The Revenge of the Maze (Book 2)

Chapter 1

Averi-

So we're back in school. Christmas was like every other Christmas but I actually felt a reason to celebrate. I'm a Christian now. Of course, it was very hard to explain to my parents and the other kids how I got the scars on my arm and face. The one on my arm was easily hidden but the one across my face was another story. Cade and I agreed that the Maze was a secret kept between us. No one else should know about it. Besides who would believe me?

"Boo!"

"Ah, Cade," I shouted. My boyfriend just let out a light laugh.

"Sorry. I couldn't help it."

"Ya, I'm sure." I turned back to my homework. My math teacher is really nice but he gives out way too much homework.

"Struggling with your math?" Cade pulled up a chair and had a seat next to me.

I sighed. "What do you think?" Grabbing my homework he looked it over and grinned.

"I'm no genius but my older brother taught me a trick for this." He shuffled through the mess on my wooden desk. He healed up a scrap of paper. Then I handed him a stubby pencil. Leaning over his broad shoulders I saw him sketch a few different shapes. Beside the shapes were small poems or rhymes.

"Wow," I exclaimed reading what he wrote. "Why have I never thought of that?"

"My brother's super smart." His smile faltered.

I know sometimes he wishes he was as smart as James but he doesn't need to change. He's the best artist I know. His brother can't compete with that.

"Cade thank you. Let's stop. You can help me with my drawing. Please," I begged though I know I don't need to. He nodded and brightened instantly. I thank God every day that everything in and about the Maze turned out fine. Cade's safe and that's all that matters.

"Cade, would you like to stay for dinner?" my mom asked.

"I'm making Alfredo and garlic bread." She flashed him a motherly smile. The spoon in her hand dripped sauce on the floor and she hurried back to the kitchen before he answered.

"No Miss. Johnson. I can't stay. My mom expects my back soon."

My dad then looked up from the news paper he was reading.

"Cade feel free to come over anytime. We'd love to have you over. Your family too."

Cade nodded, "I'll be sure to tell them." I walked him to the door and when my parents weren't watching he kissed me.

We've always been super close but now he's my best friend and boyfriend. I give a small wave and blush. I love Cade. I said a silent thank you to God for keeping him safe.

A few days later

I love the way the birds sing in the morning. Cade and I walked to school through the frigid January air. My dad always offered to drive us but we both like to walk.

"What do you think will happen today," I asked breaking the silence.

Cade looked up. "Hu?" he asked. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention.

Rolling my eyes I answer with a never mind.

"Sorry Averi but I was... I don't know... Uh... We kneed to talk." He looked me in the eye. I scrunched up my brow.

"Yes?"

"You remember the time I was hacked into?" He stared at his feet.

"Ya," I answered coolly. I would rather not remember how I handled that situation.