Ice and Fire

A Month Later

Standing at the hospital's gate, dressed in casual loose clothes, Violet cheerfully held Alice's hand.

"I was finally free of that hospital!" Violet exclaimed, as she heaved a great sigh of relief, and looked up at the clear blue sky.

"Yes, and tomorrow we can go to school together," Alice said delightedly, thrilled to see Violet so lively and happy. All of a sudden, a shadow came over her face as she thought of Violet's scars. Everyone knew how much pain Violet felt.

Jackson and Cherry glanced at each other, and then at their daughter. Seeing the radiant smile return to Violet's face again, gave them each a great sense of joy and made them smile.

"Violet looks so happy!" Amy said relieved, as she held Derek's arm. She was thrilled that Violet was recovering from the tremendous blow she took and looking happy again.

"Yes, her bright smile must be a big relief for Jackson and Cherry," Derek added.

Standing behind everyone, Lawrence and Mike watched Violet intently.

"Violet, Violet!" Greg called abruptly, as he ran towards Violet with a small gift box in his hand.

Everyone, including Violet, turned and looked at Greg. Standing still with a face full of mingled surprise and joy, Violet watched Greg rush up to her.

you here?" asked Violet smiling readily.

a few deep breaths and explained,"When my dad told me you were going home from the hospital today, I wanted to come meet you here." Greg presented a box

it?" Gingerly taking the box, smiling at Greg, she blushed. As Violet opened the box she saw

the necklace. Her eyes were gleaming with enthusiasm as she thought, 'I

gift brought Violet

Greg," she sighed

welcome. I hope you like it and wear

but only saw him as a friend. He was also the son of her father's friend, which was the

back to the lively, optimistic girl I know. If not for the scars she must have, no one would know something terrible happened to her. The necklace represents my heart, so, now my heart is hers. I have no idea how deep my love for her runs, but, I know that at the

were back home. When Lily and Bill caught sight of Violet, they greeted

your noodles with soybean paste so much! You must cook them for me this afternoon!" Violet demanded while making a mischievous

recovered from that blow, Jackson, Cherry, and Lawrence must be elated too. Since Violet's injury, I have watched them. I feared the family might fall into misery. But, now Violet is smiling again,

to bed. Cherry went upstairs with Violet to sit with

the soft sound of his sister's door opening and then saw his mother come out

and went straight to Lawrence when she saw him.

why aren't you asleep?"

mind, Lawrence stated bluntly,"I have something to tell

nodded,"Your dad is in our room. Let's go