The Pros and Cons of Walking the Knifes Edge

Chapter 5

Xavier's P.O.V

I wake with a start. How long was I asleep?

I scramble to my feet, hurrying to check on Matthew. I reach his room, quickly realizing when I see the door ajar that he isn't there. Worry rises in my chest before I can push it down to keep it hidden.

"Matthew?" I call. The house is empty, and my voice echoes. I check every room more than three times, hoping to find him, though I know I won't. He must be in the woods.

I can feel my heart slow as I come to the realization.

A quick glance toward the shattered clock said that it was nearly 2:30 in the afternoon. "I bet he hasn't eaten."

I set off to the fridge, only to notice that once again, it was almost empty. "Looks like cheese whiz, tomatoes, and mayo again," I chuckled to only myself. I made the best sandwich I could for my little brother with what we had, but it was still a sad excuse for a sandwich. I poured a glass of orange juice for him too. It was the last of the carton and didn't even fill the glass halfway, but I hoped it would do.

I went to the door and called for him. "Matthew!?"

I waited for a minute and called again, hoping he'd heard me. Sometimes he didn't......

I tidied the counter as I waited. I thought about setting out some more food too but decided against it. He probably wouldn't eat what was there anyway.

Maxi circled my feet as I absently paced the kitchen. Matthew always said I worried too much; I guess he's right. Again. I often caught myself doing this, whether I was home, at work, or in the streets. Ever since our parents, our real parents passed away, I always find myself worrying about him more and more. I realize I should probably feed Maxi as well... Don't need him dying on us. He's all we have left from our real parents. Maxi was a present for Matthew when he started kindergarten. He would go around the school bragging about his new puppy. He loved her so much, and he still does. 

I look out the window and see Matthew walking towards the house. There's someone with him.. I make another sandwich and put it out on the table so Matthews friend can also eat. As I glance back out the window, I notice that they aren't talking to each other. "I hope they didn't get into a fight or something," I say to Maxi. Maxi looks at me with his head sideways and his eyes down. "I believe he's thinking the same thing," I question my self. By this time they enter the house.