Suddenly, a whistling noise pierced the air. My eyes grew wide as Anya and I exchanged a worried glance. It was as if I could feel the speed at which she moved through the water. I knew she was swimming faster than ever. But sometimes, I just couldn’t help but chuckle, or explode in frustration, at the thoughts that ran through her mind. I kept most of what I heard from her to myself. She often broadcasted her thoughts when she was overly emotional. Lucky for me, she didn’t really know how to control it or use it yet. Since she had been bit by Sirrush the dragon, she had gained the gift of Fairy-Speak. I listened hard and tried to hone in on Ruby’s thoughts. I shook myself back to the present moment and watched Ruby swim into the dark cavern. You will lose her, if you continue down this path with a jealous heart.' It will chew you from the inside out and disintegrate the thread that binds you to her. During my last trip home she said to me, ' Brennan, You must step away from your bitterness. If Ruby is to be mine forever one day, I could not let my anger and jealousy come between our friendship. Frustration filled me once again, as I realized, I would have to do just that. I thought I could sit by and watch her be with him. What was it about him that she loved so much? Surely, she could see past his looks, and into the shallow soul of that dumb jock? And, why did it bother me so much? She had dated other boys. I should have been with her on those last days of swim lessons. Trying to refrain from becoming too anxious, I watched as Ruby held her own. My sister, Anya, stood by me, clutching my hand, silently watching. My actions must not disappoint my father. I am the heir to the throne of the Earthen Royal Court. The King and Queen of the Water Court must not see me squirm. I blew out a deep breath, trying to collect myself and maintain my calm. I was so smug and arrogant about it, too.

It was ludicrous for me to think she could. What if I was wrong? What if she did fail? Even with her gifts, there was no way Ruby could outswim a Mermaid. She would never get over the guilt if she failed. What have we gotten her into? She wasn’t ready for this. I stood on the edge of the platform and held my breath.

Forever Kansas by Julie Cassar