How To Save A Life

How to Save a Life (14 - Part One)

Emily

In the universe, the planets orbit the sun. A constant, never ending cycle - the sun is the middle of their world and all focus is wrapped around it.

AJ was my sun. It was like I was all of those little planets, just wanting to make sure that my sister was safe, healthy, and happy. I did things for her to make sure she'd be alright, so the cycle could continue and the world would keep spinning.

So when Olivia told me that she was awake and wanted to see me, it was like the universe was almost back to normal.

I was out the door in a second, brushing past a surprised Ryder. Footsteps followed, and I knew they were Oliver's by the slight bounce of them against the floor. He was slightly out of breath by the time I reached the elevator, jogging after me, and after jabbing the button impatiently, I gave up and ran for the stairs.

Oliver groaned. "Em, she's not going anywhere!"

Oliver was a part of my universe now. He was one of the planets circling the sun, wanting to make sure she was alright. Yet, as much as he wanted to be one of the planets, he couldn't understand exactly how strong the bond between AJ and I was, how strong the attraction between my planet and the sun was. I glanced back at him, my lips quirking into a smile when I saw how exasperated he looked as he waited for the elevator.

The doors opened. He grabbed my wrist and tugged me inside.

"This thing takes forever."

"The doors just closed. Would you calm down?"

"I'm nervous" I admitted, looking up at him as he tugged me by my wrist so I stumbled into his chest. Unfazed, he sent me a quick crooked smile before settling his chin on top of my head.

"Why?"

I felt a flicker of annoyance. Not at Oliver, but just the fact that I had to explain why I was upset to anyone. I shouldn't have to be upset. I should be at AJ's dance competition, rather than a hospital.

"I don't know," I said, sarcasm ringing through my tone. "It might just be the fact that my sister could lose her leg today."

Oliver nuzzled his face into my hair, letting out a sigh. "Sorry," he said quietly. "That was a stupid question."

"It was," I nodded, and he tucked my forehead into the crook of his neck. Though the position was comfortable, and usually soothed me, the thoughts ran through my head with the sound of my heartbeat.

Should have taken better care of her...your fault again

"Quit it," Oliver said quietly, and I looked up at him. He frowned at me, blue eyes darkening with sadness. "What?" I asked.

"You're blaming yourself again."

"No, I'm not."

He leaned down and pressed his lips against my forehead. "You can't lie to me," he said quietly. "Your eyes give you away."

"I hate that," I grumbled, and he smiled. "Not even the colour. You squint when you're trying not to cry."

I shook my head. "No I don't."

He smiled at me, softly brushing his hand through my hair. "If I could keep you from squinting," he said. "I would."

I felt the corners of my mouth turn up. "Haven't heard that one before."

He smiled a crooked grin. "You didn't squint. I guess you're telling the truth."

I rolled my eyes, but the doors opened and the rush of nerves came flooding back. Oliver's grip around me tensed, and he held me close for a moment more, pressing his lips to mine and then my forehead. "She'll be ok," he said. I closed my eyes, and he murmured against my ear. "Do you trust me?"