packs of beer in one arm, and slammed the door open with the other.

He grunted. "Is this the party you wanted to go to, Pen?"

"Yeah! My sister's here. She texted me earlier and asked me to come, but I wanted to bring you guys!"

That voice was nobody but Pencil's brother, Pen. He stood tall and proud with a blue cap on his head. He wore 2 slap bracelets, one blue and the other red.

Eraser and Blocky followed behind Snowball and Pen, who made eye contact with Book and Ice Cube.

"More guests?" Book said in confusion.

"It isn't a problem, right? We were invited...," Pen replied.

Book rolled her eyes. "I don't know if you were or not, but I don't think the host could kick you out even if he wanted to."

The friend group glanced at each other, then back at Book. "What do you mean?" Pen responded.

"Firey's as drunk as a sailor."

"Firey-? Of all people?" Blocky questioned.

"I'm as shocked as you are, haha!"

Leafy stomped into the room, biting her lip in vexation. "There's MORE of you?!?"

This was Book's first real impression of Leafy, and she wasn't sure how to feel.

"Fine, fine! You can all stay, I don't care anymore. Just please don't let this night get worse than it already is!"

Before the group could say anything, she stormed past them and opened the back door to see that the hole was still there, but smaller. "Fries, why did you let them come in?"

His voice was low and raspy as usual. "I don't know." The expression on his face showed that he didn't care.

"I guess I'll let it slide. You're lucky I'm so kind and merciful, unlike most here." Leafy slammed the door closed and saw her distorted reflection on the fingerprint-smudged glass. "I look like a wreck...," she softly said to herself. It was true. Her mascara was smudged like the fingerprints on the glass, and the bottom of her dress was stained with brown dirt from when she went outside earlier.

Book heard Leafy call herself a wreck, but didn't say a word. Ice Cube sat still, not caring about what Leafy was saying.

"Everything alright, Leafy?" Pen had a big heart, even for a "cool guy."

"I'm fine." She reached into the cooler to grab a Sprite and sat down at the party table, which was empty.

The only thing that sat with her was leftover cookies and crumbs.

"Uh...happy birthday," Eraser added.

"Thanks."

The two packs of beer were placed into a big cooler with ice.

Snowball, Eraser, and Blocky all grabbed one for themselves and made their way to the dance floor.

Eraser walked up to Gelatin, who was keeping a close eye on what stunt Firey would pull next. "What's with the slut music?"

Gelatin heard his voice and turned around, laughing at his comment. "Oh, you must be Eraser! When did you get here?"

"Just now. Uh- is Firey okay?"

Gelatin turned back to see Firey lying down on the floor as if he were in his bed.

"Firey, get up!" Gelatin tried pulling him up with his hand, but Yoyle metal isn't the easiest thing to lift. "You're making a fool out of yourself!"

Snowball saw Gelatin struggle to pull up Firey, so he lent a helping hand. He was strong, so Firey was up within seconds.

"Had too much to drink there, bud?" Snowball howled while grasping onto a beer bottle.

"W-Where's my g...girlfriend?"

Snowball rolled his eyes. "She's at the party table. Why do you ask?"

"She-She's been avoiding...avoiding *hic* me!" Firey was the loudest one in the room, causing everyone to stare and giggle at his idiotic behavior.

"I wonder why...," Gelatin added.

"He's totally going to be talked about after this party," Eraser teased. "I would know."

"Probably," Snowball responded. His voice was suddenly lower than usual, and he looked Gelatin dead in the eyes. "Make sure he doesn't drink anymore, okay? You wouldn't want this to be worse than it already is."

Snowball's concern shocked Eraser, but he brushed it off. "I agree with Snowball."

"I'm trying, guys, I promise. It's hard controlling the music and him at the same time!"

"I can do the music," Eraser suggested with a smirk on his face.

"No, Eraser! I already know it'll be explicit as heck!"

"How'd you know? Ha!" Eraser gave Snowball a fist bump and started to walk over to his boyfriend, Pen, who was talking to the Freesmarters. "I'll see you around, guys." He left Gelatin and Snowball, who still kept an eye on Firey.

Pencil was no longer dancing, but standing upright with her arms crossed, flexing her sass. "Pen, why the hell are you so late?"

"I'm sorry, sis! I had to grab the bros."

"You could've come alone, but alright. Just don't let that Blocky pull any pranks on me."

Pen turned around and faced Blocky, who had a water balloon behind his back. "Uh, yeah, of course! I'd never do anything like that...haha."

Pencil's eyebrow raised, knowing of the trick he was about to pull. "I see it behind your back, Blocky. Come on, give it here."

"Ugh, fine..." He gave up the water balloon and placed it gently into the palm of Pencil's hand.

A smirk formed on his face as she grasped her hand around it, a sudden shock zapping her hand. She pulled away for a second, processing what had just happened.

"YOU LITTLE FUCKER-!" She exclaimed as she dropped the fake water balloon on the ground. "Was that really necessary?!"

Blocky's face somehow turned even redder from laughing so hard. "OH, PENCIL! YOU SHOULD'VE SEEN THE LOOK ON YOUR FACE!"

Pencil rolled her eyes at his immaturity, her arms back to being crossed. "You're a grown ass man doing shit like this. You can DRINK now, Blocky! You literally have one in your hand! Is that a fake too?!?" She snatched it out of his hand with rage, but nothing happened. It was just a regular beer bottle.

"Is a snake going to pop out or something?!"

Blocky was amused by her crash-out. After all, that was his goal. He didn't care that he was older now. He still loved pranking people.

Pen placed a hand on Pencil's shoulder. "Whoa, sis, chill. I'm sure he didn't mean to make you angry," he said calmly.

"Yes, he did! This is why you should've just come by yourself."

Match, still as drunk as a sailor, butted into the conversation. "He tots d-did it on like- p-purpose!"

Pen narrowed his eyes at Match, who he knew was drunk. "I know that. What I'm saying is I'm sure he didn't mean to make Pencil upset! He's just having fun! What's the harm in that?"

"Everything, Pen. Everything," Pencil replied bluntly.

Eraser unexpectedly showed up, his open hand grabbing Pen's. "Everything okay?"

Pen's calm face turned all flustered. "O-Oh, yeah. Blocky decided to prank my sister again." Pen was holding back his laughter so Pencil didn't get angry.

"Blocky, we've been here for twenty minutes and you've already pranked someone?"

Blocky chuckled to himself. "Look, I had to! It's a damn party! Where you have a damn good time!"

Pencil glanced at Eraser's grip on her brother's hand and rolled her eyes. She wasn't fond of Eraser and never planned on liking him. She couldn't believe Pen ended up with a guy like him.

"Well, you can have a damn good time pranking someone else, Blocky. I know you didn't mean to anger her, but play a prank on someone else." Pen was trying to keep things calm and lively. He didn't like arguing, especially when it was over something so simple.

Blocky ignored what Pen said and turned to Pencil. "Can I have my beer back now?"

"Alright. Take it."

Blocky looked up at Pencil, who held the beer high over her eraser top. "You want it?"

"Oh, come on! Just give it back already!" Blocky jumped up as high as he could, but couldn't reach it. She was too tall for his little legs.

"Ha, payback."

"Pencil, stop teasing him!" Pen grabbed the drink out of her hand and placed it back into Blocky's, whose smirk had formed once again.

"Way to ruin the moment, bro," Pencil groaned.

"I personally find it funny," Eraser cackled.

"Stop like- bothering Pence- *hic* Pence," Match stuttered.

Pencil showed a genuine smile, even though she knew Match had a little too much to drink.

"Oi am defending Poncil too!" Bubble put in.

Pencil didn't say anything, but appreciated Bubble defending her deep down.

"It was just a prank, Pencil," Blocky said before walking away to bother somebody else.

Woody, for some reason, saw Blocky and stared at him in admiration as he walked off. "WAH!" He yelled over the music.

"Woody...? What do you want?" Blocky was confused and couldn't understand what he was saying.

"Bah...wahwahwahwah!"

Blocky's proud facial expression turned into puzzlement. "What exactly would you want from me?"

"Wahwahwah...WAHWAH!" Woody's arms were erratic, flinging all over the place as he talked to Blocky, who still didn't understand a single word he said.

"Maybe use your hands to let me know what you're talking about."

Woody's face brightened up, an idea forming inside his head. He moved his arms and created a throwing motion, as if Blocky was throwing a water balloon at somebody.

"Something about throwing...oh! You want to throw a water balloon at somebody?"

"YAH!" He awkwardly smiled and put his hand out, waiting for Blocky to place one in his palm.

"The one time I speak to you and you want to play a prank on somebody?!" Blocky wrapped his own hand around Woody, sending shivers up Woody's spine.

"AH-!"

"This could be the start of something, Woody!" Blocky placed his beer down on a side table and handed Woody a real water balloon.

"Choose who you feel needs a prank played on them tonight."

"WAHUH!" Woody's awkwardness washed away for a moment as he examined the room full of people.

Needle! That's who he picks!

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

OH DAMN!! Things are getting heated here, huh? I apologize for how long this chapter is, but the sudden burst of motivation in me agreed to keep it this long.

The amount of shipping I snuck into this is CRAZY. I am a multi-shipper, so any chance I get to write my favorites, I do.

I hope I didn't write anybody out of character. I tried to keep it simple between who did and who didn't drink alcohol. But anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter! The next will be fun to write, too!

Apparently, this one has 10k words, wow.

Chapter 20: A Night to Forget.

TW: Vomit, use of alcohol, and mild swear words.

The party grows wilder. Firey, Match, and Eraser were drunk out of their minds, unable to function like they were able to hours ago.

The clock struck 11:30 PM.

Leafy wondered when her birthday party would finally come to a close, so she could deal with Firey alone and go to bed.

The dance floor wasn't even full of dancing anymore. Everyone moved around like wild animals in a zoo, waiting for their chance to escape.

"WOODY!" Needle screamed abruptly through the music that still played.

She stood stiffly as she narrowed her eyes at him. "Aw man, now I'm soaking wet!"

"That was great, Woody!" Blocky said enthusiastically. He let out a chuckle, and Woody chuckled back. "Baby's first prank. It only gets better from here."

Needle's anger suddenly shifted to Blocky, who just took the last sip of his second beer. He didn't want to get drunk, so that was the last of it for him. "Aw, man! I'm out of beer!"

"Soon you'll be out of my sight! What's wrong with you?!" Needle exclaimed, trying to push the anger back inside her.

"Blame Woody! He wanted to do this!!"

"But you inspired him! That's way worse!"

Woody's anxiety flooded right back to him once he saw them arguing. His legs shook and his arms became wobbly. "WAH!" He ran away screaming before Needle could say anything. "What do I do now?!"

"Dry yourself off in the bathroom, I guess," Blocky replied. He laughed with great satisfaction at how the prank went.

Needle was furious, Woody had fun (temporarily), and so did he. It was a win-win in Blocky's eyes.

Blocky walked away and went to Pen, who was taking care of Eraser.

Teardrop went by Needle and signed, "Damn, he got you good."

"Yep! If only I could get revenge...," Needle thought.

"Sounds more fun than this party," Teardrop signed in response.

Needle cackled at her response. "You're probably right."

"S-Someone's wet...HA!" Firey said without thought.

"Oh, shut it, Firey!"

"Alright, NEEDY!"

Her blood boiled, "Don't call me Needy!" She slapped him just like Leafy did. The Yoyle metal hurt her hand when she slapped him, though.

"You're an ass when you're drunk, Firey!"

"I know I have a b-big ass...," Firey replied idiotically.

"THAT'S NOT WHAT I SAID!!" Needle was furious, but laughed on the inside. "God dammit, Firey!"

"W-What? You mentioned an...an a-as-ass..."

"You're wasted. Come on, I'm bringing you to Leafy."

"Wait, what about our revenge plan?" Teardrop signed aggressively.

"Never mind that!" Needle quickly grabbed Firey's hand and dragged him alongside her. "Noooooo-"

"What's going on here, Needle?" Gelatin interrupted.

"I'm taking him to Leafy! He's pissing me off!"

"Haha...piss," Firey said with his eyes half closed.

Gelatin's expression went from exhausted to relieved. "That actually might be a good idea. Honestly, my head is killing me from pacing back and forth tonight."

"You're a good friend, Gelatin."

"Thanks," Gelatin replied, almost throwing up. "Sorry. Too many Capri-Suns, haha."

"Pfft- you're good." Needle waved goodbye to Gelatin and began dragging Firey alongside her again.

"Excuse me!" She said while passing everyone.

"Someone's wasted," Coiny teased while Needle walked past him. "S-Shut up...," Firey replied with unkindness.

Needle made her way back to Leafy, who sat there with tears in her eyes.

"It's supposed to be my birthday...," she said quietly to herself. "Maybe celebrating alone wasn't so bad after all."

"D-Don't cry, m-my love...," Firey responded to her cries.

Leafy's eyes lit up with hope. "Firey..? Needle...? What are you doing here?"

"I came to let you take care of Firey, but it seems you're already struggling. I can-"

"Sit him down in the chair, Needle." Leafy pulled out the chair next to her and patted it gently, waiting for Firey to be placed down.

"If you say so..." Needle delicately placed him down onto the chair, his eyes beginning to rest.

"Are you done putting up a fight, Firey?" Needle joked.

"I-I wasn't *hic* fighting n-nob-nobody!"

Leafy wrapped her arms around him, his eyes opening fully for the first time in two hours. "L-Let go of me, Island S-Stealer!"

Leafy let go of him, her hands trembling, her mind spiraling. Why would he say that to her?

"Firey!" Needle yelled at him, Book and Ice Cube watching.

"Needle, stop!" Leafy got up from her chair and stared Needle dead in the eye. "Just stop defending me...I'm not worth it."

Ice Cube had an abrupt look of guilt on her face, her stomach feeling empty.

"Wait, Leafy!" But she didn't wait. She stormed off into her room and locked the door, isolating herself from the party.

The clock struck 12 AM.

Firey rolled his eyes and played with the tablecloth. "What's...What's her f-fucking prob-problem?"

"HER problem?!? What's YOUR problem?!?"

"My *hic* problem?! WHAT'S YOUR PROBLEM!?!" He shot up from his seat, his tiredness fading away.

"I'm not doing this, Firey," Needle said in a low tone.

And she walked off. Leaving him all alone with his scrambled-up brain cells.

"You were a little harsh there, Firey," Ice Cube added. "Maybe you should apologize to-"

"N-No. She doesn't *hic* deserve it."

"Isn't she your girlfriend?" Book asked, infuriated by the way he was treating her. "She's probably viewing you very negatively right now."

"S-So what? Let her know she...she's an island steal-stealer." He said while tightening his fists with anger.

Ice Cube prevented Book from saying more and calmly got up from the couch. She briskly walked up to Firey, who looked half dead. "It's just the side effects of the alcohol, Firey. You'll know better tomorrow."

His eyes widened with realization. He knew what he did wrong, but he didn't. The alcohol prevented his brain from thinking clearly. Everything was foggy.

He grunted and plopped himself on the kitchen tile, the house shaking for a second from his metal. "Mm."

Ice Cube sighed and called Book to come and dance again. Book's happiness came to light as she got up to dance with her crush.

———————————————————

Leafy's POV: The music was loud, but not as loud as the thoughts in my mind.

Why couldn't I keep it all in like I did for all those years?!? Have I grown soft? Have I lost my strength?

Am I still not good enough?

I pace around my room, Apollo watching. "I know he's drunk, but that doesn't excuse how embarrassed he just made it!"

Apollo slightly tilted his head to the side, not knowing a single word that I said.

And I knew that.

"Fuck...," I whisper to myself.

"Book was watching. That was her FIRST impression of me! There goes my chance at a possible friendship!" I couldn't hold back any of my tears anymore. The river started to flow and wouldn't stop.

"I just want a friend to care...is that too much to ask for? Am I just—a dirty island stealer?!"

I glance at myself in the bedroom mirror: dirty dress, stained cheeks, messy makeup, and that damn yellow spot.

I ripped off my dress out of frustration, the sleeve ripping a little bit. I slam it on the ground as hard as I can and stomp on it, leaving footprint marks and stains. "STUPID DRESS! SO STUPID...SO...so...so s-stupid..."

But I could no longer be full of fury, only full of distress. I fell on my knees and placed my head in my hands, glitter still on them from the party hat, and sobbed.

Simple, isn't it? You hold it in for so long that it just flows right out like nothing.

Happy birthday, Leafy.

———————————————-

"Alright, Eraser. That's enough drinking for tonight...," Pen stated while grabbing Eraser's fifth beer out of his hand.

"Aw, c-come on!"

Pen taunted him with the beer held high over his cap, similar to what Pencil had done earlier to Blocky. "I'm not dealing with you when you're wasted again, Eraser. Remember last time?"

Eraser thought back on the moment, but couldn't remember a single thing. Most likely from being intoxicated. "Uh...s-sure."

Pen chuckled, knowing that Eraser was lying. "We've only been here for an hour and a half! How are you already drunk?"

Eraser's grip tightened around Pen's arm like a monkey on a tree branch. "Pen...I don't feel so—"

"Oh, do not throw up on me, Eraser!"

"I don't...don't think I can h-hold it much- *gag*"

Pen became alert and squeezed around everybody as fast as he could with Eraser still hanging on. "COMING THROUGH, SORRY!"

Pencil, who was now sitting in a corner with Match and Bubble, rolled her eyes with disgust. "Ugh. Get yourself a partner who isn't going to drink his ass off, Pen!"

"Y-Yeah! L-Like be more ma...mature," Match responded, still drunk as a sailor.

"Okay...maybe I shouldn't be saying that right now," Pencil added.

Pen ignored his sister and finally made his way past everybody. He threw Eraser into the bathroom and positioned him by the toilet.

Eraser instantly started throwing up, his skin paling with each hurl. Pen darted his eyes away from the throw-up and looked down at the bathroom tile.

Pen gently rubbed Eraser's back. "There you go, Eraser. That's it."

His throat burned as the mix of his stomach acid and beer shot out of his mouth into the toilet. "u-ugh." The throw up stopped for a moment, his eyes darting back at Pen's.

"Are you done?" Pen kindly asked.

"I don't think so...," Eraser replied with guilt.

"That fourth drink really got to you, huh?"

"Y-Yeah." Eraser's knees were cold from the bathroom tile, and his mind was full of haze. He waited in silence for more to come, and there it went.

His grip tightened around the ring of the bowl, and his body began to reject more of the beer, along with something he had eaten earlier.

Pen couldn't stand the sound or smell of throw up, but he wanted to stay. He loved Eraser and seeing him not feel well made his heart ache, even if it was his own fault.

Pen felt a ringing in his ears from the difference in volume. All he could hear was muffled vomiting and lowered music.

Eraser slowly lifted himself from the ground and flushed the toilet. "I'm done..."

"Alright. Let's wipe you off," Pen replied with a calm softness to his voice.

Vomit rested on Eraser's lip, and he smelled like it, too. Pen grabbed a tissue and dabbed it around Eraser's mouth, getting every corner.

Eraser flinched back, trying to make Pen stop wiping his mouth. "Stay still, Eraser," Pen scolded. "I'm only trying to help." He turned on the sink and scooped up warm water with his hand, pouring it over Eraser's face. "Mmm...," Eraser mumbled.

"Better?"

"T-Thanks, bro."

Pen smiled and wrapped his arms around Eraser's waist. "I'm glad."

————————————————-

The dance floor was no longer the only wild thing. Blocky and Woody pranked about everybody, besides Leafy, who was still locked away in her room.

Who knows if she was still crying? It seems that everyone forgot that it was a birthday party for a special someone.

Gelatin and Ruby ran around the house in circles from a sugar rush. They bounced off the walls and accidentally broke a couple of things. A candle, a glass bowl, and a vase full of flowers that Leafy picked from the garden last week.

Firey, who was the drunkest of them all, cradled himself on the kitchen floor, smiling. "That's b-broken!" He'd say every time Gelatin or Ruby broke something.

Gelatin only broke the glass bowl. The vase and the candle were Ruby's fault.

"Don't make me pay, pretty please, please, please!" She pleaded to Firey, who didn't even process that his house was a disaster.

"Heh..*hic* money...," He idiotically responded.

"So I don't have to pay? YAY!!!" Ruby stormed off and started to run more laps around the house. Banging into doors, hitting people, and sliding across the floor. "WOOHOO!!!" Flower watched her new girlfriend make a fool of herself, holding back her laughter.

Flower's makeup was still unscathed. Her face glowed with beauty and neatness, unlike those around her, who looked like total wrecks. "Ruby, calm down!" She shouted raspily.

But she kept going and going until she could no longer. Her face was pressed onto the floor tile, and she lay there as still as a tomb. "Sugar crash."

Gelatin held his stomach in pain, rocking back and forth as if he were in a hammock. "Is consuming three full packs of Capri-Sun in one night normal?"

Flower scoffed, disgusted by his sugar intake. "No! You need to go on a diet after that."

"Firey...help," Gelatin pleaded while tightening the grip around his stomach. "I feel so sick!"

Firey's expression went from clueless to angered. "You're...You're s-s-s-sick of me?!"

"Oh, right. I forgot you're drunk."

"Ruby, get the hell up," Pencil scolded. "What are you doing?!"

Ruby hiccuped, then steadily lifted her head. "The suggies got to my tummy!"

She rolled her eyes. "And apparently your brain. Come on, we're getting ready to dip soon."

"Dip sounds good right now. Maybe I can take home the leftovers."

Pencil lightly slapped Ruby on top of the head. "I already have a drunk idiot to deal with. I don't need another."

"I'm not drunk! I didn't even have anything," She protested.

"I don't mean that you're literally drunk! I'm saying that you are acting drunk!"

"Oh...whoops." Ruby lifted herself and turned to Flower, who sat on a cushioned chair, drinking out of a water cup. "FLOWER!!!"

Flower was startled by Ruby's sudden call and jumped up like a cat. "What is it, Ruby?"

"Hi."

Flower blinked slowly and placed her water cup in her lap. "Hi..."

Match, who was hanging over Pencil's shoulder, stared at them with an angered expression. "Is R-Ruby like...dating *hic* her?"

Pencil wasn't sure if this question was for her or Bubble, but she answered it anyway. "I think so...why?"

"Wo-Wow, okay," Match replied leisurely.

Pencil's head was pounding from dealing with the idiots surrounding her AND the music that still looped through her ears. "What are you even talking about, Match?"

"Oi don't think she's feeling well, Poncil. Loik at her," Bubble said with a concerned expression on her face.

Match looked like she got run over by the Freesmart Supervan. Her eyeshadow was smeared and almost nonexistent, and her arms dangled as if she had no control of them. "I-I'm fine, Bubble!"

Out of nowhere, Snowball barges into the room with Fries, who has Rocky in his hands. Rocky was stained with globs of mud from the ground, and his eyes were crossed. "What the hell is wrong with Match?" Snowball asked Pencil.

"Nothing!"

Snowball cackled loudly, his breath smelling like cigarettes. "That's a drunk girl if I've ever seen one!"

"Well... your little friend, Eraser, was throwing up a storm in the bathroom earlier. So I suggest you shut your fucking mouth," Pencil snapped. She wasn't having it with him right now. She couldn't stand talking to boys, especially her brother's friends.

Snowball pauses and glances at the floor, which is full of broken pieces of glass. "Is he okay?"

"How should I know?!? He's your friend. You deal with it. I have two idiots to keep an eye on right now!"

"I didn't go to gem school!" Ruby cried, getting slightly offended by what Pencil called her.

"That beer was not worth getting drunk off of," Fries interrupted. "I've had better."

Rocky abruptly slid out of Fries's arms and onto the messy floor. He shot out a wet stream of vomit right near Pencil's feet, causing her to snap.

"THAT IS IT! ANY BOYS IN THE ROOM, OUT, NOW!"

Snowball and Fries blankly stared at her, waiting for her to complain more.

But she didn't. She suddenly looked sadder, as if she had been called an insult.

"Poncil...are you okay?" Bubble asked, grabbing onto her open shoulder.

"I'm fine."

"S-She's fineeeeeee," Match inserted in, making Pencil throw her a side eye of disappointment.

"I'm done for tonight, let's go-"

"WAIT!"

Who was that?

Gelatin stood up proudly, despite having the worst stomach pain of his life right now. "I have something to hype this birthday party UP!"

Pencil rolled her eyes, but listened to what he had to say. "What is it, Gelatin?"

"CONFETTI CANON!!!" Gelatin grabbed his phone and changed the song to "Fire Burning."

Flower groaned, but gave in to getting up and dancing again when Ruby held out her hand. "The suggies in my tummy aren't bothering me anymore, Flower!! Let's dance!"

Flower's face turned as pink as her petals as she saw the glisten in Ruby's eyes. "If you say so, but I won't be cleaning up your throw-up if it gets to that point!"

"Hehe, gotcha!!!" Ruby sprinted to the same area as before and pulled Flower around. "SPIN ME! SPIN ME!"

Flower no longer felt the need to filter herself and lifted Ruby. She spun her in circles, making Ruby flex her clean teeth once more. "THIS IS SO MUCH FUN!!"

Pen, who held Eraser's hand in a separate room, saw the dance floor become crowded again. "More chaos?" He thought to himself. "Why are we dancing again? It's almost 1 AM!"

But the fun guy inside of him wanted to get in a circle and dance with his buddies.

"Eraser, are you able to-"

"Go have f-fun, Pen...," Eraser replied, drowsy and drunk.

"Are you sure? I don't want you to be alone, I-"

"I can keep an eye on him, Pen...," Needle interrupted. "I'm not in the mood to dance anymore anyway."

Pen's expression softened, expressing a kind smile at her. "Thanks, Needle."

Coiny and Pin hid in Firey's room, talking about date ideas to distract themselves from the chaos cooking outside.

"A date at the beach wouldn't be so bad," Coiny mentioned. "I can picture us having a good time swimming in the ocean, ha!"

"Any restaurant would be amazing, too," Pin replied, blushing.

"Yeah, but that's so old school! We've done that so many times and-"

Coiny's sentence halted, as he was unable to process what he was about to reply when the music turned back up.

"Again?!?" Pin shouted, growing frustrated. "Gelatin doesn't know when to stop!"

"Maybe we should go out there, Pin. We've been in here for an hour, and I'm sure everything's died down by now!"

Pin narrowed her eyes, looking at Coiny as if he had two heads. "Are you kidding me, Coiny? It has not died down! I heard glass break not too long ago."

"I just want to dance with you, Pin!" Coiny's face was almost as red as Pin's from all the blushing.

"Fine. I'm only doing this for you, though," Pin groaned as she grabbed his hand.

The dance floor was packed once Coiny and Pin walked in.

Gelatin was somehow drinking more Capri-Sun's by the party speakers, Book and Ice Cube were hugging, Flower and Ruby were dancing, Pencil cradled Match in her arms while she watched Bubble party, Pen, Blocky, and Snowball all talked loudly while Woody stood close by, and Teardrop stood there with Rocky next to her, her eyes darting towards him to make sure he didn't throw up.

And Fries? Well, he sat there on the floor, tired and hungry. He didn't really eat much of the food served, and he regretted it.

"Ugh...I'm starving!!!"

"Maybe you should've eaten something before you went digging outside," Snowball said, half drunk, half normal.

Fries ignored Snowball's statement and went on about himself. "Why am I still here anyway? I have work tomorrow!!! I want to go to bed!"

"Why don't you take the day off?" Snowball suggested, awaiting Fries's response.

"I can't! I need the money...even though I couldn't give less of a shit about the job itself."

Gelatin overheard Fries mention his job and ran up to him, still energetic from the sugar. "Fries!!! How's TB and I guess...GB been?!? They should've come to the party!"

Fries and Gelatin were complete opposites. Fries was exhausted and couldn't even bother trying to sound energetic, while Gelatin was lively and kept the party going.

"They've been fine, I guess. I don't really talk to them. I know TB wanted to come, but GB said no because of the germs or whatever."

"Tsk- he should've come! I would've made sure he had a good time and-"

Fries was fed up with his energy level. He just wanted to relax. "Gelatin, respectfully, shut up. I need to rest my eyes."

"Oh, okay. I guess I'll catch you later, Fries!"

"Yep." Fries didn't hate Gelatin, but he wasn't in the mood to talk to him. He felt himself wind down by the minute.

Gelatin made his way to Coiny and Pin, who were now singing the song, "Stereo Hearts."

"Hey, party people!" Gelatin exclaimed while sipping on his Capri-Sun. "I'm happy to see you guys back on the dance floor!"

Coiny chuckled. "Oh, yeah! You know, it's been a great time, even if we needed to take some little breaks, haha!"

Pin rolled her eyes at her boyfriend, but did it out of love, not sass. "Yeah, it actually hasn't been as bad as I thought it would be."

Maybe because Leafy wasn't around...for some strange reason.

Gelatin's smile was the brightest in the room. "I'm glad everyone is having a good time, really!"

"Yeah, me too! Leafy's lucky to have so many people here for her," Coiny added.

Gelatin's heart sank. "Wait...where's Leafy?!?"

"You're just noticing?" Pin groaned.

"H-How was I so clueless?!? Where is she?!" Gelatin was now full of panic, and his stomach hurt more than ever before from the worry and amount of sugary juice inside of him.

"Chill, Gelatin. I'm sure she's okay, right?" Coiny tried to brush it off, but deep down, he felt horrible.

"I'll go find her...," Pin said quietly.

Coiny's face lit up in shock, not expecting her to care enough to go searching for her.

Was it because she didn't want to dance? Or was it because she actually cared?

"Pin...are you sure? I can come if you-"

Pin took a deep breath. "I've got this, okay? You have fun." She kissed him on the cheek and left.

——————————————————

Leafy's POV: I lay on the floor, my eyes bloodshot red from crying so much.

Pull yourself together, Leafy. It'll be okay. The party will end before you know it.

The clock ticks...but it meant nothing to me now. Each hour, the party grew wilder.

What hope do I have left?

"Nothing," the voice of Evil Leafy responded.

"SHUT UP!" I gripped the carpet beneath me, pulling at the loose threads.

*Knock Knock.*

Great. Who is it?

"Whoever you are...go away," I responded.

"It's Pin."

My eyes widened, unable to process the fact that Pin was the one to check on me. "Come in..."

Pin opened the door. Her makeup was smeared, but in better condition than mine. She was standoffish. I could tell by the way she avoided eye contact with me. "I'm not really uh- good at this sorta thing...but, are you- okay?"

I chose not to respond. My throat was burning with a dry sensation from all the crying.

"Look...I already told you, you can't run away from your problems. That will only make it worse."

I still don't respond. I just...stare. Like a robot that was programmed to listen, but not think for itself.

"You have...a lot of people that care about you. You may not see it, but you do."

I did. That's the keyword. Did. She was forgetting that part.

Her face was no longer soft and delicate, but full of frustration. "Aren't you going to say something back?!"

I couldn't. I wanted to just...run. Run and never come back. The thought of Firey's face made me angry right now, almost as if we had broken up.

"Leafy...," Pin came close to me and knelt on the carpet, trying to catch my attention back. "I can't help you much if you don't tell me what's wrong."

It was him. That's what's wrong. It was this stupid party. That was another wrong thing.

It was me. That's what's really wrong.

"Why are you acting like you care?" I snapped. I wasn't in the mood to express my feelings.

I never am. I just want to shove it in my pocket and never take it out.

Pin recoiled back and sighed. "Are you mad that I'm asking if you're okay?!"

I wasn't mad, just curious. "I don't know." I wipe my tears and turn my body away from Pin, facing the wall.

"You've always had a problem with showing your emotions, Leafy."

Why was she right?! "N-No! I can show how I feel, look! Look, I'm doing it right now! See?!?" I look her in the face, my eyes filled to the brim with tears of pain from tonight's party. "IS THIS SHOWY ENOUGH FOR YOU?!" I huff and puff, my breath erratic. Almost as if I forgot how to breathe like a normal person.

Pin looked horrified, almost as if she was looking at my aggressive, metal version of myself.

It's like my words were the sharp knife I held close to me back in Yoyleland. "Pin...I-"

Pin's horrified expression faded away. "Tell me what happened."

"What?"

"Tell me what he said to you because I know this is his fault. You wouldn't act like this if it were just about the party."

Silence.

"Is it something to do with your past that was brought up?"

Stop reading me. Stop reading me like a damn book. "N-No..."

"Fine. If you don't want to talk about it, fine. But I'm telling you, holding it in does not help."

Talking about it never helps either. "I'd prefer to just...sulk."

"Okay. Okay, fine. But just know, it's your birthday. You...deserve to have fun and celebrate. It's not okay that you're sitting here crying, alone."

Her words hit me like a bus. I know it wasn't right, but what can I do? Put on a happy face?

Wait. That's exactly what I'll do!

"You're right," I mumbled between my tears.

"Maybe I should go have fun. Before it's all over."

Pin glanced at the dress that was ruined on the floor, then at the bag of gifts in the corner of my room. "Maybe you can put on that pink skirt Flower bought you."

That was a perfect idea! "I'll think about it."

"Just...come out when you're ready." Pin lifted herself off the floor and headed out the door. Apollo tried to leave as well, but she pushed him back. "Stay."

I weakly got up and wobbled towards the door, directing Apollo's attention to me. "Come on, buddy. In here!"

Apollo whimpered and lay back down, saddened by the fact that he couldn't go where the party was.

"It's almost over, Apollo. I'll let you roam free then."

Pin let out a genuine chuckle, then went to close the door fully.

But she said something before I was fully isolated again.

"Leafy...?"

"What is it?"

"I'm sorry for being a bad girlfriend all those years ago."

I was silent. I didn't know what to say or think. Wasn't I the bad one? My mind was foggy. I couldn't remember any moments from our relationship besides the part where we split up.

I raised my voice at her, but I wasn't angry. I was hurt. She broke up with me because I...

I couldn't remember. My brain tuned it all out. Yoyleland fucked me up badly.

"Wait, Pin—!"

But she closed the door and walked off.

————————————————-

Coiny was talking to Pen and Blocky when Pin returned.

Coiny paused his conversation and turned to Pin.

"Pin! Did you find her?"

"Yep."

"Is she...coming?"

"Who the hell knows..."

"Find who?" Pen asked, curious about what Coiny meant.

"Leafy's been hiding away in her room," Pin answered, even though the question was for Coiny.

Pen's friendly smile dissolved. "Wait, but isn't it her birthday?"

"Yeah, it is! I didn't know she was in her room. I thought she was still in the other room," Coiny replied, guilt on his face.

Pen nodded. "So did I!"

"Can she come out so I can prank the birthday girl?" Blocky teased with a widened smirk on his face.

"Blocky!" Pen groaned. "This isn't the time for joking around!"

His smirk faded. "Sorry, bro."

Pin felt a sudden nudge on her side, making her tighten up for a second.

"PIN!!!" Leafy shouted, now in a new outfit and with perfected makeup. "How do I look?! Pretty?!? HAPPY?!? YOU CHOOSE!!"

Pin was suddenly annoyed. When she told Leafy to come out and have fun, she didn't mean for her to act like this. "The skirt looks cute on you."

"OHHHHH, WHY THANK YOU!!" Leafy was energetic and full of love to give. "There's a LOT of things I would like to do before the night is over!!"

Pen and Blocky glanced at each other, then at Coiny and Pin. "What's up with her?" Blocky whispered to Coiny.

"She's excited, I guess," Coiny whispered back.

Leafy noticed the energy between the group died down once she walked in. "Haha uh, did I do something wrong...?"

The music was the only thing answering her.

"Hmph! I'll be on my way, then. Come on, Pin." She grabbed Pin's hand and started dragging her, her eyes widening at Leafy's sudden action. "WHAT?!? LET ME GO!!"

Leafy smiled with pure joy, leaving the other side of her in the bedroom. "Haha, Pin! You still are as stubborn as you were all those years ago!"

"Leafy, let her go!" Coiny called out, confused by her action.

Leafy stopped walking away for a second, eyes all on her. "You get to have her allll the time!! Let me hang out with my best friend for once!"

"Uhm...we aren't best friends, Leafy," Pin snapped.

"Very funny, Pin!" Leafy smiled through the frustration that built up inside of her. She could snap at any given moment, but she had to keep playing along.

This is how everyone wants her to be, right?

"FLOWER!!!" Leafy yelled over the music to catch her attention.

Flower turned herself away from Ruby, who was yapping about her favorite candies...for some reason. "Leafy? You're wearing the skirt I got you already?"

Leafy let go of Pin, her body slamming onto the hard floor, and spun around like a ballerina. "Ah? What do you think?"

Flower awkwardly stared at Leafy, who was spinning around like an idiot. "It's cute on you, but why'd you take the dress off?"
Leafy thought of the ruined dress on the floor in her room. "I felt like wearing something different!"

Flower raised an eyebrow, then accepted Leafy's answer. "Oh, okay."

Ruby pushed Flower aside and stared at Leafy's pink, ruffled skirt for a moment, then directed her attention back at Flower. "Flower, I want a pretty little tutu!! Do you sell those at your shop?!"

"I can make you one-"

"OH MY GUMDROP!! YES PRETTY PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!"

Flower rolled her eyes at Ruby, then turned it into a softened smile. "Sure!"

Pin picked herself up and stood behind Leafy awkwardly. She wanted to go back and hang out with Coiny, but she couldn't.

"Thanks for the compliment, Flower!! Enjoy the rest of your night!!" Leafy said.

Before Flower could respond, Leafy skipped away with Pin being dragged along once again.

Pin finally spoke up. "Leafy, why the hell are you acting like this?!"

"Acting like what?"

"You know EXACTLY what I mean. Dragging me along? Faking your way through the rest of the night? This isn't what I wanted you to do, Leafy. I wanted you to be normal."

Leafy pulled away from Pin's arm, which had a mark on it from her grip. "What...?"

"Don't what me! You are VERY aware of your actions, Leafy!"

"I'm not! So please just-"

"I should've known...you're the same fucking faker from all those years ago. I had hoped that you finally changed, but I guess I was wrong."

Leafy looked like she was stabbed in the chest, betrayed and forgotten. As if she were under that tree in Yoyleland, passed out with nobody nearby. "You take those words back... I-I have changed!"

Pin knew her words were too much, but she kept going. "What? You stopped being a homeless psychopath in Yoyleland? Good for you! What else have you changed?"

Leafy's fists clenched, as if she had the knife in her hand, ready to stab or throw at any second. "I have changed, Pin. I changed a lot...all because of him."

Leafy thought of all the comfort Firey brought her. She wishes that he were in the right mindset to come and defend her, but at the same time, she didn't.

She wanted nothing to do with him right now, maybe even for a few days. She wasn't sure what she wanted to do.

"You still can't control yourself. You know that, right?" Pin was pushing Leafy's buttons at this point.

"I do...I know I suck at it, I-"

Leafy trembled, her body feeling like bugs crawling under her skin.

"I...I can control myself!"

Pin was witnessing Leafy go crazy right in front of her very own eyes. She felt the guilt ram into her. The words overflowed like a bathtub. "Leafy..."

The blaring music...the eyes watching Leafy...the amount of whispering...the way the dancing stopped once the arguing broke out.

Leafy couldn't take it anymore. She ran up to Gelatin, who sat on a chair holding his stomach. "Give me your phone," she demanded.

"What? W-*gag* Why?!"

She yanked it out of his hand, turned off the music, and disconnected the Bluetooth.

"What happened to the music?!?" Everyone asked.

"SORRY, EVERYONE, PARTY'S OVER!"

"Aww...," Ruby said with disappointment.

Gelatin's energy drained out of him like a child getting their ice cream taken away. "Wait! What about the confetti cannon?! I didn't get to-"

"OUT!"

But nobody moved. Everyone stared, except Pin. She looked at the floor, guilty of Leafy's crash out.

"ARE YOU GOING TO GO OR WHAT?!" She was out of breath from screaming so loudly.

The room's silence ended, and was now full of laughter that started from the Freesmarters.

"LEAFY! WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT, AHAHAHA!!" Pencil shouted.

"T-That was *hic* l-like...tots an overreaction," Match added.

"I should've known she was the same!" Ice Cube added, Book next to her.

Bubble jumped on the hate train. "Oi avoided Loify for that reason!!"

Teardrop signed, "I thought you were kinder than this, Leafy." And shook her head in disappointment.

Leafy was full of shame. She has never felt so embarrassed before.

Pencil dropped an empty can of Diet Coke on the ground. "Let's go, Freesmart. Leafy doesn't deserve a party like this anyway!"

Ruby waved goodbye to Flower and kissed her on the hand, making Flower blush.

Ruby, Bubble, Book, and Ice Cube followed Pencil, who was holding Match, out to the back door.

Ruby placed her hands on her hips and blew a raspberry at Leafy, causing Leafy to become even angrier than she already was.

They collectively walked out the door, not muttering a single thank you out of their mouths.

Then everyone else started to follow, besides Gelatin and Fries. Gelatin was begging for everyone to stay, but nobody listened.

Woody screamed and ran out the door quicker than anybody else. He didn't like it when people yelled at him, so he was terrified.

Fries was fast asleep on the floor, snoring.

"Uh...thanks for having us, Leafy," Coiny politely said, trying not to strike a nerve.

"Yeah," Leafy replied, tears in her eyes.

Pin was holding Coiny's hand, but didn't say anything. She stared at the floor, knowing any eye contact with Leafy would cause trouble.

Flower wanted to say thank you, but she didn't want to at the same time. She decided not to, keeping it safe. She went out the back door looking the same way she did when she first walked in.

The group of boys picked themselves up and stormed off as quickly as they could, Pen being the only one to say thank you. "Thank you for having us, Leafy. Happy birthday..."

Leafy appreciated his kindness, but didn't say anything back. She was tired, frustrated, and ready to flop herself into bed and never wake up.

"Here's your boyfriend...," Needle said while still sitting on the couch.

"Oh, yeah. Come on, Eraser. The party's over."

"U-Ugh...fin-finally," he mumbled.

"Thanks for looking after him. I appreciate it."

Needle softly smiled. "Oh, of course!"

Pen carried Eraser out while Snowball and Blocky followed, Needle leaving a bit afterwards.

Teardrop briskly walked past Leafy with her arms crossed and an annoyed expression displayed on her face. She flung the back door open and marched out.

Rocky came last and, for the first time, looked angry at Leafy. "PLEH!" And vomit went all over the floor next to her.

"No, my confetti cannon!!" Gelatin shouted again, in a ball on the floor, holding his stomach.

"Get up, Gelatin!" Leafy shouted at him.

But he couldn't. His stomach pains were so bad. He just needed to throw up, and it would all go away. "It hurts, Leafy!! Have mercy!!"

Leafy felt bad and picked him up off the floor. "Try throwing up in the bathroom." She trotted to the open bathroom door and tossed him in there, slamming the door.

Leafy walked back to where Fries was, his body resting on the hard ground. "WAKE. UP!" She exclaimed while clapping between each word.

Fries opened his eyes slowly, as if he were waking up from a long coma. "W-What? Oh."

"Fun's over."

"What fun?" Fries said dryly back.

"OUT!"

"Whatever." He picked himself up, lit a cigarette, then walked out the door.

Leafy stared at the dance floor full of beer stains, crushed cans, and crumbs. "God...what have I done...I've made a fool of myself."

The music no longer played, leaving a ringing in her ears. The silence in the room matched how she felt. Empty.

All she could hear was Gelatin throwing up in the bathroom and Firey groaning on the ground.

2:30 AM.

——————————————————-

"Match...GET IN THE VAN!!!" Pencil shouted out of frustration.

"I d-don't wanna!"

"Well, too bad!"

"WAAAA I WANNA GO HOMEEEEE!" Ruby whined.

"BOOK, CONTROL HER PLEASE...," Pencil demanded, stressed out by her drunk girlfriend not getting in the backseat.

"Ruby, please calm down...," Book said calmly.

"Okay, sorry."

Pencil dragged Match in the van, but she somehow got out again and again and again. "I'm about to fucking leave you here, Match."

"N-No! Don't *hic* l-like do that."

Book got up from her seat and tapped Pencil's back.

"WHAT is it, Book?!"

"Uh...do you want me to help you pull her in?"

Pencil's frustration faded a bit, but not fully. "Why not?"

Book and Pencil tugged at Match's arms, and she finally got inside, not escaping this time.

"We-We did it!" Book shouted.

"Yeah, whatever. Let's go," Pencil replied.

Book expected a thank you back, but brushed it off. "Oh, okay."

Pencil sighed with relief. "Book, Ice Cube, deal with her while I drive, okay?"

"Alright," they both responded.

Pencil starts to drive, then notices a black Cadillac following too close behind. "Who's driving up our asses right now?!"

Ruby looks back and tries to make out who's driving it, but can't. "Uh, my eyesight isn't that good, sorry," she said sorrowfully.

The car being that close really bothered Pencil. She wanted to flip them off, but couldn't.

*BUMP!*

"DID THEY JUST HIT MY VAN?!?" Pencil screams, startling Ruby. "OH, THESE ASSHOLES!!!"

The car sped around the van, now side to side with it.

The Cadillac on the left, the Freesmart Supervan on the right.

Pencil screamed out the window, "OPEN YOUR WINDOW, NOW!!"

The window opened, and a water balloon was thrown at her face, making her all wet. "GAH-!"

"AHAHAHAHA I FINALLY GOT YOU!!!" Blocky shouted while driving. "I wasn't going to go home knowing you didn't get wet once."

"YOU SCRATCHED THE BACK OF MY VAN JUST FOR THAT-?!?"

"Yeah...pretty much," he replied nonchalantly.

"Aw, fuck you, man!"

"Blocky...why'd you do that to her!" Someone said from the back seat.

"YOU HAVE THE OTHERS IN THERE WITH YOU, TOO?!?"

"Pencil, eyes on the road-"

"I KNOW THAT, BOOK!"

The back windows of the car rolled down, revealing Pen and Eraser. "Sorry about that, sis," Pen said.

"Eugh...a car full of boys AND my brother?! How can this night get any worse?"

"Hey! It's better than a car full of girls!"

"Haha, y-yeah," Eraser added, still out of it.

"Pencil's just mad she got wet," Snowball shouted from the trunk.

"Why are you in the trunk?"

"He's too fat," Blocky teased.

"HEY! This is all MUSCLE, not fat!"

Pen laughed at the arguing between Blocky, Snowball, and his sister. "Alright, alright. Settle down."

"Yeah, I'm done with this. See you tomorrow, Pen." Pencil closed her window and sped up, moving the van far away from Blocky's car.

"What a bunch of idiots..."

———————————————

Leafy's POV.

The house was silent. Everyone was finally gone (yes, even Gelatinn.)

I stared down at Firey, who lay on the kitchen floor surrounded by three beer cans. The smell of alcohol lingered in the air around him. His body was lying stiffly on the hard floor, his eyes beginning to open.

"Get up, Firey."

"buh-wuh? w-what happened...haha."

"You. That's what happened."

"Where's the p-party a-*hic* at?!"

"I ended it."

"W-What?! I was just-*hic* just gettin' started!"

I examined the floor around him. Empty cans, spilled beer, and a note.

I picked up the note and read what it said. "To, Firey: I have never seen you drink this much before, but just know that I won't let you forget it! >:D- from Coiny."

I chuckled at the ridiculous note, but stopped and placed it on the counter. "You're a wreck, Firey."

"S-So are *hic* y...you, beautiful."

"How many beers did you drink...?" I can't lie, I was concerned about how much he had.

"Eh...only like ei-eight," he replied nonchalantly.

"ARE YOU CRAZY?!?"

"Coo-coo!"

"Get the fuck up, now."

"I d-don't w-want to! I'm comfortable."

"On the dirty kitchen floor?! Yeah, no."

"Haha, d-dirty."

"What?" He was speaking complete nonsense, and I couldn't take it much longer.

This had been the worst night of my life. I think I'd rather be back in Yoyleland than experience that embarrassment ever again.

I should've stayed in my room, out of sight. Why did I have to act so- foolish?!? I thought faking my way through everything would go well, but no!

Pin had to ruin it.

"L-Leafy...you-you're sososo pr-pretty and c-cool. Will you...be my girl-girl*hic*friend?"

This made me blush, but I didn't want him to know that. "We're already a thing, dumbass."

"WE ARE?!? Oh- g-goodness! How did-did that *hic* happen?!"

"Magic."

"W-Where's your mag-magic wand?!? You fucking- *hic* fraud."

I couldn't help but burst into laughter, even though I was still angry at him. "That's my sign to take you to bed."

"N-No!!!" He whined like a child.

"Do I need to pick you up like you're five?"

"Five...four...t-three...tw-two...one...b-boom."

What? "I guess so."

I go to pick him up, but the metal is too heavy. "Ugh...god. I can't even lift you up."

"DON'T T-TOUCH ME, B-BITCH!" He slapped me in the arm.

I shook it off, even though it bothered me. Why would he hit me?!? I know he's drunk, but that gives him no excuse. "Okay, Firey. Get up, now!"

I felt a sudden shift in my body, as if I had changed for a second. "Get up..."

Firey got up quicker than ever before and grabbed onto my hand. "T-That was sc-scary."

What? "Stop speaking nonsense, Firey..."

"Y-You were red like a- *hic* to-tomato!"

I was pale for a moment. I felt my stomach become empty, as if I had thrown up just like Gelatin. "Very funny, Firey..."

"I'm-I'm ser-serious!" His face was full of uneasiness, almost as if he truly was being serious about this.

"You're seeing things. You're drunk as a sailor, remember?" But it still bothered me. I felt the change, I felt my body feel...different. I didn't like it.

His face was droopy, as if he were about to pass out at any second. "I-I am NOT dr-drun *hic* drunk!"

"You look like a child who fell asleep on the couch and needed to be brought up to bed," I teased.

"m-my mom used- *hic* to do t-that to me..."

Oh. "Mine too."

Firey looked up at me, like a scared, lost child. "I m-miss my mom."

"I know." I couldn't tell if he was being serious or if the beer was making him more emotional than usual.

"I r-really d-do."

I open the door to Firey's bedroom, leaving the mess from the party on the outside. I'll clean it up tomorrow.

"Hop in." He chuckled and flailed his arms around while I brought him into his room. I set him upright on his bed, but he fell right down into his fireproof sheets.

"Ooo~ so cozy..."

I rolled my eyes at him and turned away to exit the room. "Goodnight, Fireball," I said with annoyance.

"W-Wait-*hic*" He grabbed my waist and pushed me into him with a tight hug. "Don't you- *hic* leave me all alone."

My heart ached with sorrow. I didn't want to leave him all alone, especially on a night like this. "What could you possibly need?"

"A- A hand...of c-comfort...," he replied softly. "A s-sense of l-love."

"Fine, Firey, but I'm not staying the whole night." I was still upset with him.

Firey patted the left side of the bed. "Come."

I uncomfortably climbed into the bed as it creaked from Firey's metal weight. "Move over, would you?" I had no room for myself.

"buh-uh...m-move c-closer to me!" He gripped me tightly, my waist hurting like hell.

"Calm down, would ya? I'm getting as close as I can get!" As I inched closer, the smell of alcohol grew around me. I felt like I could get drunk off the smell.

A few minutes pass by, and he hasn't said a word, nor have I. "Are you feeling okay, Firey?"

His eyes softened as he stared at my worried expression. "L-Leafy...?"

I sighed heavily. "What is it?" I was gentle with my words.

His grasp became even tighter. "You w-won't *hic* ever l...l-leave me, ri-right?"

His face grew discolored as he held back tears of worry. "P-Please *hic* stay..." "Firey...where is all this coming from? I'm not going anywhere anytime soon. I promise you that."

He started to fully cry, the first time I've seen him be able to do this without being in pain. "Are y-you sure?"

"I'm sure."

"Don't..." He lost the thought of his words. "Don't d-die on me."

My eyes widened, my body feeling numb. "I'm not going to, Firey."

I wiped away his tears and cuddled up next to him, our love uniting once more.

Firey was loopy, but understood that we were together and that he loved me.

Our moment of love was interrupted by his sudden rolling out of bed.

I felt his grasp let go, his body tumbling onto the floor. *THUD!*

"OH MY GOSH, FIREY! ARE YOU OKAY?!"

He laughed. He didn't cry, he didn't scream, he laughed. "AHAHAHA-! Oh...I need to vomit."

My eyes widened at his sudden mention of vomit. "BATHROOM, NOW," I screamed.

He squeezed his stomach in pain. "I don't- *gag* think I'll make it..."

I sprang up, speedily grabbed his hand, and made it as close to the bathroom as I could before he...vomited.

"I c-can't- *gag* m-make..."

And there it all went. Right by the bathroom door.

My legs were aching more than ever before from running and pulling him around, causing me to fall to my knees as I heard him throw up.

It sounded painful. Almost as if a demon was coming out of his body.

"F-Firey?" I said, my voice trembling.

He continued to groan and mumble to himself as he lay on the floor, gagging and vomiting.

This lasted about ten minutes.

I placed him back in bed, his body frail, just like mine. "Is it all out of your system yet?"

"u-ugh...I think so," he replied weakly. "I-I don't feel *hic* too great..."

I wonder why. "I hope you feel better."

"T-Thanks...I l-love you."

But I didn't say it back. Instead, I nodded and left to go to my own bedroom. "Goodnight, Firey.

"Goodnight, Leafy."

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

I've been so quick with these. haha! School starts tomorrow, though, so don't expect too many :(

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 21: RUN, and DON'T Look back.

/WARNING FOR BL00D!/

Leafy's POV:

I woke up from the worst night of sleep of my life.

Two hours of sleep.

I think I slept better in Yoyleland.

This morning, I felt worse than usual, almost as if I was being held down by something.

Everything felt worse...except for my legs.

I sprang out of bed, exhausted from the night before, the bags under my eyes defining me, and moved around with full mobility.

The aches and pains had disappeared when I walked, making me feel free again. Maybe things will get better!

Until I remembered: Firey's immaturity, the embarrassment from last night, and Pin.

They all hate me again, I know it. I threw away my months' worth of progress in one moment. How foolish.

I walk to the mirror to check on my biggest insecurity: my yellow spot.

I had hoped that it had gotten better, since my legs felt as if they were never in pain before.

But I was wrong. The yellow spot had grown and covered the edges of my right side.

"No...no, no, no, no, no..." I backed away from the mirror, my heart racing in fear.

"OW-!" I yell as I feel an unexpected sharp pain strike the corner of my right side. "W-What?!"

My leaf had a tear, almost as if I were crumbling. "No...please..." I place my hand over the scar, removing the ability to see it.

"GOD DAMN IT-!" And the whole house shook. I don't know why, but it shook.

I needed to go. I needed to run before he sees me like this and breaks up with me.

I burst open the bedroom door, Apollo standing nearby. I sprint as fast as I can to the front door, but Firey catches me.

"Leafy...?" He says weakly while wrapped in a tan blanket.

His eyes weren't full of light, his warmth didn't surround me, and his body was droopy. "What are you doing?" He walked up to me and tried grabbing my hand, but I pulled my hand away and placed it on my face.

I cover half my face with my hands, holding back anger and tears. "I need to go-"

"What's wrong, my love?"

"NOTHING!"

Firey saw that I was covering myself and became concerned. "Are you okay...? Please, calm-"

"LET ME LEAVE, GOD DAMN IT!"

"You're scaring me, Leafy! Why are you acting like this?!"

I turned around, hiding my face under my sweaty hands, not saying a word.

"I didn't mean for the party to get out of control, I-"

"You drank on purpose, Firey. You wanted to get drunk, you wanted chaos..."

I paused and glanced at the floor with my one open eye. "Look at how ruined your house is, Firey!"

His eyes were full of fatigue and guilt, like a child who broke something. "I didn't want this to happen, Leafy-"

"Then why did you let it happen?"

He went to speak, but nothing came out. It's almost as if someone had a remote and paused at the wrong time.

"Don't l-leave...," he said with pain in his voice.

I needed to go, no matter what. Not because I was still mad at him, but because of my face. I can't be seen like this, not at all. "I'm sorry, Firey."

I flung open the door, Firey trying to stop me, but he was too weak from last night.

I ran as fast as I could, far away from his house, while I covered my face in worry.

It's like I was granted back my leg strength for this reason. To run, to never look back.

To live like I used to, alone. Someone, or something, is telling me this is right.

"Run, run, RUN!"

I didn't know where I was going, what was going to happen, or how I'd function.

I guess I have to wait to find out.

And who cares if it's good or bad...as long as I'm not seen like this.

Firey's POV:

No...No, this can't be happening to me.

Why'd she run away again?! Is she going to be okay?!? What if she runs so far that I never find her again?!?

My mind raced with so many thoughts, even though it was still foggy from the alcohol.

I shouldn't have drunk; I shouldn't have been so irresponsible.

I usually don't drink too much at parties, only one or two if I'm in the mood.

But this time?! I went overboard, and I don't understand why, especially on Leafy's birthday.

I feel so sick. At any given moment, I can throw up, just like last night. I remember bits of that because it was painful.

I don't remember what I did to make her upset, but I hope it wasn't too bad.

Besides that, my biggest concern was the way she covered her face before she left.

What could she be hiding from me?! I needed to find out, but I don't want to make her upset if I chase her around again.

God, I thought she'd stop running away from her problems at this point!

She's told me before that she'd never run away again, but I guess that was a lie.

Why was she so...so angry? I've never seen her like that before. She's usually kind and full of love to give every single moment I see her.

I love her too much to see her like this. I can't just- watch her leave and stay here rotting like a piece of fruit that's been sitting in the bowl for too long. I need to find her, no matter how sick I feel right now.

She'd do the same for me, right?

Right.

———————————————-

Leafy's POV:

The forest is dark, even though it's daytime. The trees creak with every wind blow like old, wooden floorboards. Each leaf that was stepped on sounded like a bone snapping.

The smell of decaying flesh was strong and lingered around a familiar area to her.

Her.

"Why does this look so...familiar? Have I been here before?!? What's going-"

Crimson red fog surrounded the area, sending shivers down my spine. I darted my eyes around and didn't move a single muscle in my body.

I wasn't running this time. I let the horror around me sink in...I let it feel real.

Time ticks. Is it time yet? Or am I wasting it?

Fries told me she existed, right? She's here...she has to be.

I want to see her. I want her to take over me. I want her to eat my flesh, tear me into pieces. Drown me like she did in my nightmare. Use me like a puppet, string me up and put me on display, I don't care.

Tear me in half already, and never recover me. Let me rot like every single deer skull to surround this forbidden forest.

Just let me die. Let it happen already.

I hear a noise, and the red figure from my nightmares pops up in my face.

But this time, I don't budge. "I'm impressed."

Her mouth didn't move, but her words were clear to me. Each sentence transmitted to my mind, almost as if we had a connection.

"Impressed by what?"

"Impressed you came here willingly all alone."

"I know."

"Oh, your face looks so fragile...just like your feelings on the inside."

"I know."

"Your heart is...unusual, Leafy. You're so kind and caring, but it does nothing but hurt you."

"I know."

"Both you and your heart are crumbling by the second. Tsk, tsk, tsk- not good."

"Is there anything I can do about it?"

Evil Leafy's blank expression turned into a grin, her eyes wide with adrenaline. "Of course. I'm a part of you, after all. I can fix it, I promise!"

"How?"

"Let me fully control you for a moment...take over your body...make it feel good for once."

I snapped back to reality for a moment. My mind felt weird, as if someone was tampering with it. "No thanks."

"But you said you wanted me to take over you earlier!"

"I...did?" I didn't remember that, not in the slightest.

"You're taking too long." She quickly teleported up to my face and grabbed at my yellow spot, circling her sharp claw around the sore edges.

"Fascinating mark you have there, Leafy!"

I winced at her unexpected action, my heart pounding as I uncomfortably watched her touch each sore spot. "P-Please stop..."

"Does he know what this means yet? Or is that something you're keeping from him?"

"I-" But I couldn't speak. I went from overflowing the bathtub to filling up too little.

"Oh...so he doesn't, great. Good job keeping something this serious from your boyfriend."

"I don't want him to worry about me. He already does it too often..."

I thought about his presence from the other night, making me feel all fuzzy inside. I miss him. I miss him already.

"Miss him, already?! Even after everything he put you through last night? Oh...the humiliation, the distress! The sobbing...you couldn't stop. You couldn't handle the situation, so you ran up into your room and hid away for the night."

"I went into my room for privacy. Is that really a big deal?" I was trying to keep it together, but I felt like I was going to snap at any moment.

"You're so used to running away from your problems, but now you can't. You're stuck, Leafy."

"I'm not stuck-GAH!" I fell to the ground, her claws digging into my yellow side, but this time, it was real. This wasn't a nightmare; this was real.

I felt every pain and claw mark piercing into my skin, my body becoming stiffened by the hits. "P-Please! You're hurting me! I only want to-*crack*"

Silence.

I trembled with horror in my eyes, regretting ever setting foot into this forest.

Crack, crack, crack.

Half of my face was full of new breaks in the skin, each one having its own distinct sharp pain. "No- NO!" The whole forest shook, as if a lightning strike had hit it.

Evil Leafy flexed her first genuine smile, her sharp, yellow teeth on display...just for me. "Your anger only powers the evil in you. You're making it worse for yourself."

"What-? I don't understand, I-"

"See how the forest fears you? That's how everyone around you feels. Full of terror, as if you'll lash at them with a knife for saying one wrong thing."

Shivers are sent up my spine from the mention of knives. "Don't you DARE mention those knives!"

And there it goes. The evil is fueled by her anger once more.

"Great job listening, Leafy." She chuckled out of excitement. "You're one step closer to the final result!"

"Final result? What do you-"

Silence.

—————————————————

Firey's POV:

For the first time, I felt cold. Not just inside, but on the outside, too.

I could barely keep my eyes open, but I continued my search for her.

Her.

Oh, how I miss her.

Will she come back? Will she ever love me again?

Will she ever trust me again?

Nothing is certain, and that scares me.

I had to be immature, I had to be stupid. Why would I ever think it would be okay to drink that much? Especially on her birthday.

I don't know what I said or did, but it still worries me.

My dreams of staying with her forever were slowly being eaten away by the cold, bitterness surrounding me, even though it was summer.

The July sun no longer shone its warm light around me, but directed its light elsewhere.

Somewhere with more purpose. Somewhere more important.

My own flame couldn't even heat me. I was trapped in a metal shell, just for her.

Oh, her. My dear, Leafy. How her bright smile brought me such happiness and light.

She was the sunshine of my day, now she's gone and wandered off far away.

Who knows if it's worth searching? What if she refuses to return? What if she's gone forever?

"Leafy!?!" I called out with worry.

No answer.

All I wanted was a sign, that's it.

I don't care if she doesn't want me back; I just want to see her beautiful face again.

How could a birthday party lead to this?

"Leafy!! Leafy, please-!" I called out again, but this time I was weaker.

My body was fragile, even though I was made of metal. I snuggled the blanket closer to my body, hoping I'd feel more comforted through my pain.

But it wasn't the same as feeling a hug from her.

"Leafy...! Leafy...," I hollered.

F-Fuck, I don't feel well...

Maybe if I sit down- no. No. I must keep going, for her.

I must keep moving, no matter what it takes.

Maybe she's at the park.

I waltzed my way through the park gate, my mind flooding with the moments I had with her here two days ago.

The walk...the caterpillar she loved...the lake...the swans.

"Swans are so pretty...yet, so ugly on the inside."

I remember it all, as if it were long ago.

But it was only two days ago.

Two.

We danced through the park's beautiful trail of flowers, holding hands while skipping froliciously. Our hands are as warm as the sun shining above us, the sky is blue like the lake, and the atmosphere is full of life.

"Leafy...I love you so much."

"I love you, too."

"Firey?!?"

"..."

"FIREY! WAKE UP!"

My eyes slowly open, sudden pain striking in my elbows. "H-Huh?"

"Are you okay?!?"

I could barely make out who it was. My ears were ringing, and my eyes were still half closed, blurring my vision.

"Hello?!" The familiar voice shouted with concern.

My vision finally adjusted, and I found Gelatin standing in front of me as I lay still on the pavement.

"W-What...happened?"

We were in the park together just a moment ago.

"I found you passed out on the sidewalk while I was walking to your house!"

"When did I...?"

Gelatin gently grabbed my arms and pulled me upward. "Your elbows are bleeding, Firey!" He said worryingly

I touched the gashes gently, the blood transferring from my elbow to my finger. "Oh."

Gelatin's face was full of worry. "Firey...you need to get that cleaned up."

"I will," I replied dryly.

"What's wrong with you? You aren't acting like you usually-"

"I'm tired." I started to walk away, the tan blanket still wrapped around me. The blanket was now full of dark red splotches of blood from my gashed elbows.

"Firey, wait! Why were you on the sidewalk in the first place?!? Why are you out here so early? Why-"

"She's gone, Gelatin," I said coldly.

He paused and stared at the rocky sidewalk. "What?"

"S-She ran away. She wants nothing to do with me." I felt myself slip up, tears forming in my eyes.

"Firey...she'll be back! I'm sure of it!"

"What if she isn't?" I interrupted.

Gelatin couldn't respond. He had nothing to say in return, as he was in doubt she'd return after that night.

"I was supposed to be looking for her, but I guess my body had other plans," I paused to control my tears. "I don't even remember passing out!"

"I think you're overtired, Firey. Plus, the alcohol is probably still leaving some side effects on you."

He was right.

"I'll be fine."

I felt more blood trickle down my elbow and onto my blanket, Gelatin growing more concerned by the moment.

"Firey, you really need to get that covered up! Please, let me take you to my house for bandages or something!"

"She's waiting for me, Gelatin. I have to keep looking!"

"As much as I am worried for her, why can't you just- take a break and take care of yourself! Look at you, Firey!"

I took in his words like I took in the weather's hits. I couldn't help but ignore his advice. I needed to find her, or else I don't think I'd be able to live with myself knowing she left forever.

Something clicks, and it tells me to run. Run as fast as I can, even if I'm weak. Sprint, and don't look back.

I wrap the bloody blanket around me tighter and run as fast as I can.

The blanket flows behind me as I run like a hero's cape, except I am no hero.

I was just an idiot looking for a way to fix his mistake.

If it can even be fixed.

"FIREY-!" Gelatin shouted.

I ran. I ran as fast as I could, but he trailed behind, catching up with me faster than I thought he could.

"Firey, please! You're- You're really worrying me!"

I could hear the worry in his voice, but I still sprinted in hopes of being able to outrun him. My elbow gashes stung as the air pressed against them.

"FIREY-!" Gelatin shouted at the top of his lungs. "STOP RUNNING, I'M ONLY TRYING TO HELP!!"

I huffed and I puffed, turning corners the quickest I ever have in my life.

According to Coiny, I'm "bad at running." In my opinion, I don't think I'm too bad, especially since I'm outrunning Gelatin right now.

Wait...why was I running away again?

"The forest, Firey..."

"What?!?" I accidentally said out loud.

I couldn't see Gelatin's face, but I already knew he was confused. "I said...I'm trying to help you! So would you please stop running!"

He unexpectedly tugged my blanket, slowing me down. "Gelatin...let go," I snapped.

"Why should I?"

My breaths were erratic from running, along with my heartbeat. "GELATIN, PLEASE!" I yelled through the heaviness in my chest.

"I need to go to the forest...I know she's there, I-"

"Firey, please just- calm down and tell me what happened. I'm not going to stop you from finding her, but I can't let you run off injured." His words were soft and genuine. I could tell he really cared about me, but my brain refused to process his concern. All I wanted to do was ignore him and find her.

"No...I'm sorry," I whispered. I quickly pulled the blanket away from his grasp and fled as I rubbed my elbows uncomfortably.

But this time, Gelatin stood still. From the glance I took, he looked disappointed.

He didn't call out for me; he didn't act like he cared anymore.

He didn't care to chase me any longer. I left, and he stayed.

Similar to a scene that has happened before, hm?

Leafy leaving, and me staying, all alone.

Full of worry.

Why did I leave him hanging like that?

"The forest, Firey. Remember your mission. Keep running. Run as long as you can, until the tall trees make their way around you."

That voice lurked around each corner of my brain. Why did it keep returning, and most importantly, why was it leading me to the forest?

My legs felt like mush from running for so long. The metal weight on my body didn't help with that, either.

My elbows barely bled anymore, but still pained me.

I don't even remember falling back into the pavement and hitting them; that's the scary part.

"She's close, Firey. The forest is just a turn away. Come on, hurry it up!"

Even though my body was made of metal, I felt a heavy weight pull off my shoulders.

I knew she had to be here, the voice told me.

The...voice told me. It can't be a trick, right?

Right.

I caught my breath and scurried my way towards the forest's biggest opening.

"This is the spot. Right here in this very soil, she lies by a dead tree, waiting for you."

She's waiting for me?

"Thank you, mysterious voice," I said out loud.

"No need to thank me...now, come along, dear. Take a step closer in, the forest won't bite."

My mind was hypnotized by the unknown voice, causing me to walk in without checking my surroundings.

With each step, I felt uncomfortable crunches beneath my feet.

Sharp-ended leaves that were deteriorating lay uselessly on the ground, and with each step, they turned into dust.

The forest smelt of decaying flesh, which made me weary.

I glared to the side to see a cut-off dead head pinned to a dead tree with dry, blackish-red blood stains smeared around it.

It wasn't a plain old smear, though. It was a message.

I gagged with each step I took, from a mix of the leftover alcohol in my stomach and my fear of horrifying, bloody scenes.

"The forest means a lot to me. Please keep it as it is, and don't cut down the trees."

The message seemed like a secret cry for help, which threw me off.

Maybe I should turn back. Why would Leafy spend time in a place like this anyway?

The wind suddenly grew tougher and wrestled the trees with its mighty blows. Each tree around me was dead, with a few leaves on it, hanging on for dear life.

One blow and the leaves have fallen.

My eyes met a dark shadow. Its shape looked familiar, but I still backed away out of instinct.

"It's her, Firey. She's quietly waiting for you by that dead tree, just like I said before!"

No...it can't be.

I repositioned myself closer to her, the ground beneath my feet rustling with noises of helpless leaves letting out their last cries.

"L-Leafy...?" I whispered, unsure if it was actually her or not.

"Firey?"

The response broke the silence between my racing heartbeat and me.

"LEAFY!" I screamed, causing it to echo throughout the vacant forest.

I jumped behind her and squeezed her tightly, but for some reason, the hug didn't feel the same.

The loving warmth of the hug was...gone.

"Oh, a hug...," she replied coldly. "I don't know how to feel about that one."

I instantly let go of her, and my eyes widened in fear. "What do you mean, Leafy?"

"We don't really hug much, ha," she stated with no emotion.

She still didn't turn around. All I saw was her back, which was full of yellow spots.

"Leafy, look at me," I demanded. I was trying to be fierce, but regardless, I was terrified out of my mind.

She ignored my demand. "The forest needs protecting, Firey. Don't you see how much damage people have done to it?"

What does this have to do with me asking her to turn around? Is she stalling or what?

"Answer me. Turn around, my love."

She suddenly teleported in front of my face, making me jump like a scared cat. "WOAH-!"

I examined her face. Her eyes had a yellow tint to them, her face was full of yellow splotches and cracks, her arms were scratched up, her fingers looked pointed than usual, and she had an unusual redness to her.

"Are you...feeling okay?"

"I'm fine, why do you ask?"

"You look a little off," I mumbled.

"Oh. It's noticeable, isn't it?"

I rubbed my elbows as they stung with soreness. "If we are referring to the same thing, yes. Yes, it is noticeable."

"...I don't mean to look yellow," she replied softly. "I wish it would go away."

Is she going to mention the fact that she ran away or...?

"I wish it would go away, too! Y'know, I never asked you why it was there in the first place."

"It's nothing bad, don't worry about it."

I could tell she was lying through her teeth.

"I feel like I should be worrying-"

"NO!" She snapped. The whole forest shook as the crows left their branches out of fear.

"It's fine, really! I'm fine, Firey!! I'm telling you I'm FINE!" Her words were erratic and quick, almost as if she were in a panic.

I grabbed her hand, which was cold as ice. "You can tell me anything, you know," I said softly.

Her eyes darted down to my hand, then back up at my face. "I don't need to tell you anything," she snapped, her eyes more yellow than before.

Her pointed fingers dug deep into my palm. I winced in pain as I tried to let go of her grasp, but I couldn't.

"GAH-! LEAFY, WHAT ARE YOU-"

"Breath, Firey. It'll be okay."

"UH- NO IT WON'T!! YOUR CLAWS ARE STUCK INSIDE MY PALM!"

"Oh~ it's such a shame you have to go through something like this!"

"Leafy, what's happened to you?!? Where- WHERE THE HELL IS MY GIRLFRIEND!"

"Don't worry about her, m'kay?"

My heart dropped as if I were on an amusement park ride. "What did you do to her? Tell me, NOW!" I demanded.

She smirked. "Do you really need to know?"

"Yes, I do." I waited for her to let go of my palm, but she didn't. I could feel each break in my skin ooze out with cherry red blood.

"Stubborn one, aren't ya? Ha, explains why Leafy loved you so much."

Loved?

Was I right...? Did she- did she leave me? "What do you mean by loved?"

"Tsk, Tsk- she might not be back, Firey."

Stop.

"No...No, you're messing with me! You're trying to get something out of this!"

"What the hell would I want from this?!? Please, your soul is not mine to keep, only hers."

"YOU TOOK HER SOUL?!?" I screamed so loudly, it echoed throughout each dark corner. "WHO ARE YOU?!"

She dug her claws deeper into my palm. "Why should I tell you, hmm~?"

The pain was the worst I've ever felt. Each tear in my skin numbed my palm and made me feel off balance from staring at it.

"I don't feel so good...," I mumbled.

Leafy looked like a blurry puddle of mush from my view as I stared into her yellow pupils. "Please...w-where's my girlfriend? I want to apologize to her...before it's too late." My vision blurred more from my tears. I couldn't help but fear what was to come next.

Will she harm me to the point that I die? Will I never see the real Leafy again? Will she live thinking I didn't care about her running off?

Why, oh, why does this have to happen to me?!

"Aww...are you crying?" She mocked in a baby voice. "She doesn't care about you, now stop your whining and man up."

Doesn't care about me?

I felt my body weaken as my blurry vision watched more blood pour out of my palm. "She- She cares about me! I know she does!"

Those were the last words I uttered out of my mouth before I stopped.

All I remember is the pain, the tears, the things the fake Leafy told me.

Even if fire is stronger than the leaf, it has brought me down.

I've realized that I have always been weak.

Pathetic, weak, and frightened. Frightened of anything that could harm me.

Harm surrounds me and her.

And we can't escape it.

——————————————————

Evil Leafy/Leafy's POV:

He lies still on the ground, blood gushing out of his twitching hand, along with wounds on his elbows.

I didn't know where the elbow wounds came from, but it didn't matter to me.

He was passed out, so I was able to do what I needed to do.

"Oh, Leafy~!" I called out playfully.

"WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO-"

I quickly shut her up. "Does it matter what's happened to him? It's only you and me, now that you're at the final stage."

"I feel sick. Please, get out of my body! I don't like the thought of you being a part of me, not at all."

"The forest needs you, Leafy. That's why I want you here. I want you in good hands, not his."

"I was in good hands, until I was FORCED here. Why did you lure us here?!? How...How did you speak to us like that?"

"It's all from the power I hold, and that could be you, too. We all know you can teleport, Leafy..."

"No! S-Shut up!"

"Those nightmares you had meant something all along. I warned you, but you ignored it."

"You know damn well I struggled to ignore them. You think I wanted to suffer knowing that-"

"It's nice being able to interrupt you so easily, you know~"

"Please...you don't understand- I need to speak to him...I need to let him know I love him. I want him to know that-"

"That you're a liar?" I giggled at the thought of her getting all upset over this.

"What?"

"You heard me loud and clear. You're a liar."

"I told you earlier, I did it to protect him. I didn't want him to know that the yellow spots meant something more serious, or else he'd worry."

"You tell him you're fine, but you're not. You know lying is a sin, right? The kindness in your heart is nothing but evil, and you'll realize that more and more as I take over you like a disease."

"Stop...I- I'm blocking you out."

"HA! YOU THINK IT'S THAT SIMPLE TO GET RID OF ME-?! Please, Leafy...it's going to take more strength to get rid of me."

"Get. Out. Of. My. Head. Now."

"Or what~?! Remember who you truly are, Leafy."

"I'm not you. I've told you this a million times...!"

"I'm not in the mood for your attitude. Either agree with me or watch me kill him."

"W-What?!? No...No, stop. No, you wouldn't. Please, anything but that..."

Leafy tried to cry, but she couldn't with Evil Leafy taking over her.

She wanted it all to be over. She wished for anything but this to be happening to her.

"I'll do it while he's unconscious!"

I inched closer to his body and stepped on his arm, which dripped with blood from his palm.

*SNAP!*

His arm looked all bent, like a damaged crowbar. So much blood gushed out, his arm looked like a crimson red blob.

"NO! STOP HURTING HIM, STOP! I CAN'T TAKE IT! I'LL DO ANYTHING, PLEASE! I'M BEGGING-"

"Anything, huh?" I rubbed the blood off my feet in the soil on the ground and stood tall and proud, awaiting Leafy's response.

"Anything."

 

HII GUYS!! Thank you again for reading!! This chapter was definitely a little different than the others, but I quite enjoyed writing it!

Quick reminder that I am no longer on summer break, so uploads may slow down. I'm planning on having about 30 chapters in total for this fic, so stay tuned!

 

If you are sensitive to blood, please know that I will NOT be including it in every chapter! I just chose to do it for this one because it's based around my fan perception of Evil Leafy!!

I will upload a few doodles of my E.L. design if you are curious^^ TYSM FOR READING!!!- Alex <3

Chapter 22: Her.

He lay there, as still as a tree. The blanket that comforted him no longer wrapped gently around his body. He couldn't feel the pain while he was passed out, but when he woke up, it would all hit him like a truck.

"Leafy...? Are you there?"

She stroked her hand across his cheek, comforting him while the atmosphere remained silent. "I'm right here, Firey. I'm here."

His eyes looked full of exhaustion as he tried to focus on her face. "I...I missed you."

"I missed you too. I didn't think I'd ever see you again..."

"I thought you died, Leafy. I thought you left me," he replied quietly. His voice trembled as he held back the waterfall behind his eyes. "Please don't ever disappear again...please."

Her expression softened as she leaned her head against his hard, metal shell shielding him. "Firey, I won't ever die on you, I promise. Don't worry about that, ever," she mumbled through her own cries. "I'm sorry for getting emotional here-"

"Leafy, my love, don't apologize for expressing how you feel. I'm upset too, I'm just too used to holding back my tears."

Her sadness vanished for a moment when she heard his words of reassurance. "Don't hold back your tears for me. Don't even ever have tears. I don't want you to cry, ever. It hurts to see you so sad."

"I cry for the love of you. I love you more than you could ever imagine, Leafy. Please know that," he replied.

"I...I do know that. I have always known that, and you should, too, know that I love you the same."

"Oh, Leafy. How did I end up with such an amazing girlfriend in my life? I'm- I'm such an idiot for ignoring you for so long. I-"

"Firey, please. I've told you as many times as I can that I forgave you. You forgave me, I forgive you."

"We could have had so much more time together, though."

"But we do, my love. We're here, safe and sound. I'm here to wrap my arms around you and tell you it's going to be fine. I'm here."

I'm here. I'm here. I'm-

...

Firey's POV:

I slowly opened my eyes, a new pain striking me as I became more aware of my surroundings.

"LEAFY! YOU'RE OKAY! I-"

"I..."

It was just a dream. It meant nothing. It's useless!

"No...No, please. Please tell me she's okay. I can't lose her," I said to myself worryingly.

I go to lift myself, but soreness hits me like crazy. "What happened to my arm?!?"

Shit...

I glanced at it with horror in my eyes. My head started to ache as I noticed that the pool of blood was from...me.

I couldn't move it. All I felt was a numbness creeping from my palm to my shoulder. "Some-Someone help!" I shouted as loud as I could, but it didn't work.

The forest was as dark as Evil Leafy's heart. If anyone were willing to help, it wouldn't be someone who lurks in this forest.

Leafy would help, she'd love to, but she can't.

Not with Evil Leafy taking over her.

How did that even happen?

"Oh. You're up...," Evil Leafy said with disappointment.

I stayed silent, even though I didn't want to.

"I'm so sorry about your arm, my love," she mocked.

But she sounded like her. She sounded exactly like Leafy.

"L-Leafy?"

Evil Leafy stared for a second, then roared with laughter. "PFFT- YOU'RE FUCKING PATHETIC!"

She's right, I am pathetic.

"I know she's in there, E.L."

"So? She can't speak for herself anyway!"

I was growing furious. "Let. Her. Go."

"What are you going to do about it? You can't even get up!"

The puddle beneath me grossed me out, but I was sucking it up to save her.

Her.

"I can walk off a broken arm," I replied coldly.

"I'd like to see you try-"

I don't know why, but I kicked her. I kicked her in the gut. I kicked her so hard, she fell back like a coward.

She clenched her stomach with her long, black claws. "AH- YOU LITTLE PRICK!"

She stood up again, this time taller and more demanding. "Come closer before I make you." Her legs grew longer, and so did her antlers. "You don't get to control ME. I GET TO CONTROL YOU!"

I couldn't hear Leafy, but I knew she was begging her to stop.

She had to have been, right?

"It was just a little kick...are you really that-"

She clenched her claws around my face, covering my mouth. "YOU BEINGS ARE WEAK! USELESS EXTRA PIECES OF SHIT LAYING AROUND!"

The uncomfortable pains circling my body made me think of how Leafy felt.

Was she this weak the whole time, and never told me?

My arm was numb, but still bloody. The claw marks on my palm and my face felt like a sharp knife carving into me like a pumpkin.

Maybe I'll be a jack-o-lantern, but there won't be any light coming from it.

It would be sitting there with no purpose. The candle wouldn't light, and the insides would be getting eaten away by little bugs. Each day, it would weaken until the fall ended, and its use was even more pointless.

I'd fall over, limp and in pain, rotted away forever.

I tried to mutter out something, a cry for help, maybe a scream.

But my mouth was covered. I could barely breathe, and the scratches on my metal defined me.

"SUCH A SHAME YOU CAN'T DO ANYTHING~! Maybe Leafy will come and save you, HAHA!"

"l-leafy...," I whispered through the only breath I had left in me.

"LEAFY'S GONE, DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND?!?"

I grabbed her hand with my useful arm and clenched it around her pointed claws. "N-No. S-She's here...," I mumbled.

Evil Leafy's face lit up in shock. She dropped me on the ground and turned around.

She didn't say anything, she didn't even move.

I lay there with new stinging wounds all around my body, waiting for a response.

Was she going to push me to the ground? Was she going to claw me to death again? Was I going to die? Probably.

"Why...," she said softly.

Her voice was more calming and loving. She almost sounded like Leafy, but with a grittier tone. "I don't...understand."

Her body suddenly shifted, her green color no longer corrupted red.

Is that...really her? "Leafy?!?"

She didn't respond, but Evil Leafy did with stares.

Since she was no longer in Leafy's body, she wasn't able to speak fully, only sign.

"I did what I needed to do. I promise you, I'll return soon, and it won't be pleasant," she signed quickly.

"No...! You can't return, please leave us alone!"

She grinned and flexed her claws, then teleported away, leaving me with questions.

Why did she just- disappear after I touched her hand? Last time she grew violent, this time she grew loving.

I stared down at my palm stained in dark, dried-up blue blood, then at Leafy.

Leafy was lying on the ground, weakened by Evil Leafy's corruption.

"LEAFY-?!?"

"F-Fi-Firey...I'm so-sorry," she said, trembling.

"Don't even worry about me! Are YOU okay?!?"

She didn't respond. She just stared at the darkened soil in the ground.

"Lift your head," I requested.

But she didn't budge.

"Leafy?"

"...fine," she replied weakly.

She picked herself up slowly, her knees bringing her up into my face.

I gasped, unable to think of what to say.

Her face had been corrupted with yellow marks, almost all over her body now. Her eyes were droopy, as if she had been up all night.

But the most concerning part was the cracks in her skin.

Each corner had a crack, as if you had dropped your phone.

"Leafy...were you hiding this from me?" My voice was gentle, but deep down, I was furious.

"I didn't—want you to...worry."

"Leafy...what are you talking about?"

She adjusted herself and took a deep breath before she spoke. "The yellow means I'm...changing."

"Changing?"

She didn't respond; she just stared into my lifeless eyes, then at my arm.

"Firey...your arm is bleeding."

I knew it was, I felt more lightheaded as the minutes went by, but I cared about her well-being more. "Don't worry about me."

Leafy went to get up, but her legs gave out. She tried again, but this time, she couldn't even lift herself off the ground.

"Firey...," she said with a panicked tone.

"What?" I said as I watched her try to get up.

"I...I CAN'T MOVE THEM!" The river behind her beautiful eyes started to flow.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!?"

"MY LEGS! I- I'M COMPLETELY NUMB!" She started breathing heavily, unable to control her breath.

Panic attack.

"Leafy, relax! Relax!"

She grabbed her chest as tightly as she could, trying not to crack her body even more.

"Breathe, babe. Breathe. I've got you...," I said calmly as I rubbed her back with one hand.

The forest was always dark, but this time, it looked darker.

There was no light to be found, not even a peak of sunlight.

The moment was growing darker, and everything happening didn't have a single drop of hope attached to it.

Why did we come here? Why would we put ourselves through this?

Leafy's panic attack slowed, and I lifted her with my useful arm.

I was lucky she was light as a feather; otherwise, we would have been doomed.

"It's okay, Leafy. I've got you. I'm going to bring you to the hospital again, okay?" I started to walk out of the forest with her secured by me.

She muted herself. She refused to talk; I could tell by the way she tightened her lips together. She only nodded, but I knew there was more behind that nod.

Her eyes said it all.

There was no sparkle, no loving stare, only blank, glossy eyes.

She looked like she was about to cry.

"I'm here, it's okay. It's all going to be okay."

"M-My...," she mumbled hesitantly.

"Say what you need to say, it's okay."

"My legs...why? Why won't they..."

"I'm sure it's only temporary, Leafy." I wasn't sure, but I was trying to make her feel better.

"I feel all weird, Firey. I don't like it, not one bit. She took over me and...she messed with me. She tampered with my thoughts- I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm horrible, aren't I? I'm just-"

"LEAFY!" I didn't mean to raise my voice, but she was being too much.

"Leafy, please, stop. This isn't your fault in the slightest! Like you said, she tampered with your thoughts. You weren't in control, she was."

"I could've stopped her from harming you."

"No, you couldn't have."

"I should have begged longer. I should have put up more of a fight."

"We're both a mess right now. Let's please keep ourselves together and make it to the hospital as soon as possible. I'm starting to feel woozy."

"Take a break," she demanded.

"But I don't have the time to-"

"Take a break. I need to talk to you, anyway."

Talk to me?

My heart dropped when I realized it was about the party.

I had forgotten about what had happened because of all the commotion going on.

We both were severely injured, and we needed to hurry this up.

I placed her body gently down by a dead tree, and I sat next to her while I held onto my broken arm in pain.

My head was pounding, and my body was frail.

"So, I'm an island stealer, huh?"

I felt all the calmness left in me fade out into nothingness. "What?!"

"That's what you called me. In front of Needle, Book, and Ice Cube."

I forgot I let Freesmart in...that was a bad idea.

"I said that?!? Leafy, I-"

"I know you were drunk, but it genuinely ruined my night. I locked myself in my room for half the night, waiting for it to be over."

"I wish I were in the headspace to comfort you. I'm a fool, I know. I shouldn't have drunk so much."

I can't believe I said that to her.

"I embarrassed myself in front of everybody. I tried to lighten up my mood and act all happy for everybody, but it turns out nobody likes that version of me. I tried to be positive, but it didn't work."

I stared at the ground, waiting for her to speak again.

"She definitely hates me now. I knew she did before, but it's bad now."

She?

"Who hates you...?"

"Pin, Firey! Pin! Use your brain!"

I was surprised by her sudden rudeness, but I brushed it off.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I'm supposed to be a kind person, not a cold-hearted one."

"You aren't cold-hearted-"

She cut me off and started talking about Pin again.

"I ruined her night, what's new. I ruined half of her life, too." She ripped the grass out of the ground by the tree and threw it ahead of her. "I don't want her to hate me, or be uncomfortable around me!"

"What exactly happened if you don't mind me asking...? Sorry if it's-"

"I started by hugging her, which made her uncomfortable. Then, she came in to check on me, and I took her advice too literally and screwed it up. We got into an argument. That's when I couldn't take it anymore and ended the party like a fool. Everyone was laughing at me."

This all happened, and I wasn't there to prevent it? What the hell is wrong with me-?!

"I can't even tell you how sorry I am, Leafy. You probably want to break up with me and leave. I understand why you ran out this morning, now. I understand more than ever."

"I wasn't sure how to react, so I ran, but she brought me to the forest. The running away was all on me, though, and I should be apologizing too."

"..."

"Even if the party was...traumatizing. Thank you for putting it together for me. It was very thoughtful of you."

She leaned in and gave me a quick peck on the lips. "Just don't get drunk ever again, okay?"

She forgives me? How?

"You actually aren't going to break up with me?"

Her eyes widened, though she still looked tired. "No. You've done too much for me to leave you over this. Besides, it was partially my fault for acting the way I did towards the end of the party."

I don't deserve her.

"Thank you, Leafy. Now come on, let's go before we both pass out," I said half jokingly, half seriously.

"Alright."

Leafy's POV:

She asked me to do anything for her, and I accepted that.

I said yes to her request...it was foolish, but it was to save him.

I'll probably be dead soon, but he doesn't have to know that.

He needs to focus on himself. I hate to see him injured like this.

I tried to stop her, but I faltered.

I feel like I don't have much time left.

I might know it, too.

I want to apologize to Pin. I want to make things right.

I want to be able to stare at a lemon tree one last time.

God, please let me be okay.

Firey slowly trotted down the sidewalk, carrying me safely to the hospital.

I really didn't want to go back there, but I had no choice.

My legs were useless, and it scared me.

"I'll slowly take over your body until you are no more," she said to me.

"Are you holding in there, hun?"

"Yeah...I'm fine," I replied. I don't know how he can walk with a broken arm...I would be screaming in pain, and I'd expect him to as well.

"Is your arm okay?"

"Oh, no. It hurts like hell, ha!"

"Firey...I feel bad. Maybe we should-"

"NO! No, it's fine! I've got this. Only a couple of minutes away!"

I examined his arm, bruised and stained in blood.

"Hope the wait isn't too long. I really need to lie down," he said.

"So do I."

——————————————

We went into the hospital, hoping we'd be able to get a room as quickly as possible.

I really didn't want to be too far from him, though.

"TB, take Firey into room 140 IMMEDIATELY!" Golfball shouted.

"On it!" Tennis ball replied.

"You're coming with me," she said as she looked me dead in the eye.

Firey placed me gently onto Golfball's head, and she brought me to a room near Firey's.

"I'll see you soon, Firey," I said before we separated.

I was terrified for his well-being, after all, his injuries weren't mild.

"So, Leafy...back to the hospital, eh?" Golfball said.

"I didn't want to be, but yeah, I am."

Golfball flung open the door with her legs and brought me into the bed.

The bed was hard and covered with a thin, blue cloth. It felt like the hard, cold ground that I lay on back in Yoyleland.

"I'll start with...questions first." She cleared her throat and set herself straight in her chair, a clipboard dangling from her foot.

"How were you feeling before your legs gave out?"

"Not like myself at all. I've been sleeping more often, less active, and I haven't been eating."

Golfball adjusted her glasses and nodded as she wrote something not visible to me on the paper in her clipboard. "Mhm, I see. What would you describe the pain as?"

"Sharp and tingly all around my body, but my legs especially."

"When did you start feeling ill?"

"A little bit over a week ago, maybe two. I lost track."

"Mhm...interesting." She placed her clipboard to the side and lifted her chair higher so she could reach me. She pulled out a mouth thermometer and waved it around. "Open up," she said with frustration in her voice.

I opened up my mouth as wide as I could so she could insert the thermometer.

"One hundred and two," she said.

Oh.

"You really let this drag on for that long?!?" She snapped. "That's incredibly dangerous, Leafy."

"I'm sorry...," I replied sorrowfully.

Golfball didn't reply. Instead, she narrowed her eyes at me. I knew she still viewed me as an island-stealing thief; I could see right through her.

"The cracks and spots around your body weren't an indication that you needed medical assistance?!?"

"I was scared! I didn't know what to do about it! I figured it would go away, but...it spread so quickly." My voice was quivering. It was too embarrassing to explain, and horrifying, too. That question still lingered in my mind: Will I die?

"If you had come earlier, your legs wouldn't have numbed. I'm unsure if they'll be able to be healed." She looked down at the ground, then back at me. She cleared her throat and pretended not to care about me, but it seemed like she did.

She examined me closer, her eyes widening with each stare. "I don't remember you being so...yellow."

Do I tell her? "I- uh..."

"It looks like you're changing earlier than expected...strange."

The way she stated that unsettled me. I didn't want to die, I didn't want to be on medication again, and most certainly, I don't want to be here.

"I don't know what to do! I've waited for it to go away, but it refuses! It just keeps spreading, and spreading, and spreading!"

She squinted her eyes even with her glasses on and examined me further. "And you were aware of the trailing cracks all over you?"

I looked down at myself and nodded. "...sadly."

She began to gently squeeze my legs, her focus fixating on my reactions to the squeezing. "Can you feel that?"

"No." I could see them, but it didn't feel like they were there.

I noticed her grip tighten, a redness surfacing around her grasp. "How about now?"

"Not a thing," I replied.

Golfball adjusted her glasses and pushed her clipboard closer to her face. "From what I've gathered, you're most certainly going to need a wheelchair for full mobility."

A wheelchair?! "There has to be a fix to this, right?!"

"There's approximately a 5.99% chance you'll be able to walk again. The other 94.01% chance...says otherwise."

"So you're basically telling me I'll never be able to walk properly again, huh?"

She exhaled slightly, writing something down on the paper placed neatly into the clipboard's clip. "Mhm."

My mind flashes back to the moments I spent frolicking around the beauties of nature.

A simple walk around town, now unachievable. The long grass will no longer kiss the bottom of my feet, the trees will no longer feel my grace on their branches, and the rain puddles won't be accompanied by my joyful jumps. They'll lie alone, waiting for someone to appreciate them.

Just like me.

—————————————————

Firey's POV:

My body stung with excruciating pains, ones I never thought I'd have to deal with.

Tennis Ball's eyes were full of panic, almost as if he didn't know what to do without Golfball around. "Firey, we need to get you stitches, stat!"

"It's not that- OW!" I gritted my teeth at the shocks sent through my limp arm.

"No time for questioning! I'm putting you under anesthesia as quickly as I can!!"

"Whatever you need to do to get me feeling better from whatever this is...," I mumbled back.

—————————————————-

I woke up to the lights blinding my eyes, a huge white wrap around my broken arm, stitches in my palm and the side of my mouth, and bloody patches on both elbows.

"Feeling a little better?" Tennis Ball asked, Golfball behind him, examining whatever was on her clipboard.

"Still uncomfortable, but I'll manage. Thank you."

"You were in terrible condition...how did you even end up with a cut that deep into your palm?!?" Tennis Ball winced at his own question. I knew he was probably imagining how it felt in his head.

"It's...a really long story, one I don't think I can tell." I didn't want to mention Evil Leafy to anybody. She was meant to be kept away and unnoticed by society, so I'll keep it that way.

Golfball raised an eyebrow. "Between you and Leafy, I've seen some unusual conditions. Something must've cracked her skin, and something must've pierced its claws through your palm, no?"

"Nothing attacked us," I lied.

Leafy. I hope she's doing okay.

"How is Leafy doing, by the way?"

"I can't say she's bad, but I can't say she's good either," Golfball replied.

What? "What do you mean?!? Bring me to her, please. Please, I'm begging. Please let me-"

"Firey, calm down!!!" Tennis Ball shouted.

Golfball's eyes narrowed in anger. "You shouldn't be getting up yet, Firey. I'll bring her to you if it really concerns you-"

"YES, PLEASE!! I need to see her. I hope she's okay."

"She's just a little off," Golfball replied. "I'll get her for you. I had to check up on her soon, anyway." She placed down her clipboard on the counter and stomped out of the room, Tennis Ball looking back at her.

His eyes directed back at mine, saddened. "I hope you're doing okay, Firey. I'm worried about you, and so is Golfie, even if she doesn't show it."

"I promise you, TB, I'm fine. I'm more worried about Leafy." Golfball just left, but it felt like an eternity.

Please let her legs be okay.

"We are uncertain of her condition, but I promise you that we'll figure it out. And you know Golfball, she's on top of everything."

"I guess you're right."

The door bursts open, Golfball pushing Leafy in a black wheelchair. Leafy looked frail, like a thin branch during a harsh storm.

"LEAFY!" I shouted. "I- I missed you."

Golfball pulled her wheelchair next to my hospital bed. "*Cough* I missed you, too...," she replied weakly.

"We'll leave you two to chat about- whatever, I guess. Come on, TB. We need to go see how Ruby's broken arm is doing."

"She's always hurting that arm...," he scoffed. "But yeah, we'll leave you be."

"So, Leafy! When do you think your legs will be fully healed?"

She went silent as she rubbed the top of her head.

"What's wrong?"

"They can't be healed. I'm stuck like this for the rest of my life," she replied softly. "I'm...sorry."

No. No, this can't be happening to her! Why would she suddenly lose mobility?!? It...It makes no sense. "Leafy, please tell me you're-"

"I'm not joking, Firey. I literally can't move them in the slightest. It's like they're...gone."

I stared down at my arm, then back at her. Her eyes droopy, yellow patches covering up more than half of her face, a redness to her cheeks, and a pale tint wrapped around her body. She looked nothing like herself, and it concerned me more than anything.

"Leafy, are you feeling okay? You look worse than usual."

"No, yeah, I'm fine!! I'm fine, yeah! I'm just a little tired from today's chaos, aha."

"Tired?! Leafy, it's clear that you aren't feeling well. Please don't lie to me about-"

"I'm NOT a liar, I promise! Kind souls like me don't lie, I would know."

"Whatever you say. I'm only looking out for you."

She adjusted herself in her wheelchair and took a few deep breaths to calm herself down. "How are you feeling?"

Oh, of course, now she changes the focus. "I'm okay, I guess. My arm is pretty sore, but my elbows feel fine, just a little raw underneath the bandages.

"I'm sorry I did this to you, Firey. I really am. Why am I always making your life ten times harder than it should be?!?" Her head was in her arms as droplets of tears dripped slowly down her cheeks. She was full of guilt, but I didn't know why. This wasn't her fault; it was Evil Leafy's.

"Leafy, my love...don't make yourself even more sick over me. I promise you this was not your fault., I told you this already."

"I'm the one who- *sniff* led you there. I'm the one who ran that way, I'm the one who let her take over me. I'm a horrible person, Firey. I don't deserve your sympathy."

She didn't lead me there; it was the voice. That damn voice that mangled with both of us. I wouldn't have ever checked that forest if it weren't for the voice.

"Leafy...you didn't lead me there. She did. It was her."

Leafy hesitated with her words. She didn't know what to say or do; her tracks were halted.

"I'm always screwing my relationships up," she mumbled into her palms.

"Leafy...you didn't screw us up-"

"I screwed her up, though. I fucking made her leave."

Who? "What are you talking about?!? You're talking nonsense right now!"

"I MADE HER LEAVE, FIREY! After all these years, you'd think I would be better at relationships, but no. I'm just as bad, maybe even worse. I make everyone suffer, but I don't want to. That never was my goal...I'm supposed to make everyone happy."

"I didn't know you dated someone before me. I'm sorry you had to go through such a-"

"It was Pin. I dated Pin for...what? Two years? God, it was a mess. I still think it's my fault we broke up, but I'm unsure. I'm glad I have you, though. Even if I've been a bit...off."

THEY DATED?!? That's why Pin got uncomfortable when Leafy hugged her! "Whatever happened couldn't have been your fault, Leafy. Pin's a complicated person to deal with sometimes, and I promise that you're in a better place now. I'll always be here for you, okay? I...I love you."

"Thanks, Firey. I love you, too."

Leafy's journal- Page 9.

Our love is like no other, but sometimes I can't help but wonder: do you love me, or are you just saying that? Am I the suitable woman for you, or is it just the satisfaction of having someone by your side?

I don't know what I am to you, but I know that you mean a lot to me.

With our last few moments together, we shall make it clear that our love is forever, even if I'm not here.

For you, my dear Firey, I love.

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

This chapter took me longer than expected, sorry! I've been kind of iffy about the last two chapters, but I'm definitely going to up my game for the next one!

Hint: It's about a certain Pin and Leaf. (I am super excited to write this one)

Hope you enjoyed it! Thank you for reading :D

Chapter 23: You'll Forget About Me.

Summary:

Leafpin.

The day was warm and full of spring sunshine as they sat outside in the grass at Pin's old house.

Leafy's eyes glistened like the sunshine as she stared at her girlfriend. "It's so nice out today, Pin! We should totally go out shopping today, don't you think?"

"I don't see why we shouldn't, so sure! I'll go grab our bags." Pin lifted herself off the ground, brushing the little strands of grass off her, and marched inside.

Leafy waited patiently, fidgeting with her thumbs.

Pin burst through the door and locked it shut. "Come on, Leafy."

Leafy nodded and skipped her way towards Pin's car. It was red and shiny, just like her.

They both hopped in the car. Pin driving, and Leafy in the passenger side. "Okay, Leafy. Where should we go?!"

"Guh...uh- hmm. Uh- the outlets?"

"That's pretty far from here, but I'm willing to drive. I need some new spring accessories, anyway."

"Do you think it's worth the drive? I wouldn't want you to-"

"Yes, Leafy! You're always too damn concerned about everything. Trust me, I would tell you no if I thought it was too far for me to drive."

Leafy jerked a smile. "Okay, I trust you."

Pin pulled out of the driveway and started driving.

——————————————-

"Here we are!" Pin shouted. "I can't wait to see what they have!"

"Yeah, me too. I haven't shopped for myself in a while, haha," Leafy replied.

"Maybe we could go into separate stores and-"

"I'd...prefer if we stayed together! Just to be safe." Leafy clenched her hand around Pin's, making Pin do it back. "Oh, okay. I guess whatever makes you feel comfortable."

In all honesty, Pin was never fond of Leafy's attachment issues. She was constantly by her side 24/7, which she liked, but sometimes needed space from.

The way Leafy gripped onto her reminded her of a scared, lost child.

And she had those same eyes as the lost child.

"What store would you like to go to first, Pin? You choose, please!" Leafy had an eagerness to her, like she was desperate to make Pin happy.

"Uhm, let's go into Hollister. I know they aren't a cheap store, but they are having a Spring sale!"

Leafy wasn't that fond of Hollister, especially since she grew up less fortunate than Pin.

Her mother never let her go in there. It was either the thrift store or a store nobody shopped at.

Leafy didn't mind that Pin wanted to go in there, though. It was HER money she was spending, anyway.

Leafy still doesn't have enough money to buy any clothes from Hollister, but she likes to look around. Maybe one day she could afford to be able to spend that much on a dress.

"That one is SO pretty!!" Leafy shouted as she pointed at the long, white, ruffled dress.

"Lower your voice, Leafy. But yes, it is quite cute." Pin picked it up and examined it. She picked at a tiny thread that hung from the sleeve and brushed off a fuzzy that rested on the bottom of the dress. "I think I'll get it, it's $60, but on sale for $55."

"Wow, such a deal," Leafy joked. She came off ruder than she meant to, though, and it haunted her for the rest of the time they spent in the store. Pin could tell by the way she sank her shoulders.

"Your joke didn't hurt my feelings, by the way," Pin reassured.

But Leafy felt like she was lying, like she was only saying that to make her feel better about herself. "I'm still sorry for the way I came off, though."

"Stop apologizing," Pin demanded. She loved Leafy, but sometimes she was a pain in her ass. Leafy was the definition of an overthinker, especially when it came to the basics of having a healthy relationship. She'd think she was being rude or too much every second, even when she's just hugging Pin. "Sorry, am I being too much?" She'd say every time she gripped Pin's waist in bed.

Pin wasn't sure why she was like that, and she never will. Leafy was very conservative with her past before BFDI, not even Pin knows what she was like before she got all paranoid about what others think about her.

Even during the ongoing challenges, which have not come to an end yet, she'd help everyone out, then feel like she didn't do enough afterwards.

The truth is, everyone can see through her. It's like there's a public bulletin board with a layout of her feelings pinned and put together with a soft, red string.

Pin scanned the dress one more time. "I'm probably only going to buy this. Do you see anything you like?"

"Uh, not really. It isn't really my style," Leafy lied. The truth was that she loved almost every spring dress she saw, even the ones that she knew wouldn't look good on her.

"Nothing at all? Come on, there has to be something you like!"

Leafy directed her eyes at the floorboards."There isn't, I promise."

"Tsk- okay, then. I'm going to pay, you can keep looking around." Pin folded the dress over her arm and walked toward the line, where she met Pencil and Match, who held god knows how much money worth of clothes in their hands. "This line always takes so long...!" Pencil exclaimed. "It's always one person at the register."

"Yeah, it's like- outrageous," Match replied.

"Oh, great!" Pin thought to herself. "Of course I'm stuck behind these two-"

"Pin?" Pencil said, snapping Pin out of her inner monologue. "Since when did you shop at Hollister?"

"Uhm- since forever, actually." Pin was not fond of these two and didn't really care about anything that came out of their mouths.

Match crossed her arms tightly. "That's like- a lie." She expressed a look of sass on her face, but it was barely noticeable with the distraction of how bright red her lipstick was.

"Yeah, I'm lying about where I shop to impress you guys!! You caught me!" Pin sarcastically replied.

But she was interrupted by a familiar voice. "Hey, Pin!"

"Oh, why now, Leafy?!" Pin thought to herself.

"I got lonely waiting, so I decided to come and wait with you in line!" Leafy quickly hugged Pin just as the clothes hugged each other on the racks, nice and close.

Pin lightly shoved Leafy off, her happy expression fading away in an instant. "Pin, what's-"

"Oh, and you brought the trailer trash with you, too?!" Pencil exclaimed. "Why isn't she getting anything, hm?"

Leafy finally realized why Pin acted the way she did. The two sassiest contestants were here. "Hey! I'm not trailer trash...I'm not, right?"

"Can you guys just wait peacefully like everyone else is?!? Jeez, I never thought I'd be publicly shamed on a Hollister line," Pin scoffed.

Pencil grinned. "I didn't shame you, I'm just stating the truth."

"I'm kindly asking you to leave us both be, Pencil! I don't want to have to yell...," Leafy replied to Pencil's insensitive comment.

Match rolled her eyes. "Leafy, you can't, like- yell in a store."

"I could if I really wanted to...," she whispered to herself.

"Next in line, please...," said a tired cashier.

"Next in line, GIRLS," Pin hollered. "Wouldn't want to keep everyone waiting..."

Pencil and Match grunted and walked up to the register, plopping their pile of stuff on the counter. "Tell me when you've rung it all up." Pencil took out her phone and started texting someone unknown, Match hovering over her shoulder with a grin on her face.

Pin noticed the cashier looked as pissed as she was, and she couldn't blame them.

"They're so rude...," Leafy whispered to Pin.

"Yeah, no shit. They're total assholes! This is why they got eliminated."

Pencil and Match finally paid for their clothes and walked off, side-eyeing Pin as she got called up next. "Oh, by the way, everyone knows you two are dating," Pencil hollered.

"NO WE AREN'T!" Pin grunted and went to stick up the middle finger, but Leafy grabbed her hand in time to stop her. "They make me so angry, Leafy!"

"I know, they aren't the...nicest bunch, but what can we do about it? Some people aren't built for kindness."

"I guess so."

"Well, that was...eventful," Pin stated. "Worst Hollister trip EVER! At least I got a cute dress, though."

"Ha, yeah..." Leafy suddenly sounded drained.

"Uh, hello? What's wrong with you?"

"It's nothing, Pin, really."

She was suddenly that small, lost child again, but this time, she didn't grip Pin's hand. It only dangled near it, but not close enough to grab.

"You don't seem like yourself for some reason."

"Can we just– go home?"

"Go home?! Leafy, I drove all this-"

Pin noticed how sad her girlfriend looked- shaky hands, watery eyes, and poor body language.

She sighed and directed her eyes into Leafy's watery ones. "Fine. Let's go. I'll make you your favorite when we get home."

"Hot cocoa...?"

"Yep!"

——————————

The car ride home was quiet. The only noises heard were the sounds of the car moving on the highway.

"So...what's wrong?"

"..."

"You know I can see right through your lie, right? I clearly did something wrong, so let me fix it."

"Are you ashamed of me...?"

If Pin could hit the brakes, she would. "What?!?"

"When Pencil said that everyone knew we were dating...you told her we weren't."

"Leafy, you're taking this the wrong-"

"Why is it such a big deal to you that people know we are a thing?!? Is it EMBARRASSING for you?!? Am I not allowed to be seen in public with you?!?"

Pin stopped at a red light. "Leafy, calm down!! It's not that you're embarrassing, I promise."

"Then WHAT is it, huh?! This isn't the first time you've done this!"

"I-"

"Come on, I'm waiting, Pin!"

"I don't know what people think of us, okay?!? There, I said it."

"What? Pin, what do you mean?"

She gripped the wheel tighter and slammed her head on it, making the car honk at somebody for no reason. "You don't get it, Leafy. You never will because you focus too much on being by my side 24/7 instead of actually seeing the signs!"

"The signs of what?!? Pin, you're making no sense!" Leafy's heart raced. She wanted to know what she had done wrong before it was too late.

What if Pin broke up with her? No...no, that won't happen.

"The signs are that people are constantly judging...I mean- look at how Pencil and Match talked to us today!"

Leafy went to place her hand on Pin's knee while she drove, but she tapped it off.

That light placement of her soft hand reminded Pin of a question she's been wanting to ask for a while. "Why are you so...clingy, anyways? I know you love me, but sometimes it's a bit..."

"Too much? Ha, yeah. That's what my mom used to say when I tied myself around her arm."

There was another moment of silence between the two, but the car still made noises as the wheels hit the bumpy road.

"I don't know why I'm so clingy. I guess it's my anxiety getting the best of me, ha."

"What? Do you think I'm going to leave you alone or something?!"

Leafy sank into her seat and stared out the window, the cars passing by like time.

Leafy's POV: I couldn't exactly understand what purpose this served. I knew I was clingy, but what did that have to do with her fearing our relationship was being judged?

My clinginess was something I was always insecure about, but could never ungrasp.

When times were simpler, I'd roam free in the garden by that big lemon tree, the one I was born under.

With each passing day, the citrus smell only spread further out. The smell became so strong that you could basically taste a lemon in your mouth just by walking near the tree.

This tree was no ordinary lemon tree. This tree held the memories of my childhood all in one branch.

It was literally a family tree. My parents and I lived in the oversized trunk of the tree.

Flashback:

"Come on, dear, it's dinner time! You wouldn't want to keep Papa waiting when he's hungry!"

"Oh, sorry. I'm coming, mama!" I ran out of the garden with dirt stains all over my overused overalls and bare feet. In my left hand, I held a mini bouquet of pink roses that I wanted to give to my mom before I ate.

"I'm here! What's for dinner, Mama?"

"I made your favorite, carrot and onion soup!"

My face lit up at the mention of my favorite meal, and I scurried my way to the table.

My mother stared at me and pulled the soup bowl away from my face before I could dig in.

"Ahem...cleanse yourself first, dear!" She scolded.

"But-"

"Now."

I gently placed the roses on the table and followed my mother's demand. I darted towards the bathroom and turned on the bathtub water.

It was freezing, as usual. We don't really have hot water in my house.

I shivered with each splash of water that touched me. As I scrubbed myself, the water became dirt brown. "EWWW!!" I shouted.

I scurried out of the tub, dripping with water as I made my way back to the dinner table.

"You're looking a little soaked there, Little Leaf," my dad said.

"I'm dry as a bone!" I argued back. All I wanted was to eat my soup before it was as cold as the water.

"I'll heat that for you, dear," my mom said calmly.

I shivered as I watched the soup bowl spin in circles like a merry-go-round in the microwave.

All I wanted was a hot bowl of soup to warm me up after that uncomfortable bath I took, so my patience was thinning.

"Mama, I'm hungry!!!"

*BEEP!* "The timer just went off, dear. It's ready."

She grabbed the hot bowl with oven mitts on her hands and placed it gently in front of me, my eyes widening at the thought of the taste. "Wait for it to cool off. We aren't animals, nor are you."

My mother was always scolding me for...well, everything. She wanted me to be her perfect little girl. Well, I was perfect.

"So, Little Leaf, how was your day?" My father asked while adjusting his glasses.

"Oh, it was fun! I played in the garden with the caterpillars and butterflies!! I also found a couple of worms and let them squirm around on my finger."

"Well, that explains the amount of dirt you brought in with ya, haha!"

"Leafy, what are these roses doing here?" My mother asked with a strictness to her voice.

"Oh, I picked some from the garden just for you!"

My mother sighed deeply, shaking off whatever anger she had in her, and said, "Thank you, dear..."

I think she was mad that I picked them, but whatever.

"This soup is amazing, Mama!!!" I slurped up every last dribble in the bowl, an orange circle forming around my mouth.

"I'm glad you loved it. Are you done, or do you want more?"

"I think I'm done, thanks." I went upstairs to my room, but my mother grabbed my arm. "What's wrong, Ma?"

"Wipe your mouth before you go up to your room. It's simple etiquette, remember? You don't want to be walking around with food on your face."

"Oh, yeah! Yeah, I remember that! Sorry." I skipped my way to the counter where the napkins slept peacefully in their holder. I grabbed one, awoke it from its slumber, and wiped my mouth roughly.

That should be okay, right?

I ran up to my room, the wooden floorboards creaking with every emphasized step.

My bedroom door was left open from when I ran outside this morning to play in the garden, so I was able to see every spot I left clean, and every spot I left...well, uh, dirty.

The carpet was pink and fuzzy, almost like the texture of a blanket. I lay on it and looked up at the star stickers I put on my ceiling (my mom was mad about this, but I didn't care.) Each corner of my room had a book to go along with it. I loved reading, especially about insect facts, but I was only allowed to pick two from the library every 3 weeks. My mother made this a rule when I accidentally returned a book late, and she had to pay a fee.

Oops.

The books in my room were the free ones my dad picked up from the library. He saw them and figured I'd enjoy them, which I did a ton.

National Geographic: 1,000 Facts About Insects was my favorite of the bunch he got me.

I wish I could go to the library today, but it hasn't been 2 weeks since I last went. I have no books to read, and it was killing me.

I could reread the fact book, but I've done that more times than the number of facts inside it.

The walls of my room were painted white, but the paint was heavily chipped, so there was lots of wood brown, too. I had a small closet with a few outfits that I was able to find at the thrift store inside. I usually wore mini skirts, overalls, or striped t-shirts.

The only issue with my overalls is that they're all stained with dirt from the times I've played outside.

In the left corner of my room, my mattress lay stiffly on the floor. I didn't have a bed frame, since my parents said it was "too much money to get one."

On the right side of my room, I had a mini dresser with an ant farm on it. My father had made one for me as a late birthday present, and it was the best thing he could have ever gotten me.

I love ants. They reminded me of how small I am in this world, so I relate to them. It's crazy how there are over 10,000 ant species around the world!

My room suddenly dimmed, letting me know that it was nighttime.

I had a scheduled bedtime routine, so I'd better get to bed before my mom gets upset.

I was never allowed to stay up past 9:00 PM, maybe 9:30 PM if my mother was in a good mood.

As the mini clock in my room struck 8:55 PM, I put on a loose, old t-shirt for bed. My house was always warmer than usual because we didn't have AC.

I quickly ran to the bathroom to brush my teeth before 9:00 PM, and darted my way back to my room.

I hopped into bed, waiting for my mom or dad to come upstairs.

I lay curled up like a baby, resting my head on the soft pillow with a thin blanket over me.

*Knock knock* "Little Leaf...are you asleep?"

"No, Papa. I just got into bed, sorry."

"Oh, don't apologize, little one. I was making sure you were in bed on time."

He plodded his way toward my mattress and gave me a kiss on the cheek, his citrus aroma filling up the room. "I hope you sleep peacefully tonight with the storm coming in."

Storm?!? "What storm, Papa? I usually know about those before you do- what false information did you read this time?"

"No, little one, there actually is going to be a storm tonight. I don't want you to panic when you hear banging from the wind, so I'm telling you beforehand."

"Oh, okay. I hope it isn't too bad...," I said, my voice shaky.

"No, it'll only be a little thunder and rain."

"Rain!!!" I shouted.

My father covered my mouth after I shouted. "Shh! Your mother is trying to sleep."

"Sorry, Papa..."

"It's okay. Goodnight, Leafy."

"Goodnight, Papa. I love you sooooo much!"

"I love you, too." His lemon scent became fainter as he left the room.

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

"LEAFY, LITTLE LEAF!! WAKE UP!"

"Buh-wah?" *BANG* "What was that?!?"

My father looked full of panic, like the storm was hitting him in the face. "WE NEED TO LEAVE, NOW!"

"But-"

He picked me up and threw me over his shoulders, rubbing my back as he ran. "I've got you, it's okay. I've got you."

"WHERE'S MAMA?!?"

"SHE'S SAFE, DON'T WORRY!"

We exited our house, the storm building up and smacking us all in the face. The lemon tree creaked, and I saw its roots coming up with each wind gust.

"NO, DON'T FALL ON ME, TREE!" I shouted, my father holding me as tight as he could.

"Where the hell is your mother?!? She was ahead of us, I swear!"

"MAMA!?!" I shouted as loudly as I could.

My father ran towards the door and shouted, "COME ON, LUCY!! COME ON!! YOU'RE GOING TO-"

*Creak...*

"SHIT!" My father yelled. That was one of the first times I've heard him curse. He ran sideways from the tree as it collapsed forward, the storm winning its battle against the tree.

The beautiful lemons that grew on it rolled off or got smushed into a puddle of mush. The leaves that remained either flew off or were begging for help under the heavy branches.

"MAMA!!!" I screamed at the top of my lungs. "WHERE IS SHE, PAPA?!? WHERE IS SHE?!?"

My father hesitated, a sudden tear dripping from his eye. "I-"

"Papa...?"

The storm suddenly calmed down, its aggressive wind blowing coming to an end. The world felt quiet for a moment, almost as if it knew we must take a moment of silence for those who have passed.

And who was the one who had passed?

My mother.

Our home was destroyed, and my childhood was destroyed. The family tree no longer overshadowed all the other trees, but instead, it lay there weakly.

"I'm so sorry, little one. I'm so sorry." My father rubbed my back and cried rivers of pain into my shoulder. "I couldn't save her...I was too late. I thought she-"

"Papa, this isn't your fault." I tried to remain strong, but I couldn't. I matched his tears almost instantly, and he knew how much pain I was in because he felt it, too.

From that day on, my father and I lived alone, missing her. I suddenly missed her scolding, I suddenly missed her list of rules, and most of all, I missed her hugs.

I miss how she wrapped her arms around me...she gave me nature's warmest hug.

My father's hugs reminded me of hers, but at the same time, they didn't.

Our new home was very small; it could barely fit the two of us. I knew my Papa tried, though. And that's all that mattered to me.

He was going through a rough time, as was I. "I'm sorry, little one...I couldn't get you another ant farm. I tried, but-"

"Papa, it's fine. That shouldn't be your focus right now, anyway."

"I know, I know. I feel bad that you've lost everything, though. We weren't that fortunate to begin with, but now...? We can barely afford a meal."

"It's okay, I still have you. That's all that matters."

"Oh, leafy!" He sobbed as he wrapped himself around me. "How did I get so lucky?"

"You raised me, so you brought luck to yourself."

He smiled slightly for the first time in days, and so did I.

Ever since then, I've been with him side by side.

But then I grew up and had to decide things for myself.

That's when I discovered BFDI on a flyer. "Win an island at the cost of your time and relationships!!"

I'll try to win.

—————————————————

I chose to forget that storm.

"I do think you are going to leave me, Pin. I don't want anything happening to you, or us!"

"Why would I ever leave you, Leafy?!?"

"I'm too much, that's why. I'm too much to handle, too much to take in..."

"I didn't mean it like-"

"You don't love me because of how clingy I am, I get it. I can't let go of you."

"Okay, now you're putting words in my mouth!" Pin gripped the wheel even tighter, her hands turning red for a second. "When the HELL did I say any of that?!? Just because I said you're clingy, doesn't mean that I don't love you! I- I love you so much, okay?!?"

She pulled into the driveway and parked the car. Now, she stared into my eyes.

The stare was deep. I knew she meant that she loved me, but I didn't believe it at the same time.

"I screwed up...I really did screw it all up," I whispered to myself. I opened the car door and exited, making my way to the front door. I felt sick to my stomach. I wanted to leave, run away. Never come back. Why was I like this?!?

"Leafy, the door isn't unlocked...," Pin stated.

"Uh..I knew that! Yeah, I knew that." I waited awkwardly for her to unlock it, but she stood there with her arms crossed, tapping her foot. "Don't be stubborn, Leafy! Tell me you love me back."

I turned my head away from her, pondering.

I did love her, but I don't know if I felt like saying it.

"So you don't love me?!?" Pin shouted.

"I do..."

"I'm finding that hard to believe right now," she said as she took out her front door keys.

"Do you truly believe that I don't love you for such a silly reason? Are you for real?!"

I realized now that what I said was foolish, uncalled for. I questioned her love for me over my clinginess, lacking the common sense to see that she truly does care about me.

She lets me stay at her house, she cooks for me, she hugs me, and she makes me feel welcome.

But I can't fathom why she pretends we aren't together.

First in front of Coiny, now in front of Pencil and Match.

Maybe I'm overreacting, maybe I'm not cut out for a relationship.

I don't know.

"I didn't mean what I said, Pin, I-"

"Just go sit down at the dining room table. I'll make you your hot chocolate."

She still wanted to make it for me?! Even after I was harsh?

"A-Are you-"

Pin slammed the front door and threw her keys onto a mini table by her, frustration showing on her face, but not in her voice. "What flavor do you want? Salted caramel chocolate or peppermint?"

"Uh...caramel, please." I was worried she'd snap at me any second, as if I were a mouse waiting for a snake to strike.

I made my way to the dining room, where she told me to go, and waited patiently for my hot cocoa.

It was my favorite drink because my father used to get it for me as a treat if he made enough money at work that night.

The comforting sips reminded me of those long winters when my mother and I would sit inside and write poems together to shield ourselves from the bitter cold snow.

Each passing snowflake created a memory, a memory to be kept.

It's a shame that snowflakes eventually melt away forever, though.

Because I wish I could keep each one present.

"Watch out, it's scorching hot," Pin said as she placed the cup of hot cocoa gently in front of my face.

She brought me a spoon and a mini cup of marshmallows, too, which put a smile on my face.

"Thank you, Pin." I went to grab her hand, but she pulled away. "Yep, no problem."

"Oh...," I thought to myself.

She walked away, leaving me alone to deal with what was racing in my mind.

The steam from the hot cocoa brushed against my face as I mixed it with a spoon, comforting me in a way.

The hot cocoa finally cooled down, and I took my first comforting sip.

The smooth, caramel chocolate taste lingered in my mouth after each sip, my body soothed by a sudden wave of warmth in my stomach.

I poured the cup full of mini marshmallows into my hot chocolate and took another sip.

This one was fluffier and had more of a heaviness, which I preferred.

Before I knew it, the marshmallows became nothing but a disintegrated pile of mush.

Melted away just like Pin's love for me.

God damn it, Leafy! Stop making yourself think that.

I hate how my brain works. One second, I'm all joyful, the next I'm that pile of mushy marshmallows in my hot cocoa.

The room was so silent...it felt off. Something was missing.

It was definitely the sound of her voice, the sound of her comforting words...the sound of love.

Once I finished my hot chocolate, I wiped my mouth and carried it to the kitchen sink, where two days' worth of dishes begged to be cleaned.

Was she overwhelmed by me? Is that why she forgot to clean the dishes?!

I'll just do it for her; maybe she'll forgive me then.

I washed each dish, my hands roughening with each harsh scrub. The hot water dripped around my fingers, making them as red as a tomato.

The soaps piled on top of each other, bubbles blocking my view of the dishes. I sighed with each struggling scrub. Why won't these damn plates just be clean already?!?

"Leafy...?"

The familiar voice between the sound of the water running startled me. Oh, now she's checking up on me.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"I'm washing the dishes!! Look at me, look! Aren't I such an amazing girlfriend? Doing all of this for you!?" I looked around to see that my aggressive scrubbing had led to a puddle of water surrounding the countertop. I caused even more of a mess.

"It would be more helpful if you didn't make a pond in my kitchen, but thanks."

"I'm so sorry, Pin! I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry...!" I started hitting myself in the head, water splashing all over me.

"Leafy, the water!" Pin ran and turned off the water, a huge mess surrounding both of us.

I could tell she was fighting the urge to snap at me. The way her eyes narrowed told me.

"Leafy..."

I stood there, staring at her face-to-face. The water dripping down my face felt like tears, but they weren't. They were just the remnants of my mistake.

"I'll clean it up, Leafy...it's-"

"NO! No...I-I can't have you do something else for me, I can't. I wanted to help, I wanted to make you happy! I didn't mean to screw it all up! Please, Pin- I'm...I'm sorry." I grabbed her hand shakily, and she stared down at it.

There was no connection in that gentle, comforting grasp anymore. It just felt like it happened, and that's it.

"It's best if I handle it, okay? Please, just listen for once!" She ripped our hands apart, like two magnets being detached, and turned the water back on. She scrubbed each remaining dish lightly, barely any water spilling over, and placed it in the drying rack. "Go on, shoo," she said sternly.

I plotted towards the bedroom we shared and fell into a bean-bag chair Pin had. It smelt like her cherry-blossom perfume, making me smile for a moment. How did I screw up that badly?!

I was still a little wet. My hands were dry and soapy, and the top of my head hurt from hitting it.

What have I done?

3 hours pass and my stomach is growling. It's dinner time, and I haven't heard from Pin ever since the dishwashing incident from earlier. I was getting worried about her.

Maybe I should go and check on her.

No, wait for her to check on you. You can't always be the one comforting her.

But I want to be. I want to comfort her, I want to be seen as that kind, perfect girlfriend.

Okay, fine. I'll get up and check on her.

The door creaks open, a bright light from the lamp hitting me in the face. "Pin...?" I whispered.

No answer.

I tiptoed my way out of the room to see her sitting on the couch, alone.

She held a bowl of chicken salad in front of her and chowed down while she stared at the TV screen, watching her favorite mystery show.

"Babe...?" I whispered, trying not to startle her.

She noticed me, placed down her salad, and paused her show. "What do you want, Leafy?"

"I just wanted to check on you. It's been three hours and...I was getting worried."

"Mhm, I see." She unpaused her show and continued, the noise from the TV blocking me out.

"Pin!! I'm trying to speak to you! Why do you have to be so stubborn?!"

Pin paused the TV once more and stared me down. Her face looked meaner than usual, and she no longer stared at me like I was the love of her life, but as if I were a monster.

"Leafy- I don't think I can do this anymore."

"What?!? What do you mean?!? Please, let me-"

"I mean- really, Leafy. You sit here and make me feel like you don't appreciate me! You say you love me, then you show otherwise! Why can't you focus on us instead of yourself?! Everything is about how kind you are, how perfect you are, how thoughtful you are! When in reality, you're nothing but selfish!"

I clenched my fists and gasped. "You think I don't love you?!? I tried to help fix things by talking to you, washing the dishes for you, apologizing to you, but I'm not appreciative?!? I do what I can to love you, Pin. I want to be with you, I want to make you feel better! I don't want to come off as selfish! I am nice, I am NICE!"

"Sure. You're the sweetest soul to grace the earth! There, happy now?!?"

"..."

"Don't try to gain my love, just fucking show it by being- normal! Why are you so damn paranoid about everything?!"

"I DON'T KNOW, ALRIGHT?!? I DON'T-" I began to cry, my body growing weak. My stomach felt like Pin punched it as hard as she could. Maybe I did deserve a punch, or a whack on the head, or something even more painful, like a broken bone.

"Leafy...I-"

I didn't want to hear it anymore. I was done with this relationship, with myself.

"I'll pack my things and leave tomorrow morning. I hope you're happy...," I snapped.

"No, Leafy, please-"

"Since I'm so kind, I should forgive you now, right? Forgive you for making me feel like absolute shit today."

Pin threw a pillow off the couch, hitting me in the chest. "You made me feel shitty, too!"

I stared down at the pillow that now lay still on the ground. "Maybe we're both shitty people."

 

Morning strikes, and Pin is wide awake, pacing back and forth, waiting for me to leave.

I have everything packed in my bag: clothing, essentials, and a photograph of us from years back.

I know I probably shouldn't keep a picture of an ex, but I wanted to. I was sentimental about things like that.

"So...this is it," I mumbled to her.

Pin's eyes became watery, but she wiped them away immediately. "I...I guess so," she said, her voice shaky.

"Maybe we'll see each other again one day," I replied.

"Maybe, or I'll choose to forget about you," she said coldly.

"I won't forget...you mean a lot to me, Pin."

"I hope I did."

"You did." I hugged her tightly, her eyes widening at my sudden action.

She didn't say a word, nor did I.

I flung the front door open and began to walk towards my father's house, but she didn't know that.

She had no clue where I was going. She will probably never see me again.

Until she did all those years later.

 

And now, I'm here, lying in a hospital bed on the brink of death, waiting for somebody's presence to make me feel better.

But it seems that hope is lost. The kind leaf is wearing down, and there's nothing I can do about it.

Nothing but sit here and wait for it all to end.

Every time I see him, I think about if it's our last moment together.

I know he'll probably move on from me, but I won't.

I won't ignore his presence like I did with Pin's. I chose to completely block it out of my memory, especially after BFDIA. That's why I never thought about it...until now.

After the party, after my experience with my evil counterpart.

When I was finally about to say my final words, I decided to think about her.

Maybe she'll visit one day, maybe Firey will let her know I'm here in the hospital.

But who knows. I could be alone when I die, if I die.

I know I'll die.

The leaf will fall from its tree and never be able to return.

The season has changed, and there's nothing that can be undone.

 

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

WOOHOO! Another chapter in the books! I'm not really fond of this one, but whatever. I will COOK the next chapter, trust. I have a lot of angst planned, so be prepared!!

Reminder that I am a high school student, so work can pile up on me at times. I'll try to get chapter 24 out as fast as possible!

Thanks for reading! ^^

Chapter 24: The Garden That Stopped Growing.

*Beep...Beep...Beep*

"Leafy...LEAFY!!! LEAFY, WAKE UP!!!"

"H-Huh...?" I check my surroundings, and I see that I'm hooked up to a heart monitor.

"Oh, thank goodness you're alive! You weren't waking up...," Tennis Ball said, his voice full of worry. "Firey's going to bring in a visitor for you soon."

"F-Firey...*cough* a visitor? Who is he bringing in?"

"Coiny and Pin wanted to see you..."

Fuck.

"Oh."

"Are you...feeling alright?" Tennis ball inched closer to me, examining my face. "I'm getting a bit worried about you lately."

"I'm fine...I'm fine."

"You look anything but fine. Do you want me to cancel the visit? I can-"

"No, it's fine. Let them come in." It may be the last time I see them.

"Okay, I guess..."

An hour passes, and I hear a knock on the door. "Is she awake...?" I hear Coiny whisper to Firey. "She should be!"

"H-*cough* Hey, guys...," I said weakly.

"Leafy! Are you doing okay?!?" Coiny's voice was full of panic.

"I'm fine, Coiny! Don't worry."

Coiny stood by my hospital bed and noticed that I was hooked up to a heart monitor. "I don't like this...," he mumbled.

Pin was the only one not to say anything. She stood there with her arms crossed, almost like she was pissed at me for being sick.

Coiny nudged Pin, striding her to say something, but she didn't.

Firey, whose arm was in a sling, came close and kissed my cheek. "Are you healing alright, my love? I've been worried about you."

"I'm doing just fine, okay? I'll be okay, I know it. I'll heal... for you."

His expressions softened, his eyes meeting mine. "I know you'll get through this."

"This isn't all about me, though. You're injured as well."

"Eh, don't worry about me. I can deal with a couple of scars!" He stood tall and proud, light reflecting off his metal. "I've got this!"

I know he's scared right now, but he's hiding it because Coiny is here.

"So...Leafy," Coiny said.

"Yeah, I know, the party."

"What?!? What party?! I wasn't going to mention a party!" Coiny lied, trying to cover up the incident.

"I'm sorry for acting...that way. I didn't know what to do! I was foolish, unkind, somebody I'm not." I stared directly at Pin, her eyes meeting my droopy ones for a second, then wandering back off.

"I forgive you, Leafy. It was a rough night for all of us! I mean- Eraser was sick out of his mind! I've never seen him get that drunk. Firey, too," Coiny ranted, forgetting Firey was still in the room. "Firey was the drunkest!"

Coiny stopped, realizing he had mentioned Firey's biggest regret in front of him. "Wait, Firey...I-"

"You're right, Coiny. I was drunk, I was the one who ruined everything," he said softly.

If I could get up and hold him tight, I would. I wanted to comfort him, tell him it was okay.

I don't want his sadness to be the last thing I see. "Firey...," I said weakly.

His gaze met mine, soft and fragile. He waited for me to say more.

"You didn't ruin everything."

"But I-"

"You're fine. We're here, together."

I noticed Pin's expression became softer, like all the anger had drained out of her at once.

"And...Pin?"

She remained silent, but listened.

"I shouldn't have acted like that, I'm sorry."

She seemed speechless. I wasn't sure if it was because of what I said or the fact that her ex was lying in a hospital bed.

I don't understand her, I really don't. We were talking just fine a few weeks ago, then the hug made everything come back to her.

"Pin...?" Coiny said, breaking the silence.

He held her hand tight, comforting her with his gentle squeezes. "Hey, it's okay...you're okay. She's apologizing to you, Pin. Isn't that what you wanted?"

The room fell into an awkward silence, arguing happening from each end.

Visit time's up, and it all went to waste.

Is this how we're going to go out...? Just like that?

Pin won't care if I die, anyway. She never will, right?

What if she does care...?

—————————————-

Firey's POV:

I'm back in my hospital room, so far from her gaze.

I wish I could stay next to her to see how she was doing. I know I just saw her, but her look concerned me.

Her cracks were growing bigger. One wrong move and she could start to crumble.

"Ahem, Firey?" I heard Golfball say.

"Huh...? Golfball? When did you-"

"I came in here to give you your pain meds...oh, and Gelatin's here."

She placed down a bottle of pain meds next to me and left, Gelatin appearing after.

Shoot! I completely forgot to let him know I was in the hospital!

"FIREBOY?!?" He ran in and gave me a tight hug, hurting me.

"OW-!"

"Shoot, sorry!!" He backed up, and I noticed tears in his eyes, something I thought I would never see.

"Gelatin-?!? Are you crying?"

"N-No! No, I'm not crying! You're crying!" He wiped his tears, covering up his sorrow. He gently placed his hand on my knee and examined all my injuries.

"Firey...what happened to you?!? I...I was worried sick! I thought you died!"

"I-I thought you died...," he whispered, his voice shaky.

I grabbed his cheek, his gelatinous skin soggy from crying. "Gelatin...I'm okay. Everything is going to be fine. Leafy's fine, I'm fine, okay?"

"O-*sniffle* Okay..."

"I was in a bad accident, one I thought couldn't be real." I'm suddenly thinking about her presence.

That sharp red...those black eyebrows...those deep, staring eyes...her enticing antlers...her yellow teeth...her claws. Oh, those claws...piercing through my flesh...blood everywhere.

I stared down at my stitched-up palm, growing nauseous at the sight.

I...I think I'm going to throw up.

"Firey?!? FIREY?!? FIREY, ANSWER!"

I'm broken out of my trauma spell, scanning the hospital room around me. "What the hell happened?"

"How should I know, Fireboy?! You zoned out completely...like something was taking over your thoughts!"

I glanced down at my palm, the sudden pain of the claw digging deep appearing again. Even though it wasn't actually there. "AGH-!"

"Firey! What's wrong?!? Tell me, so I can get GB and TB to help!" Gelatin was frantic, not knowing what to do about my painful episode.

I started to gag.

"Oh, crap!" Gelatin rubbed my metal back. "It's okay, Fireboy."

I hurled a chunky, green puddle, splattering down onto the cold floor. "S-Shit...," I mumbled.

Gelatin ran out of the room to alert TB, while I sat there, still throwing up.

I had myself hanging over my bed, spitting up whatever hospital food I'd eaten beforehand.

That...memory. It won't leave my mind...I keep thinking of her claws!

Just let it go, Firey.

TB charges in, ready to assist me. "Alright, Firey, alright."

I'm still hunched over, but nothing more is coming out.

"What happened, TB? Why is he like this?" Gelatin asked, uneasy.

"He must've thought about something painful that he's been through. We still don't know how he managed to get all of these injuries, and they don't look like they've been done by any animal I know."

"The last time I saw him, he was searching for Leafy. Then, he comes back like this?!?"

"It's a long story, Gelatin," I replied weakly.

One I won't be telling.

"Let's...get this mess cleaned up, before I end up throwing up, too," Tennis Ball said, disgust displaying on his face.

—————————————————

Time passes, and Gelatin has left.

It is now dinner time, and no visits are allowed. Ugh.

I wanted to see Leafy. I wanted to check up on her to see how she was doing.

Hopefully well, but she didn't look too good the last time I saw her.

I miss the feeling of her being near me all the time.

I miss when I was her guidance of light, her source of comfort.

Now, I'm just some injured, useless metal piece of junk.

Truth be told, I was offered a yellow tomato here, but I passed.

I wanted to be metal to hug her if she needed it.

I know I'd need it.

———————————————

The morning comes, and I hear a loud knock on my door. "Come in...," I said weakly.

"Good morning, Firey. How are you feeling?" Tennis Ball asked.

"I'm fine, I guess."

Tennis Ball nodded and placed a tray of breakfast in front of me.

Powdered eggs and oatmeal. Yuck.

"I know it isn't much, but at least try to eat something!"

"I know, TB, I'm sorry. I haven't been that hungry because I've been worrying a lot."

"Firey...," Tennis Ball whispered. "It's going to be okay. She's doing just fine. As long as she stays here, we'll make sure she heals."

"Thank you, TB, really." I gave him a warm smile, then he exited the room.

I poked at my powdered "eggs" with disgust displayed on my face. I couldn't stand the texture or the taste. It just felt so- fake.

The oatmeal wasn't as bad, but it was a bit too watery for my liking. I was able to digest some of it before my stomach said no.

The hospital room looked dimmer today. The light blue surrounding me felt like it was covered in a dark curtain, and the air felt...strange.

I had a strange feeling in my gut. I wasn't sure if it was from breakfast or not.

Then, I'm suddenly thinking about Apollo.

I hope he's okay...he hasn't had anyone to look after him much, only Gelatin once in a while because I told him to.

I wonder if Apollo worries as much as I do. Heck, does he even worry at all?

He's just a wolf.

And I'm just a useless flame.

I miss Leafy terribly. All I want is to have her near and hold me close.

I want that first kiss from the restaurant back, the one that felt like heaven was between our lips.

That gentle, long kiss...the moment lasted only a minute, but it felt like eternity.

One more kiss...that's all I want.

Another kiss.

I need to visit her...I can't stand waiting in this hospital room anymore.

I don't care what Golfball or Tennis Ball says, I'm visiting her.

I slowly get myself up, pain striking my useless arm. "Ugh...really?"

I've learned to deal with it, even if it isn't ideal. I can only imagine how Leafy is feeling, anyway.

A few more steps to her room. Come on, Firey-!

I gently knock on the door.

No answer.

She must still be asleep...she has been sleeping in late.

I creaked open the door and noticed her lying down, eyes half open, half closed.

"Oh, Leafy!" I ran to her bed, where a full bottle of pills rested next to her. "Leafy?"

"H-Hey, Firey...," she replied quietly.

"How are you feeling?"

"I...I'm f-fine."

But she didn't look like it at all. She looked paler than usual, and her eyes were barely staying open.

"Look at me, Leafy."

She tried to stare into my eyes, but she kept dozing off.

That long, loving stare was impossible for her.

"Did you sleep at all last night?"

"I...I d-did."

I stared at her heart monitor, my heart beating faster than hers.

Hers were slow...slower than usual. "Are you sure you're feeling alright, Leafy?!?"

*Crack*

I gasp and notice a large crack filling half her body, my eyes wide and fearful. "LEAFY, YOU'RE CRACKING—!"

"I...I'm so-sorry...," she whispered, her eyes closing more.

"STAY WITH ME, PLEASE! STAY...PLEASE, STAY! I CAN'T LOSE YOU! I CAN'T-! I can't...I-" Tears filled my dry eyes, each drop dripping onto her brittle body.

*Beep...beep...beep...*

"Please don't slow down...Please," I begged between my shaky cries.

Her body barely moved anymore.

"Leafy...talk to me, please...," I cried, grabbing onto her cold hand.

"I...I love you, Firey."

"Leafy, stop. This isn't funny."

"I..wish I-"

"Wish what?!? WISH WHAT?!?"

"..."

"TALK TO ME! TALK TO ME, PLEASE! PLEASE...PLEASEEEE!"

The door slams open.

"What the hell is going on in- oh SHIT! GOLFIE!! GOLFIE, CODE BLUE!!"

Golfball runs in, her glasses falling off her face," WHAT?!?" Golfball instantly goes near Leafy and starts examining her heart monitor. "HER HEART RATE IS DROPPING RAPIDLY!"

"SHIT!" Tennis Ball yelled out, panicked.

"SHE'S NOT BREATHING, GOLFIE!"

"CPR, CPR!" She shouted.

Tennis Ball performed CPR on Leafy, going gently so she didn't crack more.

But nothing.

I stood outside the door, my heart racing. Please let her be alive, please let her be alive.

*Beep...Beep...*

Silence.

"HER HEART STOPPED BEATING-!" Tennis Ball yelled.

"We...we were too late," Golfball whispered, holding back tears.

Golfball never cries, but Tennis Ball? He's emotional.

"I failed to save her. She could've been...," Tennis Ball started to cry, turning his body away from Leafy's. "Golfie...I failed."

"TB, no, you didn't. You couldn't have prevented such a sudden death..." Golfball replied, emotionless, but truthful.

Tennis Ball knew Golfball wasn't great with emotional situations, so he appreciated her trying to make him feel better.

He wiped his tears. "I can't believe she's- gone."

"I know. I can't process it, either..."

"What do we tell Firey, Golfie?!? He's going to be- *sniffle* devastated!"

Golfball sighed. "We tell him the truth."

"There really is no other option...huh?"

"There isn't, TB. I apologize."

He stared her in the eyes, and she looked back. "Let's get this over with."

I wait outside, pacing back and forth between my worried tears.

The door flings open, and I see TB and GB. Tennis Ball looked like he had been crying, while GB looked serious and unfazed by what had happened in that room.

"Firey...we-," Tennis Ball paused, then looked at the ground, unable to say more.

"We're sorry to inform you about this, Firey, but she...sadly passed away." For the first time, Golfball's emotionless stare faded for a moment. She looked upset, almost as if she was about to cry, too.

"No...No, you're lying-! YOU'RE LYING!" I screamed in their faces, full of disbelief and excruciating sadness.

I dropped to the floor on both of my knees, sobbing my eyes out. "WHY, WHY, WHY! WHY ME?!? WHY HER!!?" I breathed heavily, unable to control my breath. It felt like someone was pouring a bunch of air into my lungs at once, like a balloon being filled.

I banged the floor with my bare, usable fist, pleading for her to be alive.

But we all knew...she wasn't.

"SHE'S FUCKING GONE...she's gone...she-"

Tennis Ball kneeled next to me. "I'm so sorry for your loss, Firey. I wish I could've saved her. I- I tried." He tried to hold back his tears for me, but he couldn't.

I noticed his silent cries drip from his watery eyes as he watched me suffer from the loss with him.

Golfball stared at the two of us, then walked away towards another hallway.

But I heard a sniffle come out of her. Maybe she was crying, silently and unknown to us.

"I...I need to see her, Tennis Ball. I need-"

"No! No, you shouldn't. She doesn't look-"

I don't care. I got up quickly and ran into her hospital room, Tennis Ball not even trying to stop me.

He waited outside, still in the same kneeling position.

The room was silent. No beeping, no movement, nothing. Just her limp, brittle body, resting in silence.

Her entire body was a pale yellow.

Her eyelashes were gentle and delicate as they shielded her eyes, and her arms lay lifelessly over the side of the hospital bed.

I grabbed onto her hand, now ice cold and rough. "Leafy...my love. How I wish I had spent more time with you. I- I was a fool not to talk to you for all those years."

I glanced at her wheelchair, which she only got to use for a few moments until it was her last. "I regret not being with you every moment I could...," I whispered.

"I wanted one last, gentle kiss from you. I wanted you to hold me close...like the ocean hugs the shore."

"I wanted every source of love that you could offer...before you passed on."

Oh, Leafy. How I miss you.

It's only been a moment or two, but I don't know how I'll live without you by my side.

I endlessly cried over her body, each droplet visible on her brittle, yellow surface.

I rubbed my useful hand against her cracks gently, feeling every edge and crevice.

"Even when you're shattering like glass...you're still beautiful."

I could've sworn I saw her bright, beautiful smile appear after I said that, but I probably just imagined it.

She was no longer with me, and I had to accept that.

But, I couldn't.

"Why'd you have to leave? WHY?!? TELL ME, WHY?!?" My heart ached in pain as I continued to stare at her dead body. "F-Fuck..."

My vision was blurred from my loud cries.

Even with her body still present, I could barely see her.

"I love you...so much."

I couldn't hear her, but I knew she said it back.

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Another chapter complete!! I'm sorry if this upset you, but I know you saw it coming.

The next chapter will be my last one for this fan fiction, and I just wanted to say thank you for all the support on it through these past couple of months!

To those who've read this far, you mean a lot to me :)

I will be releasing another fan fiction, which already has five chapters, about Fireafy (again!) So stay tuned :D

Chapter 25: Seasons Change.

Summary:

The End.

/Slight bl**d warning, heavy topics of death/

Firey's POV:

A month and a half has passed, and I'm finally back home.

I lay down on the couch, still coated in a metal shell.

I was told that it would have nasty effects on my flame in the future, but I didn't care.

It gave me a sense of...comfort. I would be ready if she were ever to return.

Ever since she passed, Apollo's been acting strange, almost as if he knew what happened.

He circled her bedroom every single day, around nighttime. I don't know why, but he did.

Life has been strange. Really strange.

My entire world has changed ever since she...passed.

Everyone is always checking up on me, and I like it, but I don't at the same time. I feel the need to sulk alone.

I held the matching teddy bears I gave Leafy for her birthday in my hand, tears piling back up again.

Oh, Leafy...if only you were here to hold the other one.

I felt a sudden tightness around my hand, shooting a spark in me. What...?

It...It felt like her grasp, that same feel.

I dropped her matching teddy bear on the ground when I felt the grip feel warmer. "Leafy?!?"

Is that you...?

Apollo ran up to me and licked my stitched palm, which was healed now, and whimpered.

I pet the top of his head, his eyes closing. "mmrph...," he whimpered.

"I miss her so much."

The door knocks, but I'm too lazy to get up and answer it.

It creaks open, and I notice Gelatin enter.

His green color... I-I can't look.

"Firey...?" He walked towards the couch where I lay, holding a container of soup. "I got you some lunch in case you're hungry...I know you haven't had the energy to make yourself anything."

"Just place it on the counter...I'll eat it later," I mumbled. I was grateful for it, I really was.

"Firey- I can't help but be concerned about your mental health. You haven't been eating, you've been staying up thinking about her, you've been throwing up, and you've been avoiding everyone!"

"Is it REALLY that big of a deal, Gelatin?!? I'm just- coping!"

"I feel bad."

"Don't...okay? I'm fine. It's been over a month now, anyway. The funeral already happened...she's already gone...I've dealt with it for this long, I can deal with it now."

Gelatin picked up the teddy bear and placed it in my hand. "Whatever you say. I'm not going to argue about it."

"Thanks, Gelatin," I said as I stared at the teddy bear with tears in my eyes. "I don't think I'll ever live a day where I don't miss her..."

Gelatin sat down on the couch next to me, twiddling his thumbs. "It's uh- a rough situation, I know. When I heard about it for the first time, I was in shock. I can't imagine how you feel, and I'm sorry for...well- everything that you're feeling."

I've never seen him act this seriously. "That phone call the night she died...I can't even explain the pain I was feeling. It felt like her claws digging into my flesh again...but deeper."

Gelatin choked his head in confusion. "Uh- what are you talking about? Who dug into your flesh?!?"

Shit! "Oh. Nobody...nobody. It was uh- a nightmare I had! Yeah, a nightmare...just a nightmare."

He gently patted my knee. "I worry about you, Fireboy."

"..."

"I'll let you be now, okay? I hope you feel better." He got up from the couch and inched closer to my face.

His green color...so vivid and clear...like Leafy.

"No...No, STOP!"

"Firey...?"

"I...I'm sorry."

"It's...fine. I'm just- a little confused," he said, shrugging it off. "I'll visit you soon."

———————————————————-

It's 7 PM, and I still haven't touched that soup. Heck, I haven't even touched a single drop of food today.

I wasn't hungry, and I don't think I ever will be. The void of loss filled that empty hole in my stomach instead.

My bed felt cold and empty, like the night of the storm before she came to comfort me.

Now, if there were a storm, there'd be no one there.

Maybe she'd be hiding behind the storm clouds like the sun, waiting to brighten up my day.

Or maybe she's the sun on a stormy night because it's no longer around.

Oh.

I tucked myself under the sheets, tossing and turning on each side until I fell asleep.

It's been a rough time trying to sleep lately. I can't stop thinking about her not being around.

The teddy bears stare at me, unfazed. While I stare at them lovingly, thinking about her before I sleep.

An entire month and a half without her.

Do the trees realize she's gone? Does the sidewalk miss the gentle skips of her feet? Do the flowers miss her loving gaze? Does that caterpillar look back at the memory of her watching it on her finger? Does the sun shine only to block out the sadness of missing her?

Is everyone missing her as much as I do?

Leafy's loving arms cradle me back and forth as she hums a song like a bird.

"What are you humming, my love?"

"Oh...just a song, sorry.

"No! No, don't apologize...it's beautiful."

"Thanks, Firey...I love you so much."

"I love you too, Leafy.

She snuggled me closer, her humming growing louder, then she sang.

"I have died every day waiting for you...darling, don't be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years...I'll love you for a thousand more." Her singing voice was soft and loving, making my heart flutter.

I rested my head against her arm, a sudden wave of comfort hitting me.

She continued to sing. "And all along I believed I would find you...time has brought your heart to me...I have loved you for a thousand years. I'll love you for a thousand more."

I fell asleep in her arms.

Until I opened my eyes.

"Leafy...?"

"..."

Oh.

I should've known it was too good to be true.

The clock read 2:00 AM. I've barely slept, and I don't think I'll be able to after that.

I got up from bed and left my room, making my way towards Leafy's.

The room was kept as it was when she was alive, and that's what made me love it so much.

It reminds me of the memories we had...comforting each other.

I climb into her soft, cushioned bed with her matching teddy bear in my hand.

Her bed still had her citrus smell, soothing my worry.

I closed my eyes, trying to pretend she was still next to me, fast asleep.

Then, I heard heavy footsteps from the hallway.

"Apollo...?"

Apollo came into her room and started frantically sniffing around, then growling.

"Whoa, calm down there, buddy! What's wrong?!"

"Grrr-up!" His gray fur stood up like strands of uncut grass as he sniffed a certain corner. "GRR-UP!"

"Apollo! Apollo, please!"

He stopped frantically moving around, and his hair strands were set at ease again.

What does he see that I don't?!

"I know you don't usually sleep at night, but please be respectful of me! I'm still trying to sleep!"

He stared at me with his big, blue eyes, then trotted out of the room.

I really need to get some sleep.

I hummed "A Thousand Years" to myself. It didn't sound as pretty, but whatever.

As long as there's a trace of her around, I'll feel better.

———————————————————

"FIREY! Wake up!"

"Wh-What?"

"Firey...it's 1 PM. I didn't expect you to be sleeping so- I got a little worried," Coiny said. "You left your door unlocked, by the way."

"Oh, crap...," I replied half-asleep.

"Have you been...sleeping okay?"

I stare at the teddy bear by my side. "Yeah, I've been fine."

"You know you can talk to me, right?"

"I know."

"Then why don't you?"

"I-I don't know, okay? I don't."

Coiny took a deep breath, relaxing himself from saying further. "Okay, that's fine. Gelatin and I are just- concerned about you, dude. You haven't left your house ever since the-"

"Ever since the funeral, yeah, I know."

I remember how her body looked in the casket. Her face looked so...empty and brittle.

"Maybe Pin and I can take you out today. Would that interest you?"

"I think I'll pass, but thanks."

Pin emerged from the hallway, her face tired and saddened. "We all miss her, Firey."

"I know...," I reply, my voice quivering.

"She was...a difficult person, but that didn't stop me from liking her, even after...everything. I miss her so much," Pin cried, Coiny rubbing her back.

Then, we all started to cry.

The amount of tears shed could've flooded an entire room in my house.

Well, at least that's what it felt like.

———————————————

The day grew colder as the fall weather smacked me in the face.

I had finally stepped foot outside, but it was only for one reason.

To go to her grave.

I had a few mums in my hand to place by her grave for the fall season, after all, she loved flowers.

Visiting her grave was tough. I couldn't get over the fact that the only thing left of her was a rock with her name etched on it.

I may be crazy, but every time I go by her grave, I can feel her presence. Almost as if she was never gone forever to begin with.

Maybe she was on a long vacation, or she was visiting her father for a few months, or she was growing a garden somewhere.

I wish it were one of those things, but instead, it was death.

Her father was a wreck at her funeral, and the thought of his pain pained me more. I hadn't met him before that day, but he seemed like an amazing father.

When I broke the news to him that she had passed unexpectedly, he wouldn't stop crying.

We had a similar reaction to her death, crying and a heartache.

I haven't spoken to him since the funeral, but I hope he's doing all right.

As for my parents, they didn't...show up to the funeral.

They said that they had "a lot of work to do."

I finally made it to the grave, fall leaves crunching beneath my feet as I walked toward it.

The stone looked...different.

Then, I saw something.

Her body was lying in the soil, out in the open, with a plant in her chest.

I covered my eyes, thinking about what I had just seen. "Who the fuck dug her up?!?"

My body trembled as I slowly turned around to her dirt-covered body, limp and frail.

She wasn't even yellow anymore; she was fading terribly. Her bare bones stuck out of her arms and legs, inhuman like.

She had a wound in her arm, which would crumble if I slightly touched it.

The plant in her chest was a sprout covered in soil. "Do I touch it?"

She looked worse than she did in the casket, and it's killing me. I didn't want to stare at her any longer, but I did at the same time.

But, wait. How could she have been dug up if there's no hole in the ground by her grave?!?

I slightly touched the sprout, its texture smooth and silky. When I poked it, I noticed her body twitch for a second, but then stopped.

"W-What?!?"

I touched it again, but more gently. Nothing this time.

She looked like she was in pain, even though she couldn't feel it.

I wanted to hug her, comfort her from the pain.

I'm confused on how the sprout got there, and why-

I noticed dry blood surrounding the soil.

She was ripped open from where her cracks were.

She was incomplete. There were many missing puzzle pieces, and I couldn't bear to look at them anymore.

I placed the four little mums in my hand by her lifeless, bony arm. "I...I love you so much. It really hurts to...see you like this."

I covered her with more soil, then started to trail off.

I slowly made my way back home, the leaves crunchier than before. The crisp air hit me hard, as I forgot what fall weather had felt like.

I was no longer able to keep myself warm with my own flame, as it has dimmed down and is no longer in use.

I want to stay this way for her.

Suddenly, I step on a big rock, piercing my foot. "OW!"

Where the hell did that even come from...? It wasn't there a second ago, I swear! I- I would've seen it!

I picked it up and noticed a dark, red splotch of blood on its edges.

I was immediately grossed out by it and went to throw it off somewhere, but I noticed a carving in the rock.

The carving reminded me of how Evil Leafy dug into my skin.

Painful.

I can't help but read the carved letters as the fall wind blows into my face.

The rock read, "Seasons change, Firey."

"And there's nothing else left to be done."

The End.

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I cannot believe this is my last chapter...genuinely.

It took me a couple of long months, but I've finally done it! I'm super proud of myself, and I appreciate those who supported me throughout the release of this fan fiction! It was fun, but saddening to write. I enjoyed every moment of it, though, and I can't wait to release my new one soon! I'll probably take a break for a little bit, but not too long.

Thank you to those who read this. I am sad that it is coming to an end, but I have nothing else to say.

"WE LOVE FIREAFY!" <3

(I'm not crying, you are!)