After You Catch Me

Chapter 1

Leah

"She's Gone"

High school isn't the same without Laura. I keep seeing the empty seat next to mine in Biology class. I miss running into her in the halls. Rolling our eyes at yet another ninth grader throwing spitballs. I miss her texts to meet up for lunch in the cafeteria or planning another sleepover.

Her death has affected Kurtis too. He tries not to let it show but it does. I met her sister Katie and Katie gave me some of her stuff. "Laura would want you to have this." She told me. It was a pair of pajamas she bought at Walmart, her bible and backpack. I still can't wrap my head around why she'd run away. I often blame myself and Kurtis is concerned. He says I need a counselor. But after what Laura said about Mrs. Pidd I'm not so sure. I got a referral and I'm seeing a counselor after school on Fridays. Mom's also keeping an eye on me and Dad's being Dad, supportive but unsure how to support I guess. I am trying to make new friends but it seems no one wants to be real friends with the dead girls best friend. I mean people are nice but I'm not sure if they're just being nice cause Laura is gone or if they're being genuine. Will I make new friends? Will Kurtis get help too? How can I get past this? Can I get past this? I have no clue.

Chapter 2

Alex

"The Journey Ahead"

I'm a lawyer. I know the law. I know rules and regulations inside and out. Do you think I could fight the court for the airplane that crashed? No, unfortunately details are top secret during investigation. I want to be the first to know those details though. The grief I feel after all that has happened is a lot to bear. My daughter dying, my other daughter refusing to speak to me. much. One stepson mad at me and one hardly even visits and my 2 year old having tantrums. The only supportive one is Kathy my wife. I have no idea what I would do without her. Marie was at least polite to me at Laura's funeral so that's a good sign. I'm thinking of joining a support group for Dads that have lost children, perhaps that might help? All I know is it will be a long journey ahead for myself and my family.

Chapter 3

Katie

"My Sister, I miss her"

It's been awhile. Time has either blended or gone so slowly I don't even know what day it is half the time. The days blend into weeks and weeks blend into months. Many memories come to mind and questions. I got married but I will never stand beside her on her wedding day, and she won't meet her niece. I found out shortly after marrying Danny I'm pregnant. I'm planning on naming the baby partially after Laura and partially after Danny's mom Mary and my mom Marie. No one knows but Danny and my mom.

Alyson Laura Marie Lansage

It's a bittersweet time and I have no idea how I'll tell my dad. The fact my half sister will only be 2.5 years older than my daughter too? It's so weird. I guess I have time. I saw dad at the funeral and Mom was there too. Neither spoke many words to each other. Dad spoke to me briefly before my stepmom needed him for something with Chrissa. I think potty training or something. Laura probably would have told me "Just wait Katie, your time is coming with your new baby." with a smirk. I am hoping this baby will bring more joy to my life then sorrow as my ultrasounds are showing signs my baby girl might not be healthy when she's born. I am praying that she will be healthy though.

to be continued..