The ash had fallen over me, coating me in grey. I watched as it ran down my skin, mixing with the blood from my falls and the water from the shower, and I wondered what exactly the ash used to be.

Was it the furniture of the bar?

Was it the infrastructure of the towers?

Was it the uniforms Deno had us wear?

Was it the flesh and bone and skin of my best friend?  Of my coworkers, who were a second family?

I retched until my stomach was empty, washing its contents down the drain. Everything smelled sour and burnt.

I wondered if the fires would ever be put out.

I wondered if the view, so unique and beautiful, changed into something sinister-- something ugly-- when it was the last thing you saw.

//

 Sorry for my lack of sticking to a schedule, this last month has been a whirlwind for me. I had my ACT testing, more than a few familial crises, and I just found out that I'm going to be a big sister, which is possibly the best news I've ever received.

But here's the update (actually, updates; there were three) and I hope you enjoy. We're almost at the end, actually. Two chapters and the epilogue to go. Please, please, tell me what you're thinking, reading comments is honestly so uplifting and inspiring.

Okay, love you all!

jadexx