Chapter Text
Sammy was walking me home from school, like always. But then I spotted an alley cat. It looked lonely…and hungry. I could probably convince him to let us keep it…right? I go to tug on Sammy's sleeve.
“Sammy, look.” I said, as I point to the cat. He just scoffed.
“That's unsanitary, Ember… if you want a cat so bad, we can just just adopt one from the shelter.” Sammy responded. I kind of just pouted at him.
“But I want that cat!” I whined.
“You're such a spoiled brat.” He complained, with a sigh. “But if you want it so bad, I guess we can keep it.” He then added. I of course perked up at this, hugging him.
“You're the best!” I exclaimed, as I hugged him. I walked over to the cat, letting it sniff my hand. Maybe I could name it Onyx! That cat—Onyx (Maybe)—nuzzles against my hand and I pet it. As I do, I see a shadow behind me. I assume it's Sammy, but—
Suddenly I felt a sharp pain in my throat, and I coughed up blood. I tried to scream, but nothing came out. But I could hear Sammy scream my name, before getting suddenly silenced. Whoever it is probably isn't alone then. I'd use an explosion, but… I don't have enough sweat right now for that. It'd have to be small, definitely not enough to get these guys away. God, please don't let me die here.
There was suddenly a sharp pain in my head area. I think they broke my skull. Sammy was able to get whoever covered his mouth off. Of course he did, he's amazing like that. He grabbed me, pulling me into a hug. He seemed like he was about to cry, which is weird, because I had never known my brother to cry.
“Ember! Damnit, don't you dare die on me, you idiot!” I could hear him yell. His voice is kind of fuzzy to me. God, my head is spinning… I tried to say something, but no words came out. All I could do was choke up more blood. I just hugged Sammy back, laying my head on his shoulder.
…
I never even got to tell him how much I loved him. How much I admired him. Maybe he knew already. It's not like I ever tried to hide it. But still, I wish I could've done more in that moment. I wish I could've survived at least a little longer.