Mommy? A small voice asked.

I felt a small finger poking my arm. Hmm? I replied.

Mommy? He asked again.
I opened my eyes and forced a small smile. Yes?
He gave me a toothy grin. Good morning.
I could help but smile. He was adorable.
I blinked a few times and looked around the room, confused by the time.
What was he doing up? It was still early. I always wake him up. I sat up in the
bed and pulled him up to lie on me, sure I would find out soon enough.
What are you doing up this early? I asked, running through his brown
hair with my fingers.
He picked his head up. I want to go to the ocean.
I smiled. Of course he did. He wanted to go every day. I looked at him and
raised my eyebrows. Mommy please... I started for him.
Mommy, please can we go to the ocean, right now! He exclaimed,
getting jumpy.
I laughed. Right now?
He nodded.
I shook my head. After breakfast. I said. Maybe Sam will let you play on
the boat.
His eyes widened.
If you ask really nicely. I finished, wiggling my nose against his.
He wouldnt have to even ask. Sam pretended not to care but I knew he
couldnt say no.
He giggled. This is going to be so much fun! He cried.
All I could do was smile.
And, and, and we can find seashells, and walk in the sand, and draw
pictures, and He said excited.
Yes, we can do anything you want.
His little chubby fingers closed around my neck. He started to play with
my gold necklace that had our crest on it. He loves to play with it. We sat
there for a few minutes while I listened to him talk about the ocean. He loves
the ocean. Its his favorite place to go.
Just then, I heard the doorknob turn. Eddie came back into the room. His
hair fell in front of his face and his crown glistened. He wore a simple tunic
tucked into his belt with a vest. I could see bags forming under his eyes. I
knew hed been up well before the sun but he smiled when he saw us.
Morning. He said as he walked towards us. He kissed me on the
forehead.
Hi. I smiled.

1
 Ah, Nicholas, youre up early. Eddie said as he picked him up and held
him in his arms.
He smiled and looked up at him. Hi Daddy.
Eddie stopped him. Ah, remember what we talked about?
Good morning father. Nick corrected.
I sighed.
Eddie nodded and set him down on the ground. Good, now run along. It
is going to be a busy day.
Yes father! Nick said as he ran out of the room.
Well, we were supposed to go to the ocean, but I guess change of plans.
Eddie was always trying to get Nick involved in kingly thingseven though
he was just three. It was a bit ridiculous. But Nick loved him and would do
anything he asked.
Eddie walked over to the desk and started to shuffle through papers. I
turned to him. Eddie, hes three.
Eddie nodded and continued to look through his papers. Yes, but its
never too early to start acting like a king.
I nodded. Right. I said, my voice trailing.
The kid could barely talk, but it was never too early to rule a country.
Mmhmm. He said grabbing a piece of paper and started to read it.
I swallowed. Well, Nick wanted to go to the ocean today.
I really wish you wouldnt call him that. Eddie said, still skimming the
document. I think it confuses him.
I raised my eyebrows.
He looked up after a few seconds of silence and sighed when he saw the
way I was looking at him. No, I didnt mean He paused. I just think you
coddle him too much.
Well, he is my child. I defended, standing up.
Which is why hes perfect. Eddie said, holding his hands up in surrender
and forcing a smile.
He is. I agreed. No matter what we call him.
Eddie looked back down to the paper and silence filled the room. It was
always busy. I swear I was losing him. Everyday was like this now.
How are you? I asked.
He nodded. Busy.
Is everything ready for the banquet tonight?
Getting there. Just some last minute things to take care of. The Emperor
is on his way for the negotiations. The treaty requires all three of the kings
signatures and I think it would be a good idea if Nicholas was a part of it.
Oh, umm, okay. I said quietly.

2
 Eddie stopped reading and walked towards me. He is going to be the
best king that Celestia has ever had.
I hugged him. Thats impossible.
Why?
Because I am looking at the best king that Celestia has ever had. I said,
adjusting his crown.
He smiled and kissed me once. Oh really?
I nodded.
He put his forehead against mine. Well lucky you.
I know. I said, leaning in to kiss him again.
He pulled away from me. Ive got to run. Chatura is waiting for me. He
said as he started to walk away.
I sighed and crossed my arms. Okay.
He stopped walking. Are you alright?
I nodded.
He turned around. Whats wrong?
I shook my head. Nothing.
He stepped back towards me. Tell me.
Nothing.
Mallory, I know when youre lying so you might as well just tell me.
I looked down. Eddie, its fine.
Is it?
I nodded.
He stopped in front of me. Whats wrong?
I shook my head again. Its fine.
Are you sick?
I shook my head.
Are you angry?
I shook my head.
Eddie swallowed. Are you unhappy?
I didnt want to bother him, but honestly, everyday he seemed farther and
farther away. I hated it.
I sighed. No, no its not necessarily
He cut me off. Youre unhappy.
I shook my head. No, I just...
He touched my face and rubbed my cheek with his thumb. Oh my god,
youre unhappy.
I looked up at him. No
I saw concern in his eyes. Mal, I cant have you unhappy.
Eddie, Im not...

3
 Then whats wrong?
I sighed. You, youve just gotten really busy these last few
He swallowed. I, I know I have.
And well, I feel like Im losing you a little
No, no sweetie
I stopped him. And Im not paranoid, or anything like that...
He pushed my chin up gently with his fingers. Stop.
I swallowed.
Eddie nodded. Mallory I love you more than anything.
And I love you. I interrupted.
I just need to reprioritize.
I shook my head, feeling annoying. No, Celestia needs you.
But, I need you more. He smiled.
I saw complete and total love in his eyes, reminding me why I fell in love
with him in the first place, even though he was such an ass sometimes.
I smiled back at him and kissed him.
He let go of me after a second. Tell you what. Tonight, after the treaty
signing, Im all yours. He smirked.
I rubbed his arms. Oh goody.
He backed away from me. Come downstairs after you get ready. He
smiled as he walked out of the door.
I returned the smile. Okay, Ill be down in a few.
Then, Eddie was gone. I sat back down on the bed. I didnt want to be
that needy wife. I wasnt. I just didnt want to lose him and he had distanced
himself lately because hes been so busy with all things Celestian.
What a crazy ten years its been.
After Eddie asked me to marry him, I thought that my life was perfect.
There was peace in Celestia and everyone loved the three kings. All
remnants of winter were disposed of and Bernard was never heard from
again. The whole time, I couldnt believe that it was happening. We moved
into the castle and reforms began immediately. It was crazy.
The only bad part was that Deonesus left the day after they were
crowned. We havent seen or heard from him since. Poor Noah was
devastated.
Noah, even though he was only eight at the time, won the hearts of all of
the Celestians. Hes 18 now and still acts like a little kid. He handles all
Celestian relations.
And Sam? Lets just say hes more of a pirate than anything. Still
sarcastic, always looking for a fight. I dont know how Zola puts up with it.
The ice castle melted away revealing a beautiful old stone palace. We

4
renamed it the Lochstone. I know, not really creative. We call it the Loch for
short. We converted that over and now Sam usually stays thereyou know,
its closer to Zola. I dont know, I still dont understand them. Sam spends
most of his time traveling Celestia. He calls himself the foreign diplomat
ambassador or somethinga glorified pirate basically. See what I mean?
Which leads us once again to Eddie, oh, Eddie. Dont get me wrong, I love
him to death but he has changed the most out of the three of them. He takes
everything so seriously. But I mean, I guess that I would be too if I had to run
a country. Work oftenokay, alwayscame first for him. He slept only a few
hours an evening and was always working on negotiations or treaties.
Honestly, it bothered me, but what could I say to him? Stop running the
country and pay attention to me?
Yeah, right.
They left me for a year. Yes, I said it. A year. Eddie left me for a year, the
worst year on my life. The three left to reunite the Southern Territories, but I
had to stay at the palace. It was completely ridiculous. Thats when I started
to notice the distance between him and I. I knew he loved me more than
anyone, but his duty came first.
Our son was born three years ago. I had wanted children for a while now,
but Eddie was hesitant. I knew he thought it was too dangerousgod forbid
anything terrible happen to me again. Luckily, I was smart and was able to
trick him into it. Okay, I know thats a terrible thing to say. An absolutely
terrible thing to say. Eddies judgment was just clouded. He was too worried
about me to even realize what an amazing thing a child would be. And I was
right. Eddie loved Nicholas. He absolutely adored him.
And I did too. He was my pride and joy. He had the bluest eyes, just like
Eddie. And his laugh, oh his laugh. It filled my heart with indescribable
happiness. God, he was perfect. And he was smart, oh he was so smart. He
was completely perfect.
I got up from the bed started to rummage through my closet, eventually
deciding on a dark dress with golden embroidery. I looked in the mirror and
brushed my hair out of my face, pulling half of it into a braid. I looked down
and smoothed my dress. I nodded.
I walked from our room and down the grand staircase. The marble was
cold to the touch as I ran my hand down the railing. Eddie was in his throne
conversing with Chatura, who had gotten older and grayer, but apparently
still had a lot of years left in his life.
Nick was standing impatiently next to him in his little royal getup. He was
trying so hard to pay attention, to impress Eddie, but I knew he just wanted
to play. He kept adjusting his crown and looking over the arm of the chair.

5
Eddie had his hand on Nicks back. I smiled.
Even though Eddie is really stern with him, I could tell that he loved him to
death. He may not show it, but I knew it. When I reached the end of the
staircase, Nick turned around. His eyes widened and he grinned.
Mommy! He cried as he ran towards me.
Eddie turned around suddenly when Nick ran away from him, but when he
met eyes with me, I saw a small smile on his face. I picked up Nick and
walked towards them. When I reached them, Chatura bowed.
My queen. He said deeply.
I smiled. Chatura, how are you today? I asked politely, pulling down
Nicks tunic and fixing his crown.
He smiled back. I am well. I came to report that the Perisarian Emperor of
the North has left his palace and will be here by sundown.
I nodded and I turned to Eddie. He took my hand and kissed it. Mal,
would you mind checking on Noah and Sam? I need to meet with them
before the Emperor arrives. He said, kissing my hand again.
I smiled. Sure. Lets go Nick. I said setting him down. Eddie went back to
talking with Chatura.
Nick started to walk with me, but then turned back to Eddie. Umm,
Father? Is it okay if I go?
Eddie stopped his conversation with Chatura and looked at him. Yes,
Nicholas. Go ahead. Eddie said, looking back up at me and smirking.
I rolled my eyes.
Nick nodded. Thank you Father!
He ran back towards me and grabbed my hand. We walked through the
hall and down one of the corridors. He hummed the entire time. When we
finally got to the drawing room, it looked empty. Nick ran inside first, eager to
see Noah and Sam. He loves them. He started to look around.
I did the same, but I couldnt see them anywhere. Nick walked around
slowly and began checking behind chairs and shelves. He got to a suit of
armor and jumped back when it growled. Here we go again. I saw Noah peek
his head out from behind it. He was laughing.
Whoa, did I scare you little guy? He said.
Nick started to laugh and ran back towards him. Ha! I found you! He
said pointing at Noah.
I smiled, walking forward. Noah picked up Nick and walked towards me.
Hey Mal! Whats up?
Nick was still laughing. I rolled my eyes. Gets him every time. I smiled.
Noah set Nick down and he ran over to the big chair by the window. He
managed to get up in it after what looked to be a valiant struggle. He

6
perched himself on the arm and started to stare intently at the ocean.
Remember how much he loves the water?
I walked in between the tables and Noah walked with me. I ran my hand
along the table. There were books and scrolls everywhere. I turned to him.
When are you going to clean this up?
It is clean, Mal.
No its not! There is no organization at all! Books are just thrown
everywhere!
I have a system! He said like it was obvious.
I laughed. Oh right.
He pointed to the books and scrolls on the table to the left. These are
reference books, you know, maps, dictionaries, that kind of stuff. He pointed
to the bookshelf on the wall. Stories. He pointed to the other table.
Records. He pointed to the table in front of us. And I have no idea.
I sighed. Well youve got some work to do. I said, looking at the huge
stack of books and scrolls on the table.
He nodded. Yeah, thankfully Ive got some time. He gestured to Nicholas
perched up on the chair. And some company.
I couldnt help but smile.
So are you just here to drop him off, or what? He asked.
I swallowed. Oh, um, no. I laughed. Eddie wanted me to tell you that
the Perisarian Emperor is coming at sundown.
He raised an eyebrow. Okay, did he say anything else? He asked.
Something about a meeting beforehand.
He nodded. Just the two of us? What about Sam?
I looked around. Yeah, he wants him there too. Where is he? Eddie said
that it was urgent.
Noah looked at me. Umm, I havent seen him yet today. I think that he
went to the Loch to see Zola.
Crap.
My eyes widened. No, thats not good. He has to be here. He wont make
it back in time.
What do you want me to do about it? He asked confused.
Ugh, we have to tell Eddie.
We? Noah held his hands up in surrender. Umm, no thank you.
I rolled my eyes. Come on.
We started to walk towards the door. I turned around. Nick? I said.
Yes? He replied still staring out the window.
Its time to leave.
Okay. He said trying to get out of the chair.

7
 He walked up to us slowly, shuffling his feet. Noah smiled down at him.
Race ya! He said.
Nicks eyes widened. He took a deep breath and started to run down the
hallway with his cape flying behind him. Now, I know that Noah could easily
out run a three year old, but you know how it is. You always let the little kid
win right?
Noah turned to me and shrugged. Ill give him a head start.
I nodded. Sure you will.
Nick was already at the end of the corridor. He turned back to us. Im
going to beat you! He said joyfully.
Noah turned to me, saluted, and took off towards Nick. I sighed deeply,
following them out. When I got to the grand hall, Nick was almost on the
other side. Noah was running after him, but as soon as he saw Eddie staring
at him, he stopped. I caught up with Noah and walked with him.
Good call. I said under my breath.
Noah pretended to be tired. I, umm, had a cramp.
I smirked. Right
Eddie stood up slowly and started to walk towards Nick with a confused
and somewhat annoyedlook on his face.
Nicholas? What is going on?
Nick held his arms out in front of him, thinking that Noah was still chasing
him. Father! Uncle Samuel isnt here!
Eddie scooped Nick up in his arms and looked up at me. What do you
mean Sam isnt here? He asked angrily.
I shrugged. I dont know. Noah said that he was at the Loch. I said
slowly.
His eyebrows scrunched together. But, but I told him to stay here
yesterday!
By this time, Noah and I had reached him. I looked up at Eddie. Eddie,
hes not here. What do you want us to do?
Eddie paused for a second, sighing deeply. I guess that we will just have
to go get him. Well have to have the meeting there. He gave Nick back to
me and turned to Chatura. Okay, Ill have to grab my notes. Chatura. He
beckoned for him to follow. He turned back to us.
Stables, half an hour. Do not be late. He said, pointing at Noah.
Noah raised his hands in defense. Hey, you know me. Im the punctual
one of the bunch.
Eddie sighed and looked at me. You too, Mallory.
I scrunched my eyebrows. Me?
Yes, I need you there so that I dont completely rip Sams head off. He

8
said, walking away with Chatura.
I smiled. Fine. A half an hour, in the stables. You got it. I called after
them. I turned to Noah. Congratulations, you are now the favorite brother.
Noah smirked and leaned in close to me. Always have been. He said as
he turned from me and ran up the staircase on the other side of the hall.
I rolled my eyes. Nick was starting to get fidgety in my arms so I set him
down. When I did, he looked up at me.
Mommy, where are you going? He asked exasperated.
Daddy, Noah, and I have to go get Sam at the Loch.
He scrunched his eyebrows. The what?
Oh, sorry. Its the other castle a ways from here. I think we took you
there once when you were a baby.
Is there water there?
Yes, a beautiful lake. I said, starting to walk for the stairs.
With waves, and seashells? He asked, excited, following me.
I smiled. Come on, lets go upstairs and Ill tell you all about it.
He smiled and took my hand. We walked up the stairs and I led him into
my bedroom. Gretta had just finished making the bed.
She turned to me and bowed. My queen.
I smiled. Hi Gretta.
She studied Nick for a moment. Nick let go of my hand and ran over to the
desk. Gretta smiled. Hes grown out of his clothes again.
Has he? I asked surprised.
She nodded.
I sighed. Hes growing so fast.
Its good my lady. He has survived infancy.
Thank goodness.
He seems extremely healthy.
Right. Thats because Eddie thinks hes a doctor.
I rolled my eyes. Yeah, Eddie has made sure of that. He never lets
anything bad happen to him.
She smiled. We are all so blessed.
I looked over at Nick. I know.
She sighed. Well, I must be going now.
I nodded. Thanks Gretta.
She smiled back and walked out of the room. I looked at Nick, who was
trying desperately to get up on the chair, but was too small. He had pushed
up his shirt and his cape was a mess. I walked over to him and knelt down
next to him.
He looked at me. I need help. He said with a huff.

9
 I smiled. Okay. I said as I reached over and lifted up his shirt to pull it
down over his stomach.
He gasped and grabbed his shirt. My secret squiggle! He cried, looking
down to his stomach.
I started to laugh. He has a birthmark on his stomach that looks like a
lightning bolt. He calls it his secret squiggle. I touched his stomach. Yes, its
special.
Its our special secret! You didnt tell anyone mommy, right? He asked
scrunching his eyebrows.
Yeah, he likes to keep it a secret, hence the secret squiggle. I leaned in
close to him and put my head against his. Its our secret. Im never going to
tell anyone. I smiled.
He started to laugh and pulled down his shirt. He turned around and
started to try and get in the chair again. I picked him up and set him down in
it. I pushed in the chair as he reached for the quill. I sighed again and moved
it closer to him. I stacked up Eddies papers and moved them out of the way.
I opened a drawer and pulled out a blank sheet of parchment. I set it in front
of Nick. He grabbed the quill eagerly and began scribbling on the paper. I
smiled.
Now, I know, that Eddie would want him practicing like writing and stuff,
but I mean, he was still only three. He can hardly read. When Eddie wasnt
around, I just let Nick scribble. He seemed happy enough. He started to
hum and kick his feet. I turned and walked towards the other side of the
room. I walked into the wardrobe area and got dressed in something more
suitable for riding. I came back out a little while later. Nick was still drawing
happily. Man, I loved that kid. I walked over to my mirror and opened the
jewelry box. I fished around until I reached the bottom.
I pulled out a necklace, actually a locket. There wasnt anything inside of
it. My mother had given it to me, you know, way back when. Sometimes, I
pull it out just to remind myself that Im not Celestian. Even though I feel like
I am.
Just then, I felt a tug on my dress. I turned around. Nick was standing
there. What is that?
I, umm, nothing. I said putting it away quickly.
Mommy. He said.
I stared into his big blue eyes as he looked up at me. I sighed, knowing
hed have me beat. I grabbed the necklace and knelt down next to him. Its
a necklace honey.
His eyes lightened. A necklace! Let me see!
I held it out in front of him. His eyes widened as he focused intently on it.

10
He reached out to touch it. After a few seconds, he reached out and touched
the one on my neck. Hey, theyre the same! He exclaimed.
I smiled. He seemed so excited. I unclipped the necklace in my hands
and put it around his neck. His mouth dropped open. Really? But what
about father?
I smiled. What he doesnt know wont kill him. I said tucking it
underneath his shirt.
You know, Eddie doesnt want him wearing womens jewelry.
I stood up and reached for my belt. I strapped it around my waist.
Mommy... He started.
What? I asked, turning around.
I made this for you.
He gave me a picture. Granted it was a bunch of squiggly scratches with a
few circles, but it was cute. I looked up at him. Nick! This is great!
This is father, this is you, and this is me! He said pointing at the picture
with his little stubby fingers.
I smiled. Where should we hang it up?
He hopped around the room, pointing at places until finally he found a
place he liked, right above the bed.
I laughed. Perfect! I said walking over to my bed and sticking it above
the headboard with a nail.
Nick threw his arms in the air. Now we can be together always!
I scooped him up into my arms. Always.
All of a sudden, he saddened. How long are you going to be gone? He
whined.
I touched his cheek. Ill be back at sundown.
He nodded. Okay.
He reached down underneath his shirt and pulled out the necklace to look
at. He couldnt figure out how to get it open. I smiled and opened the locket.
He shut it and tried to open it himself, but he still couldnt. I walked all the
way to the stables in silence as Nick hummed to himself happily. When we
finally got there, Noah was already inside getting his horse ready for the trip.
When he heard us walk in, he turned.
Hey guys! He said.
Nick immediately stopped playing with the necklace and put it back under
his shirt. He started to scramble around in my arms, so I set him down. He
immediately ran to Noah.
Noah! He exclaimed.
Noah picked him up. Whats up little dude?
Im a fast runner! He smiled.

11
 I know you are!
I beat you! He giggled.
You did.
I won!
Just then, Noah scrunched his eyebrows. Hey Nicholas? He asked.
Nicks eyes widened. What!
Noah reached up and grabbed Nicks nose. I got your nose! He said,
making it look like he had taken Nicks nose in his hand.
I rolled my eyes. Every time.
Nicks eyes widened again and he started to frantically touch his face.
No! Give it back! He cried.
I cleared my throat. Noah, please...
Nick looked back to Noah in despair. Noah, please give it back!
Noah held his fist out in front of Nick. No, I have it right here. He said.
Nick started to reach for it. No! Its my nose, not yours!
Noah started to laugh. Okay, okay Ill give it back.
Nick held out his hand.
Noah snatched his fist back. Whats the password?
Monkey brains! Nick exclaimed.
I smiled. Typical Noah.
Noah nodded. Very good, heres your nose back. Let me sew it on for
you.
Okay! Nick said excited. He closed his eyes and leaned forward, waiting
for Noah.
Noah smiled and pretended to put Nicks nose back on. Just then, his
mouth dropped open. Oh no! I dropped it!
Pick it up! Pick it up! Nick cried waving his arms.
Noah bent over and pretended to pick it up. He put it back on and sighed.
There you go Nicholas. Good as new.
Nick opened his eyes and touched his nose frantically. He exhaled with
relief. Thank you.
I smiled. I heard people talking behind us. I turned and saw Eddie walking
in with Chatura. Someone came up to him. Sir, your horse is ready.
Eddie nodded. Noah walked towards him with Nick still in his arms. I
walked with him. Eddie turned to us.
Okay, lets go. We have to get back here before the Emperor arrives.
He turned to Chatura. Watch after things while I am gone. If anything
comes up, please send someone or use your best judgment. I trust you.
Chatura nodded. Eddie sighed. Lets go.
Noah turned to Nick. Alright bud. Ill see you when I get back.

12
 Nick smiled. Okay!
Noah handed him to me. Nick looked at me. I smiled. Be good while Im
gone, okay?
He nodded.
Okay, give me a kiss.
He gave me a kiss and rested his head on my shoulder.
I love you. I said hugging him.
I love you mommy. He said quietly.
I stroked his hair and shut my eyes. I think I loved him more than anything
in the world.
I heard Eddie step forward. I opened my eyes and he met eyes with me. I
handed Nick to him. Eddie held his hand up and Nick grabbed his thumb.
Eddie swallowed after a second. Yes, Nicholas, be good while were gone.
Dont get into too much trouble. Practice your writing.
I rolled my eyes. Nick looked at him. Yes father.
He set him down. He knelt down and kissed the top of his head. I love
you.
Nick put his arms around Eddies neck and hugged him. I love you
daddy.
I smiled. Chatura picked up Nicholas. Eddie got up on the horse and Noah
got on the other one. I turned back to Nick. He held his arm out.
I walked towards him and kissed him on the cheek. Bye sweetie.
He nodded. I got on the horse behind Eddie. I put my arms around his
waist. Eddie turned to Noah. Lets go.
Noah pointed at him. Okay, just remember that I wasnt the one who
wasnt here.
Eddie rolled his eyes. Noah smirked and flicked the reins. Eddie did the
same and we followed him out. I turned around and saw Chatura holding
Nick in his arms. Nick was staring right at me. He waved. I smiled and then
we were gone. We were racing through the fields. I rested my head on
Eddies back.
Eddie looked back at me quickly. Well be back in a few hours.
I smiled. I know. I just hate leaving him like that.
Hell be fine. Hes a strong boy.
Just like his father.
Eddie started to laugh. Right.
By that time, we were racing towards the river. I looked around and
realized that this was where the battle took place 10 years ago. I
remembered that day. I put my chin on Eddies shoulder. Remember when
you said that you loved me here 10 years ago?

13
 Eddie smiled. Yes Mal. Youll never let me forget it.
Thats right. I said.
Noah was riding next to us. Oh my god. I totally get where Sams coming
from. You guys are so annoying.
I started to laugh. Eddie did too. We rode the rest of the way just making
small talk. My goal was to keep Eddie as calm as possible, but I knew hed
blow up at Sam the second he saw him.
After some time, we finally crossed the lake in front of the Loch. Seeing
the water made me think of Nick. I should have brought him with us. He
would have loved it. But then again, trying to get a three-year-old ready for
any kind of travel was stressful enough, let alone on Eddies schedule. Eddie
and Noah stopped the horses and we got off. Eddie charged through the
front gate and into the grand hall. Noah and I followed him slowly.
As we walked in, people started to bow. We made it to the thrones, but
they were empty. Eddie looked around for a second. Finally, someone
emerged from a room behind the thrones.
Eddie sighed. Orion, how are you?
Orion bowed. My king. I am well.
Where is Sam? He asked.
Orion scrunched his eyebrows. I, I, am sorry my king, but he is not here.
All of our eyes widened. Eddie turned around and closed his eyes. Great.
Of course he wasnt. Eddie took a deep breath. He turned back to Orion. Do
you know where he went?
Orion shook his head slowly. I, umm, assume that he would be visiting
my sister if anything. Is something wrong?
I could hear Noah snort next to me. There is now. He said quietly.
I rolled my eyes. Thankfully, Eddie didnt hear him.
Eddie walked towards Orion. Well, Sam was supposed to be at the other
palace to prepare for the Emperor tonight! But hes not so we rushed here,
only for you to tell us that hes off on the other side of freaking Celestia with
his girlfriend! Do you think that somethings wrong? He yelled.
Orion started to cringe. I rushed forward. Okay, Okay Eddie. I said,
standing in front of him and putting my hand on his chest. Dont yell at
Orion. He didnt do anything wrong. Eddie was breathing deeply and his
nostrils flared, still staring at Orion. I sighed. Eddie. I said forcefully. Look
at me. I said, turning his head to look at me. His eyes met mine and he
calmed down immediately. Eddie, its okay. Well just go get him. Were
nearly there. It will be nice to pay Zola a visit. We havent been to the woods
in a while. Well make it back just in time.
He started to nod. Well have to hurry.

14
 I backed away from him.
He looked up calmly at Orion. My apologies Orion.
Orion bowed his head. It is alright, my lord.
Eddie nodded and turned towards the door. He stormed out. I smiled
apologetically at Orion. He forced a small smile. I turned and started to walk
towards the door after Eddie. Noah caught up with me. How do you do
that? He asked in awe.
I smirked. I have been told that its a gift.
Noah laughed.
We made it back to the horses. Eddie was already on one. Noah ran
forward, kicked off the stirrup, and mounted the horse with ease. I sighed.
Show off. I muttered, under my breath. I swear I could see Noah smirk out
of the corner of my eye.
Eddie helped me up. He flicked the reins and we were off. Noah sped off
ahead of us. I rested my head on Eddies shoulder. He sighed. Thanks for
back there.
I forced a small smile. Any time.
Its just sometimes I wish that people would actually listen to me and do
what I tell them. Its infuriating.
Hes your brother. Obviously hes not going to listen to you, even if you
are the king.
Eddie sighed. I know. Thats why Im glad that Nicholas doesnt have a
brother.
I smirked and leaned forward to kiss his cheek. Well, you dont know.
Youre all mine tonight.
He smiled. Well see.
Oh really?
He laughed. I mean yes. Im all yours tonight.
Good.
We were silent for a minute. Eddie sighed. Mal, Im doing a good job
right?
With what?
Everything.
Well, I think so.
I just wish we got here sooner.
Why?
So I would know what I was doing. Thats why I want Nicholas to learn
how to be a king so young. Not like me. I still have no idea what I am
doing.
I took a deep breath. Eddie, hes just a baby. Hes trying so hard to

15
please you, but still hes just a little kid.
I know. I feel bad sometimes for being so hard with him. He sighed. You
have it easy. Everyone loves their mom. He said slowly.
I scrunched my eyebrows. Are you seriously trying to tell me that Nick
doesnt like you?
I mean, I dont know! He cried.
I tried to hide the fact that I was smiling. Eddie, he will love you not
matter what you do to him.
I know that.
Eddie, everyone loves you. You just dont think that they do. Its just one
of the perks of being a king.
He sighed. Lovely.
I started to laugh.
I tried to distract him for the rest of the way but I knew he was too
concerned about the Emperor. Leave it to Sam to always cause trouble.
We headed up the eerily familiar path to Zolas cave. At the bottom of the
mountain, there was a black horse tied up. Eddie tied up the horses while
Noah and I walked up the trail to her cave. We made it to the entrance and
walked in. To our relief, Sam and Zola were there. Zola saw us first.
She stopped talking to Sam. Hey! What are you all doing here?
Sam whirled his head around. He scrunched his eyebrows. Noah? Mal?
What are you doing here?
I raised my eyebrows. We should ask you the same question.
Noah just shook his head. Busted.
Sam raised an eyebrow.
Just then, Eddie stormed in. Sam stood up. Eddie?
Eddies eyes narrowed as he pushed through us and stopped and inch
from Sams face. What are you doing here! I told you to stay at Soliel for a
meeting before the Emperor arrives! He said poking his chest angrily.
Sam backed away a foot, holding his hands up in surrender. His eyes
widened. You said that was tomorrow!
I shut my eyes and cursed silently.
Eddie looked at him exasperated. Yeah, yesterday! He yelled.
Sam paused of a second, lost in thought. Then, he nodded. Oh... He said
his voice trailing. I didnt sleep last night. That makes sense.
Unbelievable. Eddie said, rubbing his face with his hand.
Hey, man, I didnt
Do you know how important these negotiations are? I specifically told
you to stay put yesterday during supper, and now by the time that we arrive
back, we will be late.

16
 You cant expect me to be paying attention while Im eating!
Eddie shook his head. Actually, I can. Youre a king! Its time you started
acting like one.
Sam pointed at him, his expression angering. I do act like one. Im just
not some stuck up, sissy prick like you are!
God, these two were the worst.
Eddie pushed him away. How dare you He roared.
I pulled Eddie away before it got any uglier, putting myself in between the
two of them. Instead of arguing and acting like four-year-olds, why dont we
get going and see if we can still make it? I suggested, nearly snapping at
them.
Youre right. Eddie hissed. Lets go, now. He said, spinning around.
Zola will you please alert Chatura to stall the Emperor and tell him that we
will be late because my dipshit brother doesnt know how to tell time. He
growled, walking back towards the opening of the cave.
Zola nodded. Yes, my king. She mumbled, bowing her head.
Sam rolled his eyes, walking back to get his things. Dont call him that.
He scoffed. You know I dont like that.
Zola sighed, looking at us.
I forced a smile.
Besides, if anyones your king, its me. He added, shouldering his bow
and walking back towards her. He pulled her into a side hug, smirking.
She looked at him annoyed and crossed her arms.
Only joking. Sam grinned. Kind of. He said, kissing her lightly.
She pushed him away, suppressing a smile.
He gave her a small wave. Ill see you tonight. He paused. That is if
Eddie doesnt murder me before we get there. Which is a high possibility.
She laughed. Goodbye.
Sam walked out with us and put an arm around both of us. What crawled
up his ass? He asked, looking down at Eddiewho was waiting impatiently
for us.
I exhaled. Oh, you know how much he likes when things dont go
according to plan.
Noah patted Sams chest. Which reminds me. I would just like to thank
you for now officially making me the favorite brother.
I rolled my eyes. Oh, please dont start again.
Sam turned to him. Oh, you really wanna play this game?
Noah shrugged, challenging him.
Hows the love life going? Still single I see. Huh, pity. Sam shot back.
Noah raised an eyebrow. Youd be one to talk! At least Im not in love

17
with some eternal maiden who isnt even supposed to talk to men.
Mountain guardian! Sam corrected.
Whatever, same thing.
No its not! Get it right for once!
Noah ran in front of us and started to run backwards. Maybe I will when
you, get a haircut. He grinned.
Sams mouth dropped open. Shut up! I can have whatever hairstyle I
want. You wanna know why?
Because youre a king? Noah mocked.
Yeah! And I have a mountain named after me!
Ugh, here we go.
Noah rolled his eyes. You cheated!
I did not!
It was a race... Noah started.
Which I won. Sam interjected.
Because you pushed me over at the start!
Not my fault you couldnt catch up.
Sam, I did catch up.
Well... Sam started.
Noah cut him off. But then you pushed me over again!
Sam snorted. Oh yeah, I forgot about that. I am a genius. He said
triumphantly.
Just you wait until the next mountain we discover. Noah said evilly,
turning around and running down to the bottom.
Yeah, okay. Sam scoffed. He sighed and turned to me. So, hows
Nicholas doing today? Any broken bones?
I smiled. No. I laughed.
Sam nodded. Figures. The whole palace shuts down if he gets one tiny
scrape on his knee. He said sarcastically.
I looked at him offended. Well sorry if I dont want anything bad to
happen to him!
Sam held his hands up in surrender. Just saying. Its part of being a kid.
I crossed my arms. And to think I was going to allow you to take him on
your boat.
That is a fantastic idea! Sam said, holding out his arms happily. We can
set sail tomorrow.
Absolutely not.
He sighed. Oh come on. You know Ill look after him.
For all I know, your idea of looking after him will be watching as he
crawls overboard! I retorted.

18
 Hes got to learn to swim somehow! Sam reasoned.
I elbowed him in the stomach.
We were silent for a second. Sam cleared his throat. And just so you
know, I won that race fair and square.
I rolled my eyes. Sam, no you didnt.
Fine, but I really wanted that mountain!
Theres nothing even up there!
Yeah, but its mine!
By that time, we had made it to the bottom. Noah and Eddie were already
on their horses. Sam jumped on his and I sat behind Eddie. Eddie would still
not talk to Sam. I gave him a warning squeeze. He needed to grow up.
Sam sighed. Okay, look Eddie. I said that I was sorry.
Eddies eyes narrowed. No you didnt! You just insulted me!
Well, you insulted me too!
He rolled his eyes. I swear to
I nudged him.
He gritted his teeth together. Lets just go.
Itll be fine. Sam promised. I know a short cut that will get us there
faster. He paused. I think. He added.
He raised an eyebrow, looking back at me. I shrugged. Literally I would do
anything to remedy this situation.
He turned back to Sam. Fine, lead the way. He said, annoyed.
Sam forced a small smile and headed off into the woods. We followed
him. After about twenty minutes of zigzagging through trees, Sam stopped.
We had emerged into a clearing. Noah raised an eyebrow. Well? He asked.
Sam was muttering quietly under his breath. He looked up at us. Umm,
well I thought that I was going the right way.
Eddies eyes narrowed. You mean to tell me that youre lost? He asked
annoyed.
Sam shrugged. Hopelessly. I have no clue where we are. He said.
Noah sighed. Lost in our own kingdom. Well thats embarrassing. He
said under his breath.
Eddie still had his eyes on Sam. How are we ever supposed to make it
back in time now! You said that you knew where we were going!
I, I thought I did!
I decided to intervene before things got bad again. Okay, okay. Lets look
for a marker or something that we recognize. Maybe someone can help us.
They all shrugged. We got off the horses and started to walk around. I
looked up. The trees looked like the ones in the Whispering Woods. Well if
they were, then we were definitely going the wrong way.

19
 After a few minutes, I could hear Noah in the distance. Hey guys! Check
this out!
We all ran towards him. We emerged into the clearing and found him
standing next to this peculiar grape vine alone in the middle. Sam raised an
eyebrow. What on earth is a grape vine doing out here? He wondered.
Why was I having an extreme case of dj vu right now?
I sighed. I have no idea, but it looks really familiar.
Eddie nodded in agreement. Noahs mouth dropped open. Wait a
minute.
He started to walk away from it towards a patch of trees in front a stone
cliff. Where was he going? We all ran after him.
Sam caught up with him. What are you doing?
Looking for something.
Eddie raised an eyebrow. What?
I looked at Noah confused.
Just then, he disappeared in the trees. Noah? I called out.
Nothing.
Eddie and Sam started to call his name. We ran towards the trees. Eddie
pushed them back to reveal a cave. Sam raised an eyebrow. Umm, maybe
hes in there?
I shrugged, squinting, but I couldnt see anything.
Eddie sighed. Alright, lets go look for him.
We started to walk into the cave, our footsteps echoing. Suddenly I heard
a voice coming closer.
No stop! Dont come in here! Stop! No! Dont come in! He cried. The
voice was high pitched, like that of a childs.
Sam and Eddie exchanged glances, but quickened their pace.
I turned around, but there was nothing behind me. I could feel Eddies
hand slip into mine, pulling me forward. The opening of the cave was gone.
Wait what?
Eddie... I mumbled, my voice trailing.
A small child appeared in front of us out of breath. Oh no! He cried. I
tried to warn you.
My mouth dropped open as I recognized who he was. Noah? You look so
young! What is going on? I asked.
He looked at us pleadingly. Im sorry, guys. I really am. I didnt know
where the cave was leading!
What are you talking about? I said urgently.
Were young again. He said holding up a flashlight.

20
I dropped Eddies hand and looked down at myself, noticing I was in jeans
and barefoot. I looked to Eddie. He was young too. His eyes widened.
Uncle Ernie He whispered.
What? Sam asked.
Were back. Eddie managed. In Napa.
Back? Sam yelled. We cant be back!
What? Were back.
Home, home. Napa, home.
No!
Dont you guys get it? Noah said sadly. Were back in the wine cellar.
Just like we were ten years ago. We arent in Celestia anymore. He
managed.
All of our mouths dropped open.
Sam put his hand on his forehead. Oh my god, its all coming back to me
now. With spring break, and the robber!
Eddies voice was a whisper. Wait, this cant be right. Hes still up there.
No time has passed. Its like we werent even gone. He said.
Noah nodded. Yeah. Im so sorry, guys! I really am! I didnt mean to! I
tried to warn you. He said in his little eight-year-old voice.
Sam shrugged. So, lets just walk back through the cave.
Noah looked at him. I had a hard time looking at him now that he was only
eight years old again. Dont you get it? We cant just waltz back in
whenever we feel like it! It doesnt work that way!
No! We have to go back.
I finally came out of shock. But, but we have to go back! I said urgently.
They all paused for a second and finally let it sink in. We couldnt just
leave like that! What about all of our things?
Wait.
I whipped around and met eyes with Eddie. He looked at me with a
concerned look in his eyes. I could tell that we were both thinking the same
thing: Nicholas.
Oh my god! I moaned.
No! We had to go back! Nick was in there! I spun around and ran back
towards where the opening of the cave was. Eddie was right behind me.
Noah and Sam followed us and Noah shined the flashlight in front of us. I
kept running and screaming Nicks name.
My heart sank when I saw the wall in front of us. I stopped dead in my
tracks and I felt a tear trickle down my cheek.
No! I wailed.
Eddie stopped next to me. He sighed deeply. He ran forward and started

21
to pound on the wall.
Nicholas! He yelled desperately. He continued to pound on it.
Nicholas! Nicholas! He stopped pounding and put his hand on the wall
gently.
I walked forward and put my hand on the wall. My baby. I managed. I
slumped to the ground and started to sob.
We had to get back inside! I couldnt do this.
Eddie turned around and slumped back against the wall.
Noahs face saddened and he turned to Sam. I, I, just ruined their lives,
all of our lives. He whimpered. He ran towards the wall and started to
pound on it. Deonesus! Deonesus! Let us back in! Please! Deonesus! He
cried.
Sam grabbed his arm. Noah, stop before you hurt yourself. Its no use.
But, its my fault! I have to fix it! I have to fix it!
Sam patted him on the head. No, Noah this is my fault. He said, his
voice cracking. This is all my fault.
Eddie sighed. Its not important. We just have to get back inside. I need
to see Nicholas.
Noah gulped. I told you. It doesnt let you in when you want to. It will
come when you least expect it.
Sam shrugged. Well, lets go upstairs I guess. Its no use. Well have to
try later.
Are they kidding?
Noah nodded and started to walk upstairs. Sam followed him. Eddie got
up slowly and knelt down next to me. Mal? He asked, rubbing my shoulder.
I just shook my head. Eddie, we cant just leave him.
I, I, know, but what are we supposed to do?
I dont want to do anything.
Come on, lets at least go upstairs.
I shook my head. Im, Im not going anywhere.
He sighed. He stood up and scooped me up in his arms. I rested my head
on his chest and started to cry harder. He walked up the steps and then we
were back in the basement. Noah and Sam were waiting for us at the
bottom of the steps. Sam told us to be quiet, and Noahs eyes widened.
The robber guys still up there. I can hear him. He mouthed quietly.
Eddie sighed deeply. He pushed past them. Honestly, you two have
fought in wars yet you are too scared to even go upstairs and confront a little
robber.
They both nodded helplessly. Eddie rolled his eyes. Unbelievable. If
anything you should go up there and thank him because he was the one who

22
led us to Celestia in the first place.
Eddie carried me up the steps with Sam and Noah right behind us. When
he got to the top of the steps, he stopped dead in his tracks. Noah and Sam
peeked out from behind him. I looked up slowly to see what they were
looking at. My mouth dropped open. The robber was casually sitting at the
table drinking a glass of wine. He had his mask off. Eddie took a step
forward.
Ernest?
Uncle Ernie looked up at us. Hello children. He paused. Ernest? Well, I
havent been called that by a child in quite some time.
Sam stepped forward. But, but, youre the robber dude? He asked.
Uncle Ernie rolled his eyes. Well I had to get you kids to go down into the
wine cellar somehow! He said like it was obvious.
Noah peeked his head out from behind Eddie. What do you mean the
wine cellar? We arent allowed down there!
Uncle Ernie raised an eyebrow. Well, I thought, but didnt you? I had that
conversation with, okay, look. He paused.
Eddie cut him off. Ernest, are you saying that you knew that there was a
land in the wine cellar?
Uncle Ernie sighed and motioned towards the couch. You kids better sit
down. Its going to be a long night.
Eddie turned and I saw that the fort was still built in the middle of the
family room. In what seemed like a distant memory, I realized that we had
just been there a short while ago.
He walked over to the couch and set me down. Eddie sat down next to me
and put his arm around me. I slumped against him. Sam sat down in the
chair and Noah sat down on the couch next to me. Uncle Ernie sat across
from us. Well? He asked. What was it like?
Eddie raised an eyebrow. What?
He sighed. Celestia of course. I havent been there in so long. He added.
Sam looked at him like he was crazy. Youve been there? He asked.
Ernest nodded. Years ago. It must have been thousands of years in
Celestia. I stumbled upon it when I was storing some of the wine. I was
amazed at first. I thought that I would get lost so I decided to plant a grape
vine so that I would be able to find my way back. I met up with some
strange creatures. Apparently, I was part of a prophecy that would save the
land. We defeated the evil and then I became the king. Stayed there my
whole life until I was exploring one day and came across the grape vine and
well, here I am. He said holding his arms out.
Noahs mouth dropped open. That was you? The vine is still there! We

23
saw it!
No kidding! Well isnt that the darndest thing! He said slapping his leg
and laughing. So tell me, what was it like?
Well, we were in there for ten years!
His eyes widened. Ten years? What were you doing?
Well we saved them from the witch. Noah said slowly.
You saved them? Like a prophecy?
Noah nodded. Yeah, and then they made us the kings.
Ernest nodded. So the prophecy finally came true then. He said quietly.
Sam raised an eyebrow. You knew about the prophecy?
Ernests eyes darted around. Well, I, umm, may have been contacted
once by Deonesus
Noahs eyes widened. You know Deonesus!
Ernest nodded. Yes, he was around during my reign. After I had gone, I
was in the wine cellar one day when I came across a peculiar note by the
wall. I opened it and it was from him. He started.
But, but, but how did he write? Hes a leopard!
There was a sparkle in his eye. My boy, Deonesus can take many forms.
So cool!
Anyway, where was I? Ah, yes the prophecy. Well he told me about the
new prophecy and hoped that I could help find these children. Lo and behold,
it was my own family! Well, and Mallory of course, but she is practically
family.
I tried to force a small smile. Sam snorted. Practically doesnt even begin
to cover it.
Ernest raised an eyebrow. What?
Noah stood up and walked over to me. He grabbed my hand and showed
it to Ernest. Her and Eddie are married.
Ernest raised both of his eyebrows. Oh, oh really?
Noah nodded encouragingly. I could see Eddie nod slowly. Noah let go of
my hand. I looked at it, confused as to why I was still wearing it. Everything
else from my life had faded away, much to my dismay. I felt my necklace
around my neckwell, almost everything.
Ernest cleared his throat. So, tell me. How was ruling Celestia? Was it
difficult? In my day, it was a breeze. There were no real conflicts. Everything
was relatively stable.
This time, Eddie spoke up. It was amazing. Everything was so great. In
fact, I was supposed to host the Persarian Emperor a few hours ago.
Why, thats fantastic!
Sam cleared his throat. I have my own mountain.

24
 Ernest scrunched his eyebrows. Really? Where?
By the Uton Pass.
Noahs eyes lit up. Wait! Thats right by the Ernest Isles! He cried like he
had just made the connection.
Ernest nodded triumphantly and looked at Sam. You have a mountain, I
have the isles.
Sams mouth dropped open. Those are yours?
He nodded. Explored them myself.
Nah uh!
Just then, Noah turned to him. When are we going to be able to get back
in?
The expression on Ernests face turned sad. Well, my boy. That is a tough
question. I have not been back since. Why? Have you left anything there
that you need to get back?
Oh my god.
I could feel Eddie sigh. I picked my head up and turned to Ernest. I wiped
my tears off of my face. My, my child. I managed.
The color drained from his face. He turned to Eddie. Oh no, you didnt.
Eddie raised his eyebrows.
Ernest sighed. Why would you have a child if you knew that this might
happen? He looked at us concerned. When he saw what bad shape I was in,
he sighed. What was its name?
I sniffled. Nicholas. He, he was three. He had the biggest blue eyes. I
started to cry again. And I was supposed to take him to the ocean and hes
probably wondering where I am and I need to see him! I blubbered.
Eddie rubbed my shoulder. Ernest shook his head. I am terribly sorry my
dear. No one should have to go through what you are going through.
Eddie looked at him. Please sir. Is there anyway that we can get back in?
We must.
Ernest sighed. He shook his head. The only way I can think of is if you are
summoned again, but that would only happen if the land was in turmoil. This
could take years, or maybe never occur.
Never? This cant be right. I have to see him again. Why is this happening
to me?
I grabbed Eddies hand. He sighed and leaned his head against mine.
Hey, hey, its okay, Mal. Hes a strong kid. Remember?
I managed a nod.
Ernest cleared his throat. He obviously realized that this was a touchy
subject. Umm, so tell me about all of your adventures! I want to hear
everything. Start from when you left the wine cellar when I jumped through

25
the window.
Noah gladly told him everything. We chimed in every now and then. It
was super, super late but none of us were tired because it was still daytime
in Celestiawell not anymore. It was probably a few days later by now.
A few hours later, Ernest knew everything that had happened. He took it
all in very well. I was relieved that he understood everything. It gave me
hope that we would return, that we werent crazy, and that sweet Nicholas
would be waiting for me.
Ernest looked up at the clock and whistled. Well, 3:30. I have to say that
thats a new record for me. He said, trying to lighten the mood.
We all nodded aimlessly. Ernest stood up. Well children, it sounds like you
have had quite an adventure. Well talk more in the morning, or whenever
you children wake up. Ill tell Louise not to wake you.
He started to walk towards his room. Noah sat up abruptly. He turned to
Ernest. Uncle Ernie? He asked. Ernest turned around and raised his
eyebrows. Noah cleared his throat. Long live Celestia.
Ernest smiled. And long live the great Deonesus. He said as he turned
and walked into his room. He shut the door behind him.
Noahs mouth dropped open. He turned to us. He knows the saying!
Honestly, nothing mattered to me anymore.
Sam stood up. Well, Im going to bed and then Im going to wake up
tomorrow and realize that this was all a dream and that I am happily back in
the palace. He tried to convince himself, walking out of the room and up
the stairs. I could hear his door slam.
Then, Eddie stood up. Me too. He swallowed. Well figure this all out in
the morning. He assured, trying to remain positive as he kissed me on the
forehead and ruffled Noahs hair. He walked up the stairs slowly and I heard
his door shut.
I stared off into the distance. I knew Id never sleep again. There was no
use in trying.
Noah stood up and held out his hand. Come on Mal.
I shook my head.
He sighed. You need to sleep. Youll make yourself sick if you dont.
Too late. I mumbled, looking down. I stood up.
He reached up to pat my back. I forced a smile and started to walk up the
stairs. He walked into his room and I followed him. He turned around and
raised an eyebrow. What are you doing?
Well, I
He stopped me. You dont have to help me. Im not a little kid anymore.
I gave him a sympathetic smile. Yes you are.

26
 Well, I wasnt always. He said quietly as he got dressed in his pajamas.
I sighed. I know. None of us were.
He climbed into bed and pulled the covers on top of him. I sat down on
the edge of the bed. Need anything?
He looked up at me with his big eyes. Im really sorry Mal. This is all my
fault.
I forced a small smile. You didnt mean to. You didnt know where the
cave was leading. We dont blame you.
I couldnt help but be bitter towards him. But I couldnt bring myself to
hurt his feelings like that. It would kill him.
Noah started to whimper. Yes it is! Youll never get to see Nicholas again
because of me! I am a horrible person! He cried, putting his head
underneath the covers.
I started to say something but paused. I took a deep breath. No youre
not. Its okay, Noah.
No its not! He wailed. I miss him already!
He loved you a lot. I managed, my voice catching in my throat.
Noah poked his head out from underneath the covers. He loved you the
most.
Only because I was his mom. I said, looking down. God, it pained me to
talk about him. My heart ached for him.
Im sorry. Noah mumbled.
I rubbed his arm, blinking a few times. Its okay. Get some sleep. Well
talk about it in the morning. I said, standing up.
Good night.
I forced a smile. Good night.
I walked towards the door. I turned out the lights and shut the door. I
trudged to my room. When I got inside, I shut the door behind me and got
ready for bed. Tears fell down my cheeks as I slid into bed. I hugged my
pillow against my chest and started to cry.
The memories were starting to disappear from my head. They were
replaced with new memories. Memories of Napa, memories of high school,
memories of my terrible life. I hated Napa.
I needed to see him, my sweet baby, my Nicholas. I couldnt bear a life
without him. My pride and joy, ripped from my arms. How could I have been
so stupid! I hated myself.
When I finally looked at the clock again, it was nearly 4:30. My eyes
burned from crying. My head was spinning. Nicholass sobs filled my
thoughts. It was driving me mad. I couldnt believe this was happening.
I sat up in bed, completely desperate. I walked over to the door and crept

27
out in the hallway so that I wouldnt wake anyone up. I walked quietly
towards Eddies room. I put a hand on the doorknob, taking a shaky breath. I
pushed the door open quietly and walked inside, looking up.
To my surprise, he stood at the edge of the bed, his eyes puffy. He stared
back at me, misery filling his expression. I couldnt sleep. I was coming to
see if you were alright.
My lip quivered and I tiptoed into his embrace. He wrapped me into his
arms and I exhaled slowly. He let go of me after a minute and stared at me. I
could see the sadness and despair in his eyes. I swallowed and rubbed his
arms. He kissed me slowly. I put my forehead against his. He exhaled deeply.
I felt his heavy, despondent breathing.
I knew that he wanted to die. He was trying so hard to be strong but I
knew that he had never felt so heartbroken in his life. I knew this was only
the beginning and that this was how we were going to feel every day for the
rest of our lives. I squeezed my eyes shut tighter to stop the tears, but one
rolled down my cheek. I bit my lip and sniffed in.
Im so sorry. Eddie spoke softly, wiping the tear from my cheek.
I was dreading those words. Whenever he said he was sorry, that meant
that he had no idea how to fix the problem or make me feel better. I felt my
eyes start to burn. Then the tears came flowing. I choked out sobs as my
breathing quickened.
He hugged me tighter, rubbing my back. I love you. He soothed.
My sobs became louder. I couldnt handle it.
I love you. He repeated.
I love you. I finally managed to say, the taste of my tears salty on my
lips.
Then we were silent.
I forgot about the world. This room was the only thing that existed. Time
had stopped. No moving forward.
My head rose and fell as Eddie breathed. He rubbed my back gently with
one hand, while I tried to stop crying.
The only thing I could hear was the quiet rustling of the curtains as the
cool breeze swept into the room from the open window across from the bed.

We didnt speak a word to each other for hours. Not until the sunlight shined
through the window cracks and streaked across the floor.
I was lost in my thoughts as we lied there in his bed. Lost in Nicks eyes
staring back at me. Lost in the tear falling down his freckled cheek. Lost in
his hand reaching out to me.
I scrunched up my face as another tear escaped my eye. I sniffed in and

28
tried to stop my lip from quivering.
Eddie pushed the hair out of my face.
What are we supposed to do? I stammered.
I dont know.
But there has to be something
He cut me off. I dont know. He said sadly.
Another tear fell down my cheek. Eddie.
I dont know.
I picked my head up to look at him. He pulled me into another kiss. I
squeezed my eyes shut as tight as I could as I kissed him back.
I had to stop thinking. I had to. I would die if I didnt stop.
He pulled back and pushed my hair out of my face. Look at me.
I forced my eyes open. My eyes felt heavy and they burned from the
tears.
His expression saddened. Mal, Mallory, please, dont cry.
I miss him so much.
He rubbed my cheeks with his thumbs. I miss him too.
What do you think is going on there right now? I asked quietly, even
though I didnt want to know.
He sighed. I dont know. I bet its been a few days by now. The Emperor
has gone, completely annoyed. Rumors are probably surfacing. Im sure
everyones looking for us. Theyll give up in a week or so. Hopefully Orion
and Chatura will be able to take over and keep things running smoothly until
Nicholas is ready. He said slowly.
I swallowed slowly. And what about Nick?
He inhaled sharply. Its hard to say. Children dont understand loss. Itd
be hard to break it to him. There would be a lot of crying.
I could just picture his cute little face with tears streaming down his
cheeks, wondering where his mommy was. Oh my god, I couldnt do this.
How am I supposed to live here when I know about all of that? I will go
crazy. I cant do it. I cant. I shook my head quickly.
He stopped me, touching my face gently. I know.
I dont want to live here. I dont want this life. I hate this life. I
stammered.
Well get through it together, okay?
I managed a nod.
He stared at me for a moment, like he was studying every detail of my
face.
I leaned into his hand, shutting my eyes. Noah thinks this whole thing is
his fault.

29
 His fault?
Because he was the reason we had to go into the cave.
But he didnt know. Eddie reasoned. And we werent just going to leave
him in there! If anything, its Sams fault. If he had stayed in the stupid castle
like I told him to, we wouldnt even be here.
I knew he was right, but I couldnt bring myself to admit it. It was an
honest mistake.
No, it was typical Sam not listening to a word I say. Eddie said bitterly.
God, Im going to kill him.
I shook my head. No you arent. We need each other now more than
ever. We have to stick together.
He sighed deeply. Youre right. He paused. But that doesnt mean I
cant make him feel like crap for the rest of his life.
Eddie. I warned.
This time its justified. He decided.
I sighed. It was never easy with the two of them. They were always at
each others throats. I could not deal with this right now.
How about instead of plotting how youre going to kill your brother, you
can comfort your wife who is probably going to die before the age of 20
because shes never going to sleep again? I mocked, resting my head on his
chest.
Eddie forced a sad laugh. Well they can bury me right next to you.
I blinked a few times. Im serious. Every time I shut my eyes I see his
face. I cant do it. You have to do something.
Hmm, Eddie started, rolling me off of him. If I do recall, I promised that
I was all yours tonight. He smirked, leaning over and putting his forehead
against mine.
I looked at him. Oh, thats right.
And well, you know me. I never break my promise. He said quietly,
kissing me lightly.
He was so great. He really was. I bit my lip, a tear escaping from my eye.
He raised his eyebrows. Mallory, its rude to cry when a man is trying to
woo you. It really makes him self conscious.
A smile spread across my face. Sorry. I giggled.
He grinned, kissing me. Theres that laugh I know and love.
I put my arms around his neck, kissing him again. Did you just say youre
trying to woo me?
Depends, is it working?
I laughed.

30
I fished through my suitcase, the clothes totally foreign to me. I put on some
shorts and a t-shirt, feeling exposed. Id have to get used to it. Everything
was strange here now. I touched my necklace and looked down at my hand,
smiling. Honestly, he was the best. I dont know how he did it, but he always
knew what to say. I touched the intricate rings pattern gently.
Wait a minute.
I rushed out of the room and down the hall. I burst into Eddies room as he
was putting on his shirt.
He looked up at me. Whats wrong? He asked.
Are we still married?
He scrunched his eyebrows. I, umm, yeah? What kind of question is
that? He asked, pulling the shirt over his head.
Here, Eddie. I corrected. In Napa.
He paused. Oh, I guess I didnt think of that.
Is it even legal? I asked.
I mean, yeah its legal. Were both 18.
Oh. I smiled, taking a step towards him.
But we dont have the papers to prove it.
Oh. I said as the smile fell from my face.
He walked towards me. Not to mention the fact that mom would probably
have both of our heads on a plate if we did that. He added.
I looked down. I know.
So we just wont tell anyone. He smirked.
I hugged him. I like the way you think.
I heard a small cough behind me. I turned around, Eddies arms still
around me. Noah was standing in the doorway. He had a stack of papers in
his hands. If I set these by the wall in the wine cellar do you think that
theyll get to Celestia?
Eddie and I both raised our eyebrows. What are they?
Oh just my plans to improve Celestian relations. I figured that if I couldnt
be there that I would just tell someone else what to do. I have maps and
graphs and stuff. I was up all night doing them.
Eddie nodded. Well, thats pretty impressive, but I dont think that it
works that way.
Oh. Noah said sadly.
It was a good idea though. Eddie added.
I smiled at Noah sympathetically. He looked up at me. Im hungry.
I laughed. You know where the kitchen is.
But, Mal. Noah said holding his arms out.
Yes?

31
 He sighed. Im eight.
I nodded. Right, lets go get you some food.
We all walked out of the room and down the stairs together. The kitchen
tile was cold on my bare feet as I searched through the cabinets. Noah had
no problem pointing at what he wantedaka everything. I had to remind him
multiple times that his eight-year-old stomach was not that big. In the end, I
made scrambled eggs for everyone. It felt therapeutic, cooking. At least that
part didnt change.
Sam trotted down the stairs as we were all finishing up and slid onto a bar
stool, turning around.
Guys, I had the weirdest dream ever.
Noah finished his milk. By all means, please tell us every single detail,
even though we probably dont give a crap. He mocked.
Sam rolled his eyes. You know, for an eight-year-old, you sure are a dick.
I learned from the best. Noah retorted.
Sam paused, ignoring him. So get this. I was on my boatyou know,
nothing out of the ordinarysailing along, off to conquerI mean, trade
with the next island, when all of a sudden, this huge ass bird picked me right
up off deck and soared off towards the sun. Well, my hat fell off of course,
which was just completely unacceptable so I
Noah snorted.
Sam scowled at him. Shut it, life-ruiner!
Noahs eyes got wide and he looked to Eddie and I, tears welling up.
Eddie looked at Sam annoyed. Really?
Sam shrugged. Its true.
No, its not! Eddie cried like it was obvious. Noah wouldnt have been
in the cave if we didnt have to go looking for your stupid ass in the first
place!
Sam held out his arms annoyed. Oh my god, I said I was sorry!
Well, sorry isnt going to cut it this time. Eddie snapped. You
completely ruined everything.
I sighed. I knew Eddie wouldnt listen to me.
Yeah, youve made that pretty damn clear, thanks! Sam cried. You
dont think I feel like shit? Because I do! Every time I look at Mallory, I want
to kill myself! He gestured to me angrily.
I looked at him sadly.
You should feel like shit. You cant just go around doing whatever the hell
you want. It doesnt work that way. There are consequences. Eddie spat,
standing up.
I reached to pull him back down, but he pushed away from me.

32
 Sams eyes widened. Theres nothing I can do, Eddie! Trust me, Id do
anything to get back there. Absolutely anything. So quit it with the guilt trip. I
get it.
Eddie shook his head. I really dont think you do.
Sam stood up, walking back for the stairs.
I wasnt finished! Eddie cried after him.
Well, I am. He called back. I heard his door slam.
Eddie grumbled under his breath and sat back down.
I looked at him angrily.
What! He asked innocently.
You know what.
He sighed. Mal, it needed to be said.
No it didnt! I replied, starting to clean up the dishes.
Noah moved to the living room and started to scribble more notes. After
about an hour, he went upstairs to get more paper. Eddie and I made small
talk. I was still annoyed with him, but I couldnt let that get to me. We had to
stay together. We were all a family.
After a few minutes, I heard the pounding of footsteps down the stairs.
Noah came running in, breathing deeply. We turned around when we saw
him.
Eddie scrunched his eyebrows. Noah, whats wrong?
Sams gone.
I looked up at Eddie. Nice going.
He sighed. Unbelievable. Why does he keep doing this to me? He said
under his breath as he got up and started to walk up the stairs quickly.
Noah and I followed him. We ran down the hall. Sams door was closed.
Eddie ran forward and started to bang on it.
Sam! He yelled. Open up!
Nothing.
He continued to bang on it. Noah sighed. I told you. Hes gone! I tried
knocking on the door, but he just wouldnt answer me. I looked everywhere.
Eddie sighed deeply. No, no this is not good. He said as he pounded it
one more time, but then stopped. What am I going to tell mom?
Eddie. I said, crossing my arms. Eddie! I repeated, trying to get his
attention.
He stopped and whirled around to face me. What?
I sighed and I reached forward. I turned to doorknob. The door swung
open. I turned back to them and motioned for them to go in.
Noah nodded, sticking his nose in the air. Thank you. He said innocently
as he walked passed me.

33
 I raised an eyebrow at Eddie. He rolled his eyes. I forced a smile. Youre
an idiot. I managed.
Hey, Im a king. Doors are usually opened for me. He said as he started
to laugh too. Yeah, youre right. He corrected.
I heard Noah inside. Oh, no!
Both Eddies eyes and mine widened. We rushed into the room and our
mouths dropped open. The room was empty. There were only a few papers
and things on the desk but other than that, it looked clean.
He was gone. He was definitely gone. Eddie had set him over the edge.
Noah sat down on the bed. I sat down at the desk, trying to think where
he could have gone.
Eddie started to pace. Oh my god. Im dead.
I sighed. He couldnt have gone far.
Why the hell did he even leave in the first place! Why is he so stupid!
I looked at him angrily. Eddie. I snapped.
What! He cried innocently.
Maybe if you werent such a jerk to him, he wouldnt have left. Maybe if
you had just been nice to him like I told you to we wouldnt be in this
situation. We have to stay together.
Noah cleared his throat quietly. You were kind of a jerk He said
sheepishly.
Eddie shook his head annoyed. I was harsh, but only because I had to be.
He doesnt even realize the gravity of the situation.
I looked up at him. Trust me, he does. And you screaming at him doesnt
help at all.
He held out his arms. Well, Im just going to pretend everything is fine,
because its not!
Dont make him feel worse. Theres nothing that we can do about it now.
Well just have to deal with it. I said, still in shock that those words were
coming out of my mouth.
Eddie cursed under his breath. God, where did he go?
Noah looked around. Did he climb out of the window?
Eddie walked over to the window and opened it. He looked down. I dont
see how he could have gotten down, unless he jumped, which seems highly
illogical considering the fact that he would break his legs. He paused.
Although it is Sam, so if anyone could do it, it would probably be him. Eddie
sighed as he shut the window.
Youre overreacting. I said sympathetically. Im sure
No, Im not. Now, this whole thing is my fault.
Im sure well find him.

34
 Yeah, but what happens when we find him and he doesnt want to come
back with us? He questioned.
He walked over and sat down on the bed next to Noah.
Why wouldnt he want to come back? Im sure that if you just apologized,
he would. I said reassuringly.
He didnt leave because I yelled at him just then. He left because Ive
been yelling at him for 20 years! Eddie said, his voice cracking.
Just tell him that youre sorry. I paused. And I dont know, dont yell at
him anymore or something.
Thats not the way I work, Mallory. I have to be in charge. He wont listen
to me and I cant stand it. Eddie argued.
Oh my god. I felt like wed been having this conversation a lot lately.
I sighed deeply. Okay look. One: hes your brother. Hes obviously not
going to listen to you. And two: I know this is whole thing is like a culture
shock to us all, but were normal kids now. No one is in charge of anyone.
He swallowed. If we find him, Ill apologize for everything.
Good.
I think theres a car in Ernests garage. Lets go.
We got up and started to walk out the door, when all of a sudden Sam
walked through the door. We all stopped dead in our tracks.
Sam raised an eyebrow when he saw us. Whoa! Party in my room!
My mouth dropped open. Where were you?
Umm, in the bathroom He said confused, pointing behind himself.
My eyes widened and I looked down to Noah annoyed. Noah scrunched
his eyebrows. But, but none of your stuff is here! He cried.
Sam raised an eyebrow. He walked passed us and opened up the closet
door. He looked back at us. Umm, yeah its called a closet. You guys
should try it some time.
I sighed. Sam, we thought that you ran away.
Me? Why would I do that?
Noah scrunched his eyebrows again. But, but downstairs. And you and
Eddie, and, and you stormed off and then. Noah said confused pointing at
us and at him.
Why would I run away after that? Im used to him being like that.
I raised an eyebrow. So, youre not mad?
He scrunched his eyebrows. Umm, is this a trick question? He asked
confused.
Eddie had been silent since Sam came back. He stepped forward and
studied Sam for a second. He looked like he was going to hit him, and then I
was going to get really mad, but to my surprise, he pulled him into a hug. I

35
think Sam was just as surprised as Noah and I were. All of our eyes widened.
I heard Eddie say a muffled apology to Sam. Sam nodded. Eddie let go of him
and cleared his throat.
Well its a lovely day! Whos up for some swimming? Eddie asked.
Noah nodded. Ooo! Me! He said excited, running out of the room. Ill go
get my suit on!
Sam walked over to his closet. I walked towards the door and Eddie
followed me. I closed the door behind us and I turned to Eddie.
That was really cute.
He rolled his eyes. Whatever.
No, Im serious! Im sure that he appreciated it. I smiled.
Its Sam. He said like it was obvious.
So?
So he doesnt appreciate anything.
I sighed. Its not going to kill you to be nice to him.
It darn well just might He said under his breath as he walked back to
his room.
I rolled my eyes and walked to my room. I changed into my suit and went
downstairs. I walked out onto the patio. Eddie and Noah were in the pool and
Sam was sitting in a lawn chair taking a nap. I walked over to him and sat
down.
Why arent you swimming? I asked.
He sighed and sat up. God, Mal. You think youd know a person whos
trying to sleep when you see one.
Sorry. I do that a lot, dont I?
Yep.
I looked over at Eddie and Noah in the pool.
After a minute, I turned back to him. He was really worried about you
today.
Sam smirked. I know. I heard the whole thing.
My mouth dropped open. Why didnt you say something?
I was enjoying the moment! It may never happen again. Ill have you
know that that was the first time that hes hugged me in the whole 26 years
of my existence.
No way.
He nodded.
Wow, thats crazy.
I know.
So you didnt really mean all of those things that you said? I asked.
Oh, no! I was pissed but Ive just gotten used to it.

36
 I nodded. Wow. I laughed.
I saw Noah get out of the pool. He ran back from the edge. He looked at
Eddie. Im going to jump. You have to catch me.
Eddie nodded. Yes Nicho, I, I mean Noah. He corrected quickly. I will.
He said.
Noah studied him curiously. He cocked his head. Did you just call me
Nicholas?
Eddie started to stutter. I, umm, no.
Noah shrugged and then jumped into the pool. I put my hand over my
mouth, trying to stop myself from crying. I had done the same thing to Noah.
Now that he was young again, I wanted to baby him like I did Nick.
What? Sam asked.
I shook my head. Nothing. I said, sniffing in.
I really am sorry Mal.
Its, its fine, Sam. I stuttered.
No, its obviously not.
Ill be fine. Just give me a few days.
He sighed. If you say so. Wanna go for a swim?
I shook my head, my lip quivering. Nick loved water.
And were back. He sighed.
Sorry, its just that whenever I see water, I think of how much Nick would
have loved it. I cant imagine
Okay, well Mal, this isnt exactly helping me with the whole guilt thing.
Sorry. I mumbled.
He got up and got into the pool, leaving me alone thinking about Nick.
Ugh. This was awful. I curled up into a ball and exhaled slowly, shutting my
eyes. The sun was hot on my skin, but it felt good. It felt like home.
After another hour, I heard someone get out of the pool and walked
towards me. I peeked one eye open and saw it was Eddie. He grabbed a
towel and sat down on the chair across from me.
You know youre going to get a weird tan if you keep lying like that.
I shrugged.
Are you alright? He asked.
Does he think I will ever be alright?
I looked up at him. No I started.
He stopped me. Please dont answer that.
I forced a small smile. Im sorry.
Why are you apologizing? You have done nothing, absolutely nothing
wrong, at all.
No, I mean Im sorry that Im making this so hard for everyone.

37
 He reached over and grabbed my hand. I looked at him. He took a deep
breath. Mal, I know that youre sad
Right. Sad? Try depressed.
I stopped him. Sad doesnt even begin to cover it.
Mal, I know that your brain is going crazy right now but look, there is no
use just sitting here moping around. You have to try and deal with the
situation.
Oh so its wrong if Im sad that Im never going to see Nick? My bad.
I sat up and my eyes narrowed. Well, Im sorry if my moping around is
bothering you, but Im just a little upset that I will never get to see my child
again. For some reason, I cant be happy and forget like you guys. My bad. I
said, angrily.
He stood up and sat down next to me. Hey, hey, no thats not what I
meant. Dont get mad. He paused and looked at me. I havent forgotten
him. Trust me. He is very much in my head. I will never be able to forget him.
I cant.
I nodded slowly and started to cry again. I miss him so much. I said
wiping my eyes.
He sighed and looked over at me. Mal, listen to me. There is nothing you
can do that will fix this. Its out of our hands.
Dont remind me.
Thats the worst part. I mumbled.
Who knows? Maybe well go back today. He said, trying to cheer me up
it didnt work.
I shook my head. We should have never left. I managed.
He tried to force a small smile. You think that I wanted to? He asked
slowly.
If we were there right now, I would be sitting up in bed and Nick would
run in. I would be able to hear him humming from the other end of the
hallway. He would jump on the bed and we would talk, about nothing. He, he
would play with my necklace, and look at me with his big blue eyes, like
youre doing right now. I said, looking up at him.
He stopped me. Mal, you have got to stop. Youre completely freaking me
out.
Why? I asked quietly.
Nicholas was the best thing that ever happened to us even if we, okay,
well, I didnt know it at the time, but now that hes gone, I need him back.
But I cant do anything about it. The guilt is clawing at my chest and I, just, I

I looked up at him. Me too. I think I might die.

38
 No, no. Dont do that. He said putting his arm around me. Unless, you
want me to completely lose my mind.
I forced a small smile. He kissed me once and stood up. Come on. Lets
go swim.
I shook my head. I dont think so.
Mal, its no ocean, but it is a pretty amazing pool. He said, holding his
arms out and shrugging.
I cant.
He smirked. Sure you can.
No Eddie. Dont. I said annoyed, knowing what he was going to do.
He sighed. Im sorry. Youre right. Can I at least have a hug?
I forced a smile. I stood up and put my arms around his neck. I closed my
eyes, momentarily forgetting about everything. Eddie leaned in close to me.
Mal, this is for your own good.
Wait what?
My head shot up. What?
Eddie started to go closer to the edge. No! I looked at the pool and then at
him. No Eddie. Please. I cant. Nick loved water. I cried, squirming against
his grasp.
He smiled. Then lets enjoy it. He said, leaning backwards towards the
pool.
No! My eyes widened as we fell into the pool. My mind flashed to Nick.
Not to mention the fact that it was cold, and I was wet. He was so dead. Two
can play at this game.
I jumped up in the pool above the surface. Noah and Sam started to
laugh. Eddie was standing next to me. He looked down at me. And let it
begin. I wiped the water from my eyes.
Eddie, I, I, I cant do this. I said bursting into tears.
Well, it helped that I was already wet.
His eyes widened, and he walked forward. Oh Mal, Im sorry. I thought
that you would think that it was funny.
I looked up at him through my tears. Nick, Nick would have loved this.
He pulled me into a hug and rubbed my back. Im so sorry Mal. I, umm,
yeah he would have.
Great. Now I felt bad that he felt bad. Too late.
I nodded. He would have loved this too. I smirked, letting go of him and
pushing him under the water. I started to crack up. Noah and Sam laughed
too.
He came back up and his mouth dropped open. Oh, so now were
pretending to be sad?

39
 I smirked. No. But that helped a little.
He rolled his eyes.
We kept swimming and hanging out for the rest of the day. I did my best
to distract myself, but the dull pain in the back of my head served as a
constant reminder of everything I had lost.
That night, we talked with Ernest about all things Celestian and Noah
showed him his business plans. I kept periodically checking the wine cellar
just in case, even though I knew that there was nothing. That night, I slept in
Eddies room again.
In the middle of the night, I woke up to someone poking my arm. I forced
my eyes open, thinking it was Nick. I sighed deeply when I saw that it was
Noah. I blinked a few times. Whats wrong Noah?
He looked at me. I cant sleep Mal.
Im sorry. I said slowly.
He was silent for a second. Can I sleep here with you?
I forced a small smile. Sure.
He didnt get in the bed. I was confused. What?
Umm, Sam cant sleep either.
Okay... I said slowly.
So he sent me in to see if we both could come in here.
I tried to hide my smile. Of course.
Okay, Ill be right back. He said tiptoeing to the door. He had on his Hulk
pajamas. It was cute. He peeked his head out of the door and whispered
quietly to Sam. Then, I saw Sam follow him into our room. I looked at him
skeptically.
He nodded. It was Noahs idea.
No it wasnt! Noah whined.
Shh! I said. If Eddie wakes up you have to leave.
Sam shook his head. Nah, we can take him.
Noah crawled into bed next to me and Sam slid in next to him. I felt
squished. It was only a queen-sized bed.
Sam sighed deeply. Geez, you think that Ernest would get king-sized
beds for kings.
I rolled my eyes. Go to sleep.
We were silent for a few seconds. I felt my eyes close. Just then, I felt Sam
nudge Noah. Dude, havent you ever heard of socks? Your feet are freezing.
Sorry! Noah whispered.
And youre hogging all the blankets. He complained.
I felt Sam tug on the blankets. My eyes widened. Sam, no, stop! I
whispered urgently.

40
 It was too late.
I felt Eddies hand move on my stomach. Crap, he was awake. He picked
his head up next to me. What is going on? He asked, still half asleep.
I looked back at him. Nothing, go back to sleep.
Sam started to talk over me. Eddie, great, dude youre up. Would you
mind scootching over? We are kind of cramped over here on this end.
Eddie groaned. What on earth are you doing here?
Noah looked at him. We couldnt sleep.
Eddie sighed. So?
This environment is so strange to us. We just wanted something familiar
to surround ourselves with.
Sam leaned close to him. Nice one.
I rolled my eyes. Eddie groaned and pulled me closer to him. Fine Noah.
He said putting his head back down.
Thanks Eddie. He said quietly.
We were silent for a few seconds. Just then, Sam sighed. He didnt move
over, did he?
Nope. Noah said.
Great. Sam paused. Noah, you are the smallest one and yet you are
taking up the most room.
Sorry.
Okay, well, Im voting you off of Survivor Island.
I sighed. Sam, shut up and go to sleep.
Fine, we can work this out. Noah, spoon me like Eddie and Mal are
doing.
No! Noah cried quietly. Gross.
I rolled my eyes.
What? Sam asked.
I sighed. Go to sleep before Eddie wakes up again.
Just then, I heard Eddie next to me. And banishes you from this family.
Harsh. Sam said quietly as he rolled over.
I smiled. You know, for a little while there, everything felt like normal. I
liked that feeling. It made me feel better.
The next morning, we all got up super early, checked the basement, and
decided to walk around the vineyard to get our minds off of Celestia. It didnt
work. We came back, I checked the cellar, and then we went upstairs to pack
up our things. Mrs. Michaels was coming to pick us up in the morning.
I cant imagine leaving this place.
After talking to Ernest that night, we went to bed. None of us were too
eager to leave because we all knew that when we left Uncle Ernies house,

41
we were leaving Celestia too.
The next morning, we slept in. We moved our suitcases into the foyer and
went into the kitchen. We ate breakfast and sat down on the couches. I
checked the basement one last time, but I got nothing. A part of me died.
We waited for Mrs. Michaels to come and get us. Eddie was holding my
hand next to me on the couch, Noah was on the floor, and Sam was in the
chair.
Sam cleared his throat. Okay, mom cant know about this. Shell think
that were crazy. He said slowly.
We all nodded in agreement. That thought had been growing in my mind
for a little while now. Ever since Eddie said that his mom would kill us if we
got married. What were we supposed to do?
Eddie sighed. Yeah, weve got to act the same as when we left. No fancy
language. No allusions to Celestia. No nothing. He said, pointing at Noah.
Got it?
Whyd you point at me! Noah cried offended.
Sam snorted. Because youre the eight-year-old with the vocabulary of a
freaking college student. Youre going to get us caught. Youve got to act
dumb and innocent. He paused, smirking. Shouldnt be hard.
Noah scowled.
Eddie stopped them. If she asks, just say we played in the pool a lot.
Nothing else. We were never older. None of this is real. Get it out of your
system now.
I forced a small smile, turning to Eddie. Well then, in that case. I said as
I leaned in to kiss him. He smiled and kissed me.
I could hear Sam and Noah in the background. Geez! Get a room! Sam
said. Noah shielded his eyes.
Eddie and I started to laugh. Just then, we heard the door open. Mrs.
Michaels and Ernest were talking. They walked in and she turned to us.
Eddie immediately dropped my hand.
We all stood up. She held her arms out. Hey guys! How was it? Did you
guys have a good time? She asked.
We all nodded. There were a lot of yeahs and uh huhs. She gave each
one of us a hug. She knelt down when she got to Noah and looked at him.
Noah! How are you sweetie? I missed you. She said as she hugged him.
He hugged her back. Hi mom.
So did you guys play a lot of action figures?
He shrugged. Yeah.
Oh, well, Uncle Ernest told me that you guys were really good. I think
that that deserves a visit to the toy store. Ill even let you pick out the action

42
figure.
He nodded. I dont really want an action figure.
She scrunched her eyebrows. But, you love action figures. What else
would you want?
A sword! He said.
Eddie, Sam, and I looked at each other. Eddie cursed under his breath.
His mom stood up. She turned to us. A sword? She asked in disbelief.
Eddie cleared his throat. We read some books about knights and stuff. He
seemed to like them.
His mom nodded slowly. Okay, well its time to go. Youve got school
tomorrow. Say goodbye to Uncle Ernest. She said as she walked to the
foyer.
Sam walked towards him and shook his hand. Ernest nodded. Best of luck
son.
Sam nodded. Eddie came up to Ernest and shook his hand. Thanks
Ernest. He said.
Ernest forced a small smile. Any time.
Eddie nodded. I stepped forward and gave Ernest a hug. Thank you. For
everything. I said.
Ernest smiled. Im sorry dear that it had to end like this. He said quietly.
Ill keep my eye out for you.
I forced a smile. Ernest knelt down next to Noah. Noah held out a stack of
papers. Here. He said.
What are these?
Noah peeked around him and waited for his mom to shut the door behind
herself. My plans. I figured that you could take care of them for me.
I would be honored.
Noah smiled and hugged him. He leaned in close to his ear. Long live
Celestia. He whispered quietly.
And long live the great Deonesus. Ernest whispered.
Noah let go of him, and we walked towards the door. Mrs. Michaels had
loaded our suitcases into the trunk and was waiting in the car. The four of us
walked together towards the car. We all stopped and turned around back to
the house. Ernest nodded in the doorway. We all turned back around and
exhaled deeply.
We were all thinking the same thing: Goodbye Celestia, forever. Goodbye
Deonesus, Goodbye Nick. Wow, I couldnt do this. I could not just live in the
real world like this, knowing that I didnt belong here.
I reached up and grabbed my necklace. Okay Mal, be strong.
We all walked towards the car slowly. None of us wanted to leave. Eddie

43
opened up the car door for us. Sam slid across, Noah sat in the middle, and I
sat on the other side of him. When I passed Eddie, he forced a small smile.
I sat down in the car and Eddie closed the door. He climbed up front and
Mrs. Michaels started to drive away. We all turned around and looked out of
the rear windshield. The house was getting smaller and smaller in the
distance. I could hear Noah whimper quietly next to me. I looked down and
there was a tear running down his cheek. I rubbed it off. He looked up at
me. I forced a small, sympathetic smile. He leaned on me, and I put my arm
around him. Sam slipped his hand into mine and squeezed it.
We were going to get through this. Together. That was the only way.

The whole trip was filled with silence. Mrs. Michaels made small talk. Sam
almost let it slip a few times, but we quickly covered it up. She almost got it
out of us. Ill give her credit. Shes a smart lady. We couldnt really fool her.
Eddie kept looking at me through the side mirror. I would force a tiny smile,
but Mrs. Michaels would look at Eddie and he would immediately look up.
She knew that something was up.
By the time that we pulled into the driveway it was nearly 2:00not that
time meant anything to me anymore. We grabbed our bags from the trunk
and followed her inside.
She set down the keys on the kitchen table and turned around to us.
Here are your iPods, laptops, and phones. Im very proud that you guys
went a week without them. She said, motioning to the counter.
We all studied them for a second. Ha, I completely forgot about
technology. We all shrugged and walked past her. None of us picked up our
stuff.
She called after us. Did you guys hear me? I said that you could have
them back. She said again.
Nah, were good. Sam said.
She scrunched her eyebrows. Okay I guess. Ill call you down for dinner.
She said slowly.
We all nodded and went upstairs, going our separate ways. I walked in
mine and almost tripped over Noahs action figures. I carefully stepped
around them and looked at my room, feeling very strange. I unpacked my
stuff. I needed a change. I needed something to remind me of home.
I walked over to my closet and pulled out some sundresses and nicer
clothing. I put them to the front and put away my old clothes. I walked over
to my desk. Above it was a bulletin board. I tore off all of the pictures of hot
celebrities and crap. None of them really mattered now that I had Eddie. I
sat down at my desk and I started to get ready for school tomorrow. Me,

44
being a nerd, would look over the stuff. I know it sounds crazy, but I hadnt
seen it in ten years.
Finally, after a while, I could hear Mrs. Michaels call us down for dinner.
We shuffled out of our rooms and down the stairs. We silently sat around the
table. Mrs. Michaels studied us carefully.
What is wrong with you kids? You havent said ten words all day! She
asked confused.
We all looked at each other. Eddie cleared his throat. Umm, well, I guess
that we are all just really sad that spring break is over.
We all nodded. She raised an eyebrow. Geez, if you kids had such a good
time up there, then maybe I should drop you off there more often.
We all set down our silverware and stared at her. We all started talking at
the same time.
Really? That would be so sweet! Sam cried.
I would love to! The pool is awesome! I said, pretending to be excited.
Eddie can drive us! We can go up every Saturday! Noah added.
Eddie nodded quickly. Thats a great idea. I wouldnt mind!
She finally calmed us all down. Okay, okay fine. Ill see if Ernest is
available and if we can work something out.
We all looked at each other and started to nod. Maybe Celestia isnt gone
forever. This could work!
Mrs. Michaels sighed. Well, now that thats settled, lets eat. She said as
she started to serve us.
I looked at the spaghetti, forgetting what it tasted like. We didnt have
spaghetti in Celestia. She took Noahs plate from him.
More monkey brains Noah? She asked.
He shook his head. No, spaghetti is fine.
Oh. She replied surprised. She gave him back his plate.
Great, Noah is going to mess this up. Hes going to act like hes eighteen.
We ate our dinner quietly, every now and then talking about something
irrelevant for a few minutes. After we were done, we helped to clean up the
kitchen and headed back upstairs. I went back into my room and proceeded
to trip over the action figures again. I sighed deeply and bent over to pick
them up. I put them on my desk and started to clean up his signs and forts
that he made. After I cleaned that up, I grabbed the action figures and took
them to Noahs room.
When I walked inside, my mouth dropped open. Noah, what are you
doing?
He turned around with a trash bag in his hands. He was stuffing his action
figures into them. Oh, umm, just cleaning.

45
 But, but youre throwing away all of your action figures? You love action
figures!
Mal, Im too old to play with childish toys like these.
Noah, youre eight, not eighteen!
He sighed. I know, but I was eighteen once, and now I feel like I can
never go back after that. It just isnt the same. These toys dont have the
same effect.
I nodded slowly. So youre all of a sudden too old to play with action
figures, just like that. That doesnt look suspicious at all.
He looked at me sadly. I have to.
Well, what are you going to do now?
He sighed. I think that Im going to take up writing.
Writing? I asked as I raised an eyebrow.
Yeah, you know like stories and stuff.
What are you going to write about?
He paused for a second. I think that my first book is going to be about
our adventures in Celestia.
I nodded slowly. Okay.
He smiled. So, that means that Im probably going to need your help in
remembering stuff.
I forced a smile. Of course.
He nodded. Good. Where should I put these? He asked holding up the
bag full of action figures.
I looked around for a second and then opened up his closet. I grabbed the
bag from him and put it on the top shelf. I turned back around. His room
looked so empty. I dont think that Ive ever seen the carpet. He must have
noticed too.
Cool! Now I have so much room to put all of my notes and stuff! He
said excited as he walked over to his desk.
Now, in the past, he would have probably pulled out his chair and made it
into some huge fort like he usually did, but now for the first time ever, he
actually sat down in it. I was shocked. He looked around for a second
confused and then back at me.
Where do I keep paper and pencils?
I walked over next to him and I opened the top drawer. I shuffled through
some drawings until I found a whole stack of paper. I put it on top of the desk
and then I grabbed a pencil from the container on his desktop.
Here.
He smiled and began to write. What was weird was that it was actually
kind of good handwriting and there were some traces of his older self. He

46
picked his head up and tapped the pencil on his chin.
Chapter 1, we visit a vineyard and get robbed. He said as he wrote it
down.
Well technically, that did happen.
I smiled. I walked towards the doorframe and out the door. I decided to let
him write his masterpiece in peace. I walked across the hall and towards
Eddies room. His door was shut so I knocked.
Yeah? He said.
I took that as my cue and I pushed open the door. Eddie was sitting on his
bed, using his laptop. When he saw me, he moved over. I sat down next to
him. I looked to see what he was doing, but he quit out of the window
quickly. I scrunched my eyebrows.
What were you doing?
Oh, umm, nothing. I was just online.
I nodded slowly, skeptical.
I shrugged it off. So, I was just in Noahs room and you will never guess
what he was doing.
Eddie shut his laptop and looked at me. What?
He was throwing all of his action figures into a bag and asked me to put
them in his closet.
Eddies eyes widened. Seriously?
I nodded. He told me that he was taking up a new hobby.
Whats that?
Writing.
No, seriously. Eddie asked.
No Im serious. He is writing about our adventure in Celestia.
Eddie shook his head. Thats crazy.
I rolled my eyes. You know whats crazy? I asked as I reached over to his
desk and grabbed his math book. Is that they expect us to remember this
crap after ten years.
Eddie started to laugh. I know. I dont remember math. I just had
someone else do it for me.
Ah, one of the perks to being a king. I smiled.
Yes, there are quite a few.
I leaned over and rested my head on his shoulder. This is terrible.
He shrugged. At least mom said that we can go up there. Well talk to
Ernest about it. Im sure that hell know what to do. It will be fine. I promise.
He said, kissing the top of my head.
Just then, I heard a knock on the door. Both of our eyes widened. I picked
my head up and moved away from Eddie. He did the same. The person

47
knocked again, more urgently this time. It had to be his mom. Eddie told her
that she could come in. She walked in and when she saw me, I could
honestly say that she looked confused.
Oh, Mallory. What are you doing in here?
I started to stutter. I, umm, we, well you see I stammered looking up
at Eddie. He started to say something but I cut him off. I had a math
question. I said patting the book. Eddie looked at me like I was crazy.
His mom raised an eyebrow. A math question. You had a math question?
I nodded quickly.
She scrunched her eyebrows. But, its spring break.
I shrugged. I just didnt understand something.
She sighed. Heres what I dont understand. You two could barely stand
each other before we left and now youre sitting next to each other, and
talking, and holding doors, and looking at each other through the mirrors in
the car? I mean seriously.
Eddie swallowed. I, umm, we bonded over break.
His mom raised an eyebrow. Bonded? Really?
Mother! This is none of your business.
And since when do you call me mother? She asked.
I, umm, well
She cut him off. I dont know what happened this spring break, but now
everyones acting weird.
Eddie and I both looked at each other.
His mom got mad. And will someone please tell me why my sweet little
baby Noah has put away all of his action figures, wants spaghetti, and has
turned to writing for fun?
Okay, I was not liking where this was going. Eddie and I both stood up. I
walked forward. Mrs. Michaels, we just had a rough spring break. Without
the technology, something in us changed. We read a lot and Noah got new
ideas.
I felt kind of bad that I was lying.
She looked at me sympathetically. I, just, I, just thought that this trip
would teach you kids a lesson. I didnt want for it to change your whole
lifestyle.
Eddie stepped forward. Its okay. Well readjust here eventually. Dont
worry.
She nodded. I guess youre right.
Eddie forced a smile and his mom walked towards the door. Im going to
bed early tonight. Its been a long day. She said as her voice trailed down
the hall.

48
 Good night! He called after her. He shut the door and turned back to
me. Oh my god, you just lied to my mom. He said in disbelief.
Well, what was I supposed to say? Hey Mrs. Michaels, or should I say
mom! Your son and I are married. Your grandson is stuck in a different world
where were all ten years older than we are now. Yeah, that would have gone
over real well. I said sarcastically, crossing my arms.
He paused and then laughed. Yeah, probably not a good idea, but math?
I mean really?
What? It was the first thing that popped into my head.
You should have let me talk! Im good at sticky situations like that. Im a
freaking king!
I rolled my eyes. You were a freaking king.
He pointed at me and sat back down on his bed. You know its going to
take me some time to get used to that.
I laughed. I know.
Im trying.
Mmhmm. I said skeptically as I sat down next to him.
He argued with me about it for a few minutes until finally I just let it go.
We went off on a tangent and just talked about random stuff. It was nice, but
he seemed so dislocated. I found that strange. It was like he was trying not
to talk to me, but he wanted to. He would start to say something, but then
stop. It was weird. Hopefully, he would act normal soon.
Finally, I decided to go to bed. Noah was already asleep so I walked really
quietly back to my room. I shut the door quietly and got ready for bed. I slid
underneath the covers. My dreams haunted me.

I was back in the palace. It was morning. I was walking down the stairs to
see Eddie in his throne when I stopped dead in my tracks. I heard him talking
to a woman, but the voice sounded so familiar. I reached the bottom of the
stairs.
Eddie? I asked confused.
He turned around. Mallory, Im glad youre up. Look who I found! He
said happily.
I got the first real glimpse of who he was talking to. My heart sank. Lily.
I managed.
She was in a dress like mine. She had her arms crossed. She looked at
me with contempt. Watto.
I was shocked. What was she doing here? I started to stutter. Umm, Lily,
what are you doing
She cut me off. Watto, Eddie is my boyfriend.

49
 Excuse me? I cried dumbfounded.
She nodded. I dont know what you think youre doing.
But, but, but hes My voice trailed. I looked at Eddie. Eddie? I asked
desperately.
He scrunched his eyebrows. What Mallory?
Eddie, she thinks that youre
He cut me off. I am.
What? I asked confused.
I am dating Lily. He replied.
I shook my head. But, but hold on a second
I dont know what you were thinking Mallory, as if I would ever go for
you. He said like I was stupid.
I felt a tear fall down my cheek. But, but what about
Lily rolled her eyes. Watto, shut up. She said annoyed as she started to
kiss Eddie.
He kissed her back.
It was as if I wasnt even there. I started to scream.

I woke with a start. I started to look around frantically. I was back in my

room. My alarm was beeping. I exhaled deeply. Okay Mal, it was just a
dream. Eddie wouldnt do that to you. I couldnt get the image of him and
Lily kissing in front of me out of my head. It was horrible. I started to breathe
deeply. It was just a dream. Everything is okay now. Youre fine. Get ready for
school.
I stopped.
Lily.
Oh god.
She would be so angry. She would kill me. Both of us. How was Eddie
going to break it to her?
I shut off my alarm and got ready for school. I headed downstairs. Eddie
was already eating and Noah was writing next to him. I walked in and said
good morning to them. I grabbed some cereal and sat down next to Eddie.
He forced a small smile and then went back to watching CNN. I opened my
mouth to ask him about Lily. He looked at me.
Yes?
I shook my head. Nothing.
Okay. He smiled.
After we finished, we waited for Sam. He rushed down and grabbed an
apple. Eddie rolled his eyes and grabbed his keys. The three of them all
walked out into the garage and Eddie started the car. I paused in the

50
doorway. Eddie rolled down the window slowly.
Arent you coming?
I can just walk... I said, my voice trailing.
He looked around and scrunched his eyebrows. What are you talking
about? Get in.
I held my hands up in surrender, walking over and sitting down in the
front seat. As we were driving to drop Noah off, I looked out the window.
Truth was that I think that this was the first time that Eddie has actually let
me in his car. It was kind of pathetic. I didnt know what to believe anymore.
I was trying to keep with the status quo, but they obviously werent.
After we dropped Noah off, Eddie drove into the high school parking lot.
He parked the car and Sam got out leaving Eddie and I alone. I turned to him.
Ill see you at lunch?
He was looking around at the other kids in the parking lot. Umm, yeah,
sure.
Okay. I said as I leaned in to kiss him good-bye.
I almost fell over into his seat because instead of kissing me, he just
grabbed his backpack and got out of the car. I looked at him confused. I got
out of the car and went to class.
The whole morning, I felt great. Even though everyone still hated me, I felt
better than them, which I know sounds bitchy, but it was true. In between
classes I saw Eddie walking in the hallway so I waved at him, but I dont think
that he saw me.
Finally, it was time for lunch. I had been looking forward to it all morning. I
put my books away and headed off to the cafeteria to see Eddie. I grabbed
my lunch tray and started to walk towards his table. This is so exciting.
Finally, Im going to be accepted. I was walking towards the table, feeling
great about myself, when all of a sudden I looked up and stopped dead in my
tracks. My heart sank.
Eddie Michaels, my husbandor so I thoughtwas kissing Lily Bennett.
They were making out at the lunch table. Oh, my, god. Oh my god! What
was he doing? How could he? He wouldnt actually? There had to be
some kind of explanation.
I knew deep down that there wasnt.
I dropped my lunch tray and the food spilled all over the ground. Everyone
in the cafeteria was silent and stared up at me. Eddie stopped kissing Lily
and looked around. When he saw that everyone was looking at someone, he
turned. His eyes widened when he saw me and his face fell. Mine was white
as a sheet as he delivered the final blow to my heart. I had already lost
everything, and now I was losing him too.

51
 Lily raised an eyebrow and looked at me. Uh, what are you looking at
Watto? Did I say that you could look at me?
I bit my lip and didnt take my eyes off of Eddie. He stared at me and by
his expression, I could tell that what he was thinking: Holy crap.
I felt a tear trickle down the side of my cheek. I shook my head at him,
turned around, and ran out of the cafeteria. Everyone started to whisper
quietly. I wiped the tear off of my cheek and ran down the hallway. There
were a few kids, but they didnt really pay attention to me. No one does.
I had no one. No one cares about me. The only one who does is probably
thirty years old right now and doesnt remember me. My brain was shutting
down.
I havent felt this way since my parents died.
I ran to my locker and shoved my books inside, slamming it shut.
After a few seconds, I could hear someone calling my name behind me.
Tears rolled down my cheeks and I whirled around. How could you? I asked
with hatred in my eyes. I hate you. I hate you so much. I cried, choking
back a sob.
He ran up to me. Let me explain. He said out of breath, his cheeks red.
I shook my head. Theres nothing to explain. I saw everything.
She kissed me, Mal.
Well you didnt stop her!
People started to turn around and look at us. Eddie shifted uncomfortably.
He sighed deeply. Can we go somewhere more private? He asked. He
grabbed my arm and pulled me into a janitors closet.
We got inside and he shut the door.
I grabbed his arm and pushed him away, realization crossing my face. So
thats what this is all about? Youre scared of what other people will think of
you! Ill ruin your reputation if youre seen with me.
He shook his head. I, I, no. Its not like that!
Thats exactly what its about! I cried. When we were in Celestia, there
wasnt anyone around that you knew. No one to impress. But here, oh here,
youre some amazing celebrity whose reputation might be ruined if youre
seen around me. I said, my voice shaky.
He continued to shake his head. No Mal.
I cut him off. Dont you Mal me! You care so much what other people
think that you are willing to, to, to cheat on me! But at home, no at home,
its all good. Youre free to like me all you want. Well great, Eddie. Thats just
great. I couldnt believe the words were coming out of my mouth.
He sighed. You dont get it. People here dont know about us. They still
think that Im dating Lily, which I kind of am. He said slowly.

52
 So? Break up with her!
You know I cant do that. He said, his eyes sad.
I stared at him hatefully. Why not? Its easy. If you love me, which
obviously you dont anymore... I paused, pretending to think. Or I dont
even know if you did. Maybe it was fake the whole time. It was convenient
because I was the only other human there.
He grabbed my hand. No, Mallory, sweetie. I love you. I really do. He
pleaded.
I looked down at his hand. My eyes widened. I grabbed his hand by the
wrist and held it up. Do you? You arent wearing a wedding ring.
He sighed. Were eighteen. If people found out that we were married, or
if mom did, they would freak.
Oh my god. I was furious. My world was shattering around me and I
couldnt do anything to stop it.
So once again, its about what other people think. I spat.
Its not! I cant believe you right now. Youre overreacting. He said
annoyed.
I stared at him. Right, Im sorry. I hissed, anger seething from my veins.
This is all my fault because Im just supposed to be fine with you kissing
other girls when, umm, let me check were married for gods sake!
Were not married. It was a Celestian ceremony. It doesnt apply. He
replied. It doesnt exist out here in the real world. None of it does.
I leaned in close to his face. Tell that to Nick, or have you forgotten about
him too?
Leave him out of this. You know that I love him.
Do you Eddie? You said that to me too and look where we are.
He sighed. Hes different.
My eyes narrowed. Is he really?
Yeah, he is. He will always love me no matter what, but you, you toss me
aside after one little problem.
One little problem Eddie? This is a big problem!
A big enough problem for you to not love me anymore? He asked
quickly.
I stepped back from him. I, I, I dont know.
Im all youve got, Mallory. He reasoned.
I shook my head. No, you arent.
Your parents are dead. You have no one.
I cant believe that he just said that. The color drained from my face.
He started to shake his head and I knew he instantly regretted it. I didnt
mean that. I am so sorry. I didnt mean that.

53
 I nodded. Yes you did.
No, I swear. It just came out.
Yeah, just like kissing Lily. I snapped.
I dont know why I did that either.
I do. You kissed her because you are dating her here and we dont matter
so now you can just go back to your perfect little life. I said bitterly.
Mallory, you are my perfect little life.
I reached down to my left hand and slowly took my ring off. I handed him
the ring. Not anymore.
His mouth dropped open as he took it from me slowly. Mallory
I cut him off. No. Im done.
But, but what do you want me to do with this? I gave it to you. Its
yours.
I started to walk to the door. I whirled back around. Give it to Lily. You
seem to like her quite a bit. You shouldnt have a problem. Its quite
interchangeable according to you. I snapped, yanking open the door.
He paused. I, but where are you going?
To Nick.
You cant get in. It wont let you.
I dont care. Anythings better than this.
How are you going to get there? He questioned skeptically.
I paused. Did not think of that one. I, I, Ill take a bus to Ernests house.
Hell let me stay there with him. I decided.
Please, wait. He pleaded grabbing my arm.
I shook him off. You know what Eddie? I said as I turned around. Its
funny. For a little while there, I thought that you were actually a good guy,
but I guess that I was right all along. You just as bad as the rest of them.
No, Im not. Give me another chance.
I shouldnt have to! I said hatefully.
Come on. Let me show you. He begged.
Okay, go into the cafeteria right now and tell everyone that you love
me. I said, pointing down the hall.
He hesitated. A little too long.
I shook my head. Exactly. I said as I started to walk towards the school
doors. He started to follow me.
No Mallory. Wait.
I was done waiting. I whirled around. No. Dont follow me. Just, leave me
alone. I, I need some time. I said, holding my hands up.
He stopped. Mallory
I shook my head and ran out the door.

54
 Oh my god. I was so angry with him! My worst nightmare had come true.
How could I have been so stupid? Of course he would go back to Lily. We
were supposed to forget about Celestia. He was right. I didnt have anyone.
The only person who loved me was Nick, but he was in another world. I had
to go to Ernests house. That was my only shot. I ran through the parking lot
and down the street. I started to cry.

I ran the whole way home. I punched in the garage code. Thankfully, Mrs.
Michaels wasnt home. I ran through the kitchen and up to my room. I
grabbed a backpack stuffed it full of my things. I ran over to my nightstand
and opened the drawer. I pulled out all of the money that I had. I shoved it
into my purse.
I could feel my phone vibrate. I looked down. It was Eddie. I ignored the
call. I ran down the stairs and out of the house. I closed the garage door.
Eddie called me again. I ignored it. I stopped at the end of the driveway.
Okay, bus station. The closest one was about twenty minutes away. I
walked aimlessly down the side of the road. After what felt like an hour, I
could see the bus station. I made it inside and looked around for a ticket
window. I really didnt want to stand in line.
I walked down the lines until finally there was an empty one. It said that it
was closed but there was a man sitting in there so I figured that maybe he
would be nice and let me buy a ticket. I walked forward and when I made it
up to the ticket window, he looked up. I studied him for a second.
He looked middle-aged with no hair, but what caught me off guard was
that he had these discolorations down the side of his face. They looked like
cheetah spots. It was strange. I tried not to stare.
When he saw me, he opened up the window slowly. Im sorry Niss, but
Im closed.
I looked down at his nametag. I, umm, Im sorry Dan, but its really
urgent.
He sighed. Fine. Whats your destination?
Umm, Clearlake.
He raised an eyebrow. Clearlake? Arent there a lot of vineyards around
there?
I nodded. Yeah, Im visiting a relative. He has one.
He nodded slowly. Hey, shouldnt you be in school? Its one oclock.
Its complicated.
Hey, lifes complicated. Someone once told me that its the hardest thing
thatll well ever have to do. He told me to not lose faith and that everything
will work out in the end. So maybe thatll happen for you.

55
 I shrugged. I doubt it. You wouldnt believe the crap that Ive been
through.
He started to say something but was cut off. I could hear someone
behind me calling my name. I whirled around and saw Noah was running
towards me. He was still wearing his school clothes and had on a green
windbreaker. I scrunched my eyebrows.
Noah? What are you doing here? I asked.
He ran up to me and stopped in front of me. He was breathing deeply. I
want to go to Celestia too.
I shook my head. How did you get here?
He was about to answer me when I saw Sam run up behind him. He was
also out of breath. I stood up. Sam?
He nodded. You didnt actually think that we could let you go alone. He
smirked.
I forced a small smile. You guys are great, but I still dont understand how
you knew about where I was going.
Sam shrugged. Well
Just then, I could see someone run up behind him. I exhaled deeply and
my eyes narrowed. Eddie.
Look Mallory. Let me explain. He said exhaling deeply.
I shook my head. I told you not to follow me.
The four of us found Celestia in the first place so the four of us should go
back together. He reasoned.
Right, thats all?
Noah took my hand. Mal, we dont belong here. We have to go back.
Sam cleared his throat. If they let us in. He said quietly.
I shook my head, but then I looked down at Noah. He was staring up at
me. I sighed deeply. I looked back up at Eddie. Fine, but this doesnt
change anything. Im still not speaking to you.
Eddie nodded. Sam and Noah smiled. I turned around to Dan. I need four
tickets to Clearlake.
He smirked. I told you.
What? I asked confused.
Here are your tickets. He said quickly.
I paid him and he poked his head out of the window. Okay. Just go
through these doors, hang a right, and go down to the doors marked number
seven. He said as he pointed to the doors.
I thanked him and turned around to them. We started to walk and Noah
got really excited. He ran ahead of us. After we walked through the doors
and took a right, he turned to us.

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 Did you see that guys face?
I rolled my eyes. Noah, dont talk like that.
Sam nodded quickly. It was kind of creepy. I wonder what happened to
him.
Sam!
What? I was just curious.
Eddie cleared his throat. Sam, enough.
I kept walking until we got to the doors marked 7. There was no one
around. There were no signs or anything. Sam looked around.
Are you sure that Cheetahman gave us the right directions?
Sam! I said annoyed.
Noah shrugged. Well, lets see. He said as he walked forward. He
grabbed a hold of the doorknob and pushed to door open. A gust of wind
almost blew us over. What was that? We were inside!
We all looked into the doorway. All of our eyes widened and our mouths
dropped open. Instead of a bus station there was a beach and an ocean.
This is impossible. Wait a second. I knew that water. I put my hand over my
mouth. Noah turned around and smiled at us gleefully.
Were, were back! He exclaimed.
Sam started to stutter. No freaking way.
Eddie and I both looked at each other. I couldnt believe it. At the same
time, all four of us dropped our backpacks and ran inside. We ran along the
beach and the bus station was gone. I looked up to the sky.
Oh thank god, I was home.

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