𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄─𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐲 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐞¹ (𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠)

61. (don't) fear the reaper

I stood beside Finn and Clarke amongst an anxious crowd as we awaited word from Abby. News had gotten out about the impending Grounder war, instantly putting people on edge. I had decided that if Bellamy and Octavia weren't back by tonight, I was going looking for them, Grounder war or not.

The crowd quieted as Abby emerged from the Ark, followed by Jaha. I clenched my teeth at the sight of him. I was well aware that who were were up there was not necessarily who we are down here, but I couldn't shake my distaste for him.

Abby began to speak about the threat of the war, but that no decisions had been made yet. She was quickly interrupted by Jaha who claimed that "just to be safe" we needed to pack and prepare to flee. I ignored every word he said. There was no way I was leaving this camp without Bellamy and Octavia, nor my 47 friends in Mount Weather. I was staying here even if it mean facing the Grounders-again.

I was shaken from my thoughts as Clarke's voice rose above the crowd. I looked over at her as she took a step forward, "If we leave here, what happens to our people in Mount Weather?"

Jaha stared back at Clarke, surprised she had challenged him, "As your mother said, that is a very difficult decision to make." When Clarke didn't press any further, Jaha continued, "But the time has come, for each and every one of us to ask; is this how the story of our people ends?"

My blood was boiling as he continued. He acted like he knew what was best for everyone, but he didn't, he never has and it is unlikely he ever will.

Once Jaha was done his ramble, Abby spoke once again. "No decision has been made. Please report to your station supervisor and gather any emergency supplies."

Abby gave a final nod of her head to signal our dismissal. Everyone began to disperse, nervous mutters still floating around camp.

I rolled my eyes as I turned to Finn, "I'm not leaving without our friends."

Finn shook his head, "This is all my fault."

I looked at him with sad eyes, "Finn-"

"If I hadn't shot all those people we wouldn't be at war, I did this." His eyes were glossy as he looked at me, self hatred basically dripping from his every word.

I was at a loss for words, not knowing what to say to my brother at all. I wanted to tell him that he was wrong, that it wasn't all his fault, but iI couldn't form the words. Luckily, I didn't have to.

"Avery."

I spun around to see Bellamy standing behind me, a worried look on his face. I glared at him as I took a step closer, "Where the hell have you been?" I whispered, anger seeping through.

Bellamy shook his head slightly, dismissing my question, "I need you to come with me. Clarke's on her way too, she just went to get the med kit."

I glanced back at Finn who was watching us curiously, "What's going on? Where's Octavia?"

Bellamy grabbed my hand, "She's in the Drop Ship, now let's-"

"Is she okay?" I questioned, refusing to move until I had at least a bit of an idea of what was going on.

Sighing, Bellamy dropped my hand, "She's fine, will you please just come with me. She needs her best friend."

I looked back at Finn once again who gave me a small nod, "Go." he mouthed. I gave him a sad smile as I turned back to Bellamy, allowing him to lead the way. We met up with Clarke at the front gate before making our way back to the place we had once called home.

We were all silent as we made our way through the forest. The memory of mine and Bellamy's kiss resurfaced in my brain as I watched him march slightly ahead of us, turning around every few minutes to make sure we were okay. I vowed to myself right then and there that I was not going to bring it up unless he did.