Elián;
Elien is gone.
Not quiet… Not asleep… Not hiding.
But gone. Gone in a way that leaves a gaping hole in his stead.
The emptiness in my mind where he usually sits is a vicious ache. A note from reality I never asked for. The reality that somehow… in some sudden, terrifying way… he's gone.
GONE.
I'm standing beside the bed, staring at nothing, with my chest rising too fast, and my vision blurring around the edges.
Just as I'm about to spiral down a dark hole I can't help, a warm hand grabs my arm.
"Elián?" Zephan calls with his voice rough with sleep.
"What's wrong?" He questions, and I whip around so fast, the room tilts.
"He's gone." I croak, barely audible, and Zephan blinks, trying to wake up properly.
"Who's…" He begins, but I can no longer contain my panic.
"Elien!" I shout, with my voice cracking this time.
