Patton's perspective

*Flashback*

"Shh, shh, shh. It's okay. I'm here. It's not your fault. I promise. Just match my breathing. It's okay. It's fine." I whispered into Virgil's ear, rocking him to calm him down. It's been 5 years since I made my promise. I've kept it. My promise has led me to have some silent cries...at night....with no one to help me...but, I'm fine! Sure, I might have signs of depression, but I don't have it! I'm sure I'm fine! But, maybe therapy could help...but how would I get there? Maybe next year when I have a car...but I can't leave Virgil alone...and he'll get curious. What if...hey that could work!

"Virgil, I have an idea. It's crazy, but hear me out. Okay, this is what we're gonna do..."

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It's been a year since I told Virgil my plan to run away once I got a car. He came with me to my driver's test. I wasn't comfortable leaving him at home with my dad.

We had all our essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, extra set of clothes, and all the money we got from supportive family members. It would barely be enough to rent a motel for a couple nights. But, I promised him and I would never break a promise. It would be ruff, but I'm sure we'll get through it.

I looked at Virgil, the most precious, important person in the WORLD for me. I will do ANYTHING to make sure he's safe. And I will do ANYTHING to make sure he feels safe, too. Even if that means suppressing my own problems. Like the lack of friends at school. The signs of depression...NO! Snap out of it! You need to pass this test, Patton. Or else...don't even think "or else". Virgil's counting on you. Get it together, Patton!

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I passed the test! Thank the lord! Now, I can drive far far away from the man I once called "dad". Most importantly, now I drive far far away from the man who hurt my little brother. I got into my new car, that they gave to me at no extra charge once they heard my situation, and started it. I looked over at Virgil, checking to make sure he had his seat belt on. Then I drove away.