Fire and Ice

Max

I paced the floors of my room, anxiously awaiting my brother’s arrival with the news that we could come out of hiding. The time ticked by slowly, I was growing impatient and nervous. Bad thoughts swarmed through my head, what if he got caught? I thought to myself. No, Denver is very smart, he’ll be okay. I pushed the thoughts away and sat down in front of my vanity, braiding my hair. My hair had grown much longer over the two years. My eyes, which were lined with eyeliner and mascara, had become bigger and much more vibrant. It was hard to tell that Denver and I were related, much less twins. I stood back up and began pacing again. I then heard the sound of my brother rushing in through the door, it slamming closed behind him. I ran downstairs to greet him and hear the news I was hoping for.

Denver sat in front of the door gasping for air. His bright red hair was dripping with sweat, and his hands were covered in scorch marks. He had been using his powers. “Any news brother?” I asked, sliding down beside him, resting my hand on his. “No news, but I was being chased by some of them. I managed to escape fortunately.” He leaned his head back and closed his eyes, listening to the sound of the flames flickering in the fire place. “That noise, it’s music to my ears.” He swayed his head and moved his fingers, like he was conducting the flames in a symphony. I closed my eyes too, trying to relax for once. The sound of the fire rested my worries and put me in a calm mood, until Denver caught the couch on fire. “Denver!” I yelled, springing up and running towards the burning sofa. “How could you be so careless? You know our powers are dangerous!” I rushed forward and turned my palms towards the couch, extinguishing the flames. Denver sat there shaking his head, muttering something. “It’s getting worse, my powers I mean.” I rolled my eyes, “You’re fine Denver, you’re just an idiot.” He shook his head and stood up, “I’m going to bed, I’m pretty tired. It’s been a long day.” Before I could object he walked into his room and slammed the door shut, leaving me alone in the living room.