Zac was running, unconscious to the knowledge if anyone was walking down the halls. His mind was intent on one thing. Finding Jakob.
Where the hell is he? His mind screamed angrily as his eyes scanned over the area in sight. This school cannot be so damn big!
Continuing his futile attempt to find his friend, Zac glanced down at his watch before grimacing and taking off for the front of the school. Taylor was probably already there and worrying about him and Ike.
His mind started racing, Great, not only is Ike worrying him, but now I will be too. Shaking his head, he grumbled unintelligible curses and slammed through the front doors of the school and jogged down the steps.
The sight threw him off guard for a second, causing him to stop and stumble slightly. "Jakob!" He whispered in relief.
Zac hurried towards him, "Man, I was looking for you everywhere inside." He said panting slightly.
Jakob nodded grimly; "Doreen told me you got a private call today. She was worried that something might have happened, so she came and got me." His head tilted, "So, what happened? What's up?"
Grimacing, Zac relayed sketchy details. Keeping his own thoughts and fears at bay.
The sound of a car honking jerked Zac out of telling his story. "That's Tay, I got to go." He said quickly, as he started to walk away. But Jakob's hand on his arm stopped him.
"Zac, I know this isn't the time to tell you," He started calmly. "But aren't you forgetting someone?"
His eyes filled with confusion, "You'll tell Doreen I had to go right?" He asked slowly, his voice unsure.
Jakob nodded, "Yes. But I ran into Mechelle on her way to her class…" He trailed off.
Zac closed his eyes, "Oh God." He murmured regretfully. "I can't bring her home now." He explained with difficulty. "Ike's in the hospital, Tay and I are wrecks… my parents aren't going to be much better." He sighed loudly, "And I have no idea how the other kids are doing, or if anyone's watching them."
"I know, man." Jakob sympathized. "But she doesn't know what's going on, now does she?"
His head shook, "No." He stated softly. "She doesn't, and I'm letting her down."
"I'll talk to her, okay?" Jakob asked, "And try to explain, but no guarantee's."
Zac's head shook roughly again, "Not expecting any man. Thank you so much."
Jakob gave a weak smile when Taylor honked again with impatience.
Quickly he grasped his friend in a tight hug before running off.
Jumping into the van, Zac buckled his seatbelt on reflex. His eyes flickered onto his brother who was holding the steering wheel in a death grip.
When Taylor had the courage to look over at his younger brother, his eyes betrayed his fear. His lips quivered, but his hand put the car in gear and he started backing out of the drive.
"He'll be okay." Zac whispered hoarsely. He felt his eyes burn then fill with tears as his own lips started to tremble as well. He has to be! His mind shouted furiously. He has to.
"He has to." He murmured aloud.
Yet Taylor remained quiet as he concentrated as best as he could driving.
