The Paths That Tie (Clementine x Violet)

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(Warning: Long author's note ahead.)

Just a bit of advice if its been a while since reading previous chapters: Take a look at chapter's 7 and 17. They should help in remembering what this first scene is referencing.

Also, this chapter deals with some heavier topics such as depression, suicide, and anxiety (Through the form of a panic attack). For the fact I'm having to advise of this comparatively to other chapters I've written previously, that should show how prevalent these themes are in this chapter.

If you are triggered by any of these three topics, I would advice that you read this chapter at your own risk. You are more than welcome to DM me, and I can give you the important points of the chapter.

During these hard times, I understand that reading about heavy topics might not be what is needed. However, I feel the need to tell the story I want to tell, and to bring that deeper story to you all to read and reflect on.

This story, while on the surface is a gay fanfiction, is also about the very real struggles that young adults go through within a reality that isn't so realistic. I incorporated many of my own experiences into it, and some of the struggles shown within this chapter are also things I've had to experience. (I will probably go more into this once the story has wrapped up, and I post some sort of a final thoughts chapter.)

It's important to bring these things into light, as it can serve as a reminder to those who deal with some of these issues such as anxiety or depression, that you are valid in feeling those things. You are not alone, and there are many resources out there if you need them. Below this chapter, I will be posting several links to depression, anxiety, and suicide resources if you are ever in a situation where you need them.

Once again, you are not alone.

Everything you're going through, you can overpower.

Take care of yourselves everyone, wash your hands, and I hope you enjoy the chapter! :)

-Dino

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"Clementine?"

"Clementine..."

"Clementine!"

The last shout caused Clementine's eyes to shoot open wide, looking around frantically for whoever was calling to her.

From what she could see, Clementine was most likely asleep on a living room couch, as a blanket was on her.

However, this wasn't the couch she was used to. This was her parent's couch in her old house.

"Wise men say, only fools rush in"

The familiar sound of her mother's track slowly began to calm her down. However, this was different. Usually, her parents would be dancing around the living room, with the smell of blueberry muffins filling the air.

There were no muffins.

There were no parents.

It was only Clementine, in her child body, alone in a rather darker version of her childhood home than she usually remembered.

"But I can't help, falling in love with you"

Something was wrong. It was too cold in the room where it was usually filled with laughter and warmth. What happened to her parents?