I got better. I still couldn't hear. I started spending almost all my time at the academy. I practiced my gymnastics routines to perfection, then made new ones. I learned everything I could for dance. I rarely communicated with anyone.

I didn't show up at the tavern anymore. Kae sent me a letter telling me how it was falling apart without me. I put the letter in my desk. I think.

Zoey and Toska hang out with me sometimes. I acknowledged them but didn't really say anything else. We eat together and work out together. I drew them a picture. I think they liked it.

Sometimes I came home to see Kae. I only stayed for a day at most. We hung out. We didn't talk much. It was okay.

I missed her.

And I still do.