"Ugghh."

I opened my eyes and saw Cassie beside me, asleep just like I had been. Her breathing was heavy and regular, a peaceful expression on her face. I stretched my arms inconspicuously and smiled, looking at her sleeping form.

Through all the battles, all the horror, only she could do it, only Cassie could see past the mask I wore. And she understood why I had to wear it. The lives of my friends and family, the lives of everyone and everything on Earth were at stake, and I couldn't afford to let down my guard for a second. But despite the mask, she knew.

And I never outwardly told her how I was slowly being consumed by the constant fear, paranoia, burden of being a leader, yet she knew it all.

Plus she almost always seemed to know when I was going over the edge, because she was there, everytime. Whether it was a light kiss on the cheek, an encouraging smile, or even a few simple words, Cassie had no idea how much all these things meant to me. They kept me alive.

Cassie stirred slightly and sighed, hopefully finding a little bit of sanctuary in her sleep.

I think she knew how I felt about her, I'm not terribly good with words and things like that. Not to mention we're both kind of shy when it comes to admitting how we feel about each other, but we both knew. Cassie came to me for support, and I gave her this as best as I knew how. And in a way, she was right. Cassie would never have to worry about being alone. I would never leave her side. Ever.

I slowly took my eyes off Cassie for a minute, and glanced at the clock. We had to leave soon, I didn't want to stop thinking about her, or wake her up either, but I knew I had to.

"Cassie. Cassie, it's Jake." Cassie opened her eyes slightly in response, and she gave me a tired, but amused smile.

"Hey Jake." I felt myself slowly smiled back at her.

"Sorry I had to wake you up, Cass, but it's time to go. Class is almost over."