Almost Broken (Young Justice)

Chapter 4-Bad To Worse

Thursday, December 31, 11:55 pm 2 years later

The next year would be here in a few short minutes. As I waited for the clock to strike twelve, I reflected on what happened the past couple years.

After that incident at school, Nona made me switch schools. But I only went for three months, before I came back to my old school. It was worse than my school. At least three kids got suspended in the first week of school, and the second week, one got expelled.

Nona switched me back, thank goodness, and nothing like that happened again. But, one of the worst things happened in my next year of school there.

The year I went back, it was just before semester break, one of my best friends moved. It had to be the one I cared about most, didn't it? I remember it like it happened yesterday...

*Flashback

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Today is the last day before semester break. I'm not sure if I'm even glad it's over, or if I'm not. I don't get to hang out with my best buds anymore, so it's not like I have to say goodbye to them.

I walked down the hall to go to Study Hall, my next class. On my way there, Nathan was passing me. He looked really upset about something.

I wanted to stop him and ask him what was wrong, but I couldn't. If I interact with him, we both get in trouble.

My thoughts were interrupted when a piece of paper was placed in my hand. I saw Nathan's hand slip away from mine, and he continued to walk the other way.

I looked down at the paper, and I saw it was an envelope with my name on it.

When I got to Study Hall, I ripped open the envelope to find a letter addressed to me, from Nathan. It read:

Dear Caroline,

We can't interact with each other, which means I can't tell you this in person; so I wrote you a letter. Caroline, I'm moving. I'm switching schools, and won't be able to see you after today. I'm moving to Central City. But Caroline, don't give in. Don't give into more depression. I know you, which means I know you're hiding your real feelings behind a fake smile that is strained. I know you're still really upset about your dad, but don't get more upset that I'm leaving. Caroline, I want you to promise me that you will STAY STRONG.

You are a strong person, Caroline, but I think Nona is tearing you down. There is something weird and suspicious about her. Watch your back when you're around her. When I get the chance, I will try to visit you without Nona knowing. It's going to be hard, but I'll find a way.

Caroline, you have been the best friend in the world. I hope I was as great a friend to you as you were to me. You'll always be my little sister, and I love you.

Love, Nathan

My eyes were far from dry when I finished reading the letter. I quickly dug into my backpack to look for some paper and a pencil. When I found some, I started to write:

Dear Nathan,

Thank you for your letter. I'm very sad that you're moving. But Nathan, I promise you I won't give in. I also promise to watch my back. You have been the brother I've always wanted. You say I was a great friend, but you were an even greater friend than I was. When I can drive, I'm driving to Central City to see you.

You tell me I'm a strong person, but I don't think I could survive without you. I'll try, for you, but remember that you will always have a spot in my heart. You've been the best friend, and the best brother, and I love you for that too.