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All of the Gladers stood around a large bonfire that cracked and roared above the sounds of the social boys. They all sat around on make-shift benches or on the soft grass. Many of them were eating whatever Frypan was stirring up for them.
Newt relaxed beside me, taking a sip of the brown liquid in his hand. He rested a hand on the back of his head, leaning against the bench we sat in front of. I raised my knees up to my chest, wrapping my arms around them.
I watched the fire from a safe distance, observing the small flakes floating into the sky. I insisted that we sat as far away from the bonfire as possible. Ever since my reoccurring dreams, I've developed an unhealthy relationship with fire. It could just be a common fear I discovered.
Taking another sip, Newt turned his head around to whisper something to Alby before switching his attention to the laughing group of Gladers playing with the fire. Alby, who was sitting on the bench behind us, patted my shoulder.
"What do you think, Greenie? A welcome party just for you." Alby beamed, stretching his arms out to show off the celebration he put together.
I leaned my head back to look at him, "It's incredible. I didn't know it was still possible to be this happy."
Newt frowned at my comment, tilting his head down. He quietly swirled the drink around in the jar, waiting for Alby to respond. The chattering Gladers quickly turned into soothing background noise.
"I like to think it's always possible to feel some sort of happiness. Even if it's just for a second." The leader played a soft smile on his lips, resting one elbow on his knee.
I hummed, glancing over at the jar in Newt's hand. It carried an oddly colored liquid. Its murky color gave me an unpleasant feeling. It didn't help that there were small particles floating around in it.
I pointed at the drink, "What is that?"
Newt raised the jar, handing it to me, "Gally's special drink. No one really knows what's in it, but it makes you feel good." He and Alby shared goofy smiles, bumping elbows.
"Sounds like a hangover waiting to happen. Aren't we all underage-"
"Shh," Alby placed a finger over my lips, "Don't be like that. Try it."
I scrunched my nose at the thought of that substance swirling in my mouth. I couldn't tell if it was going to feel gooey or thick. I peered up at Alby, checking to see if he was being serious.
"Go on, Nessie. It won't hurt to take a small sip." Newt urged on.
I blinked away all my thoughts and chugged whatever was left in the jar. I felt the warm liquid slide down my throat, leaving a burning sensation itch inside my mouth. I coughed, trying to get the aftertaste out.
"That's disgusting!" I choked out, spitting out whatever was left. Alby burst into laughter, patting my back as I got on all fours, spitting on the dirt. Newt shook his head before looking away from me.
