Summary: People with good intentions make promises.
People with good character keep them.
-Unknown

 I finally got onto my apartment's floor. First of all, holy shit! Four flights of stairs on crutches was not a joke; I almost fell over twice. I’m still wondering why this complex had no elevators. Was the landowner cheap? Whatever the answer was, I still needed to get to my apartment. After a few minutes of hobbling, I found my apartment door… which was slightly ajar. Fuck, I didn’t lock it over a month ago while rushing out of here. Anxiety gripped me as my brain processed what it looked like inside the apartment: an empty room, a meth den, a Rhinorex slaver? Each thought grew more absurd by the second. It’s now or never. I gripped the door handle and peered inside; nothing was out of the ordinary. I entered the apartment and looked around; everything was exactly where I left it: the duke, my low-end PC, and the cracked toilet. Man, the landowner must really be cheap.

 

Then a loud snap filled the room as something bounced off my head. I looked at the projectile as it rolled on the floor. It was a copper BB. I looked at the long-abandoned enclosure that contained my rouge companion. “Raymba?” Raymba let out two electronic chirps as he spun around in his pen. I moved to him and picked him up; the poor guy must be hungry. I picked up a few crumbled flakes as I placed them onto my hand with Raymba. He happily ate them from the palm of my hand; a smile formed on my face. He’s probably the only thing that would benefit from someone like me, even though I almost ditched Raymba when we first met. After a few minutes, I set him back in his enclosure as he bumped into its walls.

 

I looked at my PC. I didn’t feel like shitposting right now. The Finnish self-medication group would have to wait a little longer for me to hop back on. I’m pretty sure the food in the fridge had spoiled. At least I had bought some canned food for the apocalypse. I wasn’t hungry as of yet, but walking from the hospital was a pain in my leg. I looked at my bed; it was still unmade after the bed's sheets were thrown aside as I charged out of there last month. Looking it over, I saw something odd under the sheets. I lifted the sheets to reveal the abnormality. It was a solitary down feather. Judging by where it was, this wasn't from one of my pillows. I carefully picked it up and laid it on my right palm. Its softness alone was enough to send soul-crushing sorrow through me.

 

It was hers.

 

I sat on the bed, looking over the small feather in my hand. If I had noticed the warning signs earlier, she would still be safe. She wouldn’t have been crippled. She wouldn’t even be on trial right now. Most importantly, all of those people would be alive. I was taught a painful lesson that day, and I learned it the hard way. I should be thankful to whoever above felt pity for Fang; she is still alive. But judging from her freakout today, she is struggling. I do love her, even if I was too retarded to show it. This time, Fang, I will do better for you. I promised I would be the best fucking boyfriend for you. If I didn’t show it then, let me show it now.

 

A few tear drops fall onto my open palm. I closed my hand to keep the feather dry. Fuck, I didn’t realize I was crying. After wiping my eyes, I checked my phone: no calls, texts, or emails from my parents. They didn’t even visit me at all while I was hospitalized. Did they even care about me? I began looking through my contacts; there were no new texts or calls. Reed didn’t even contact me. As for Trish… “YOU!! WHY DID YOU COME HERE?!? YOU BASTARD, WHY COULDN’T YOU LEAVE US ALONE!!! NOW LOOK WHAT HAPPENED!!” — She didn’t send anything either. I switched off my phone and sat there in the silent apartment. I’m going to visit Fang tomorrow. I made a promise, and I’m going to keep that promise. I held the feather over my heart.

 

<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>

 

The taxi swerves into another lane as it speeds off. I was holding onto the grip handle whenever the driver made any sharp turns. After a few more minutes of law-breaking driving, the car stopped almost immediately. The driver, who drove me and Fang to prom, turned to me with a sly smile. “Okay, kid, we’re at Volcaldera Central Hospital.” I started to fish out cash for him; eight dollars should do it. I handed the money to him, but he put up a finger, “Sorry, forgot to mention we have a disability discount of half off.” I nodded as I handed him four dollars instead.

 

After I exited the taxi, he sped off while violating multiple traffic laws. Sometimes I wonder how he hasn’t been pulled over yet. Entering the hospital, it was bare inside. The only people that are in view are the staff manning the front desk and a few dinos waiting for their appointments. I went to the front desk, “Uh, hello?”

 

The Troodon receptionist turns to me. “Oh, good morning, sir! How can I assist you?” She replied with a sweetness in her voice that was similar to Naomi's. ( She was only trying to be closer to Naser.)

 

“I’m here to visit Fang Aran.” Her face scrunched up for a second before she opened a drawer, pulled out a stack of stapled paper, and ran through it for a solid minute. She finally stopped at a page and put the papers away.

 

“Understood. Can I get your full name?” She brought up a clipboard and a pin.

 

“I am Anon Y Mous.” She wrote that on the clipboard as she picked up a phone.

 

After several minutes of chatting on the other side, she hung up and gave me the pin, “Alright, Fang is expecting you. Here’s your visitor's pin; their room is on the fifth floor in the recovery ward, room number 528.”

 

I thanked her as I clipped the pin to my jacket. Fang is still on the fifth floor and is expecting me. I don't want to keep her waiting. I limped to the nearest elevator and pressed the button that said ‘5’ on the control panel. The elevator began its ascent, sparing me from the burden of using the stairs again. Thank god for elevators. The wait seemed longer than it was as the doors opened to a long hallway. It took me a minute to find her room again, but the stationed compy police officer made it easier to spot. I limped in front of him as he looked up at me, standing on the chair while he did. “Anon Mous, I assume?” I nodded in response. He sighed, “Verbal response, please.”

 

“Yes, officer, I am Anon Y Mous.” He nodded.

 

“Alright, let me get the door for you, sir.” The officer hopped down from the chair and opened the door with its compy-accessible secondary handle. Holding it open long enough for me to get in before closing it.

 

The room was the same as yesterday. The walls were the same ungodly cream color. The radio still played the same music I recognized as indie rock; I think Green Day was playing. I haven’t heard much of their songs, but their band's way of playing was unique enough to be pointed out. The flowers on the table were starting to wither. Then there was the bed; Fang looked half-awake, and her eyes were dreary. She didn’t look like she had any sleep last night. Was Fang getting nightmares like me? Whatever the case, she didn’t seem to notice me walk into the room. “Fang?”

 

She turned her head to me. She then looked surprised to see me standing at the doorway. “Anon? Shit, sorry, I was just too tired to notice you walk in.”

 

I hobbled to the nearest chair and placed it beside the bed, sitting down on it. “It’s fine; you don’t have to apologize.” She smiled softly as her tired eyes examined my face. “So, did you sleep well last night?”

 

Her smile disappeared, “I…” There was a long pause. “I did.” That was strange; why would she pause for that long?

 

I looked her in the eyes. “Are you sure?”

 

She rubbed the bridge of her snout. “Yes, Anon.” Fang sounded slightly annoyed.

 

There’s something she isn’t telling me. “Fang? Are you absolutely–”

 

“Yes, Anon. I’m sure!” The sudden vitriol in her voice shocked me. Her face softened up after she snapped at me. “I- I… Anon.” Her eyes were getting misty. “I don’t want to talk about it… Please?”

 

I put my hand on her shoulder. “Why not?”

 

“Anon,” Fang was looking into my eyes. “Please don’t make me. I don’t want to scare you.”

 

“Fang,” I gave her a soft smile. “You won’t scare me, I promise.” Fang looked away as she took a minute to compose herself before she started.

 

“It… It was horrifying.” A few drops of tears fell from her eyes. “It was a nightmare, but… it.” Fang looked back at me. “It felt so real, Anon. My brother– Oh, God! ” The dam broke as tears began to stream down her face. My heart broke as I watched Fang, my girlfriend, break into pieces before me. I managed to reach over and hug her; she hugged me back with her only arm.

 

We both stayed there for some time. My hand was softly rubbing the spot between her wings on her back. While I occasionally shushed to her. Soon, her breathing evened out, and eventually, Fang calmed down. She pulled away to look me in the eyes. “Anon?”

 

“Yes?”

 

Fang's eyes were red from crying, “Why are you here?” Her question surprised me.

 

I wondered what she meant by it, so I answered honestly, “Because I love you, and I couldn’t imagine not being here with you.” Fang took a moment to process my answer.

 

She then asked another question, “Are you afraid of me?”

 

Her question caught me off guard. “What!? No! Why would I?”

 

She slowly lowered her head, her eyes avoiding mine. “B- Because of what I did…”

 

I knew what she meant, the shooting. To be honest, I didn’t know she was capable of such violence. There was so much blood. And the smell, oh god, the smell. She shot all of those students. She even shot her own brother. ( He loved her to the very end.) I would be lying to myself if I denied it. She did scare me at first. Hell, she downright terrified me. But I would also be lying if I thought I had no hand in this. Fang was hurting after prom, after that disaster of a show. And what did I do? I just played some fucking rock ring and tried to tell Fang non of what happened mattered. And I slipped up and told her about Naomi’s plan. I could only imagine what Fang went through during the day after prom. To see what she was capable of…

 

So I looked at the person before me— the person whom I loved, and with a straight face, I lied. “Fang, I’m not afraid of you.”

 

Fang looked almost surprised before she layed back on her bed. “Are you sure?”

 

I shrugged, “I’m positive.”

 

Then a look of guilt ran across her face. “Sorry about your leg.”

 

“Oh, this?” I pointed at my injured leg. “Tis but a flesh wound.”

 

Fang sat up, looking worried, “A flesh wound?! Anon, your leg snapped in half!”

 

I sighed heavily. Probably not the best time for Monty Titanoboa quips, “I’ll live. It's not like it's going to stay broken.”

 

Fang scoffed, “What if it heals wrong!?”

 

I chuckle a little, “Then I use a cane to walk, but I don't need to rely on it constantly. Also, the doctor said I probably won't need it if I don't pressure my leg too much while it heals. At least I got a badass scar on it!”

 

Fang stares blankly as her face softens. She let out a small chuckle. “I oughta shoot your other leg.” Her voice was quiet.

 

“You know what? I think one broken leg is good enough for me.” She looked surprised; was it something I said?

 

“Did you read my mind??” Did she not mean to say that? Then it hit me. Fang mumbled. She adopted my mumbling!

 

“No, I think you mumbled.” A smile formed on my face as she blushed.

 

“ Ohdammithowdidthishappen??? ” I chuckled as she did it again; Fang noticed, “Anon, stop it! Quit using your monkey magic on me!!!” I couldn’t help but laugh as Fang tried to stop me from laughing.

 

“You know? It is kinda cute!” She flipped me off. “Well, that's not nice. Still love you, though!” Fang settled back on the bed, pouting while doing so. I settled back on the chair. “I’m sorry you have to go through this, Fang.”

 

She sighed, “It’s not your fault Anon… It’s mine. Nothing could change what I have done, but I wished I could go back in time and tell myself to stay with you. And because of what I did, I’m getting what I deserved.”

 

I wanted to correct her, but I couldn’t find the words to do so. “I don’t want to see you go to prison, Fang.” Her expression softened.

 

“I know… But at least I’ll go knowing you're not afraid of me.” A pained smile formed on her face. I got up, ignoring the dull pain in my left shin. “Anon?! What are you—” I hugged Fang.

 

“I was never afraid of you, Fang. I mean… I did see how much of your anger had built up. And how you released it. But I never feared you.” She sat there motionless for a moment before hugging back. We sat silently for what felt like an eternity. I checked the time on my phone; I had been with Fang for almost two hours. “Alright, sweet tooth,” I said as I got up with my crutches. “I gotta get going.”

 

Fang looked almost upset. “Already? Are you sure you don't want to stay longer?”

 

“I would love to, but Skin Row gets more dangerous to walk around later in the day.”

 

After a while, she relented, “Alright. Stay safe, okay, Anon?” Fang gave me a warm smile.

 

“I will.” I reached over and kissed her on her forehead, “I hope tonight won't be as bad as last night for you. I love you, Fang.”

 

She let out a soft chuckle, “I hope so too. I love you too, Anon. Will you be here tomorrow?”

 

“Of course, I will!” I gave a soft smile to her. Then I hobbled out of the room.

 

The officer waved me off as I went to the elevator. The visit didn’t start as well as I thought, but Fang is visibly going through it hard. She was even worried that she might have permanently crippled me. And that nightmare she said she had, she was too scared to even tell me what it was about. I wonder what it could’ve been about, but I don’t think I would be hearing anything about it from her anytime soon. I made it into the elevator and sent it to the first floor. It was strange hearing Fang mumble for the first time. I wasn’t lying when I said it was kinda cute. The elevator dinged as it reached the ground floor, and its doors opened. It didn’t take long for me to reach the front entrance.

 

I pulled my phone out and dialed the taxi driver, and almost immediately, he picked up. “Be right there!” Then he closed the line just as fast. Before I could register what had happened, the taxi drifted next to the curb before stopping. He rolled down the passenger's side window and gave me a sly smile. “Well, if it isn’t my favorite customer.”

 

“Jesus, man! Could you get here any faster?”

 

He chuckled, “Maybe? Where to kid?”

 

I entered the taxi, “My place.” He nodded as he took off soon after I closed the door.

 

Several breakneck turns later. The taxi arrived at my place. I left the car after giving him cash, and he took off soon after. Despite the discount, it's going to put a dent in my savings spending eight a day just to visit Fang for a few hours. I could walk (If you call it that), but that takes an hour with crutches. And not to mention, I’m crip-walking through Skin Row. Sure, it's in the daylight, but it’s still not safe enough to be out in the open as a cripple. Even if the majority of Skin Row is human. But I made a promise, one I intend to keep. After a short while, I got to my apartment with no incident and entered. Luckily enough, I did lock the door this time when I left. I checked the time. 1:19 PM; still plenty of time before nightfall. Time that I could’ve been with Fang. But I’m no good to Fang if I’m beaten up or killed in an alleyway.

 

I sighed as I sat down on my chair and flicked on my PC. Shit posting was long overdue. But before I could visit the Serbian bottle collectors thread, I decided to check my emails. Usually, there is nothing important in there. Most of the emails were spam as always, but there was one that stood out. It was from the VH School Administration. I opened it to see what it was about. It was an automated email about the shooting. It turns out the school never opened again afterward and that there was no graduation ceremony held after school was supposed to end. So the administration was mailing everyone their diplomas; they should be delivered after two weeks. I clicked out of the email and deleted it.

 

Well, I graduated, but at what cost? Six people died because I wasn’t mature enough to consider that the person I loved might be going through a life crisis. And they let the world know about it through the sound of a gun. That one guy with his throat blown open could’ve been an attorney. Or that girl who had her brains splattered all over the lockers— she could’ve been a software engineer. And Naomi… Well, it's hard to say what she would’ve been. Then there's Naser. He sometimes talked about going to medical school after graduation. All those kids never had a chance of graduating and fulfilling their lifelong dreams.

 

And then there's me, the human loner. And the so-called ‘hero’ of Volcano High. I have no idea what my future would be like. Though, kid me thought I knew what my future was, being a fucking shinobi sword master. Then after I learned about reality, I just didn’t know. My parents laid it out to me after I left Rock Bottom; college or the service, and they didn't care which. And their care was proven more when I was left alone in that hospital. A whole month without a single visit. Not even a phone call. Though, I guess I wasn’t completely alone; there was Fang. She was on the same floor as me. I took comfort that she was alive and not too far from me. The day they told me she came to, I was elated. But they still wouldn’t let me visit her until they knew my leg was good enough not to break as soon as I got off the bed.

 

I can’t wait to start walking normally again. The same can’t be said about Fang, though. God, I thought I was going to see her connected to twenty different machines when I walked into her room for the first time. I was surprised to see she was only on a monitor. And her beak… those sons of bitches. Why would they do something like that? Wasn’t her fall enough for them? God, so much blood. It was painful to see her like that. And that I couldn’t do a thing about it. (You could’ve…) No, not like that. Fuck, I’m glad she is still alive. But her freedom is another question. I’m no fool; Fang might go to prison. Now that I think about it, she could be put on death row.

 

More than that, I’m afraid of what will happen to her in prison. What if she gets shanked by another inmate? What if a guard takes advantage of her? God, I hope it doesn’t come to that. But my time with Fang is short. If I had to make amends, I would have to do it whenever I possibly can. And now that I think about it, I could’ve spent more time with her. Hell, visiting hours don't end until eight p.m. And the taxi drops me off not too far from my apartment. So I should be fine crutch walking home from that time. Of course, there's the taxi cost. It's not much, but it's a lot if I’m going to visit Fang. Maybe If I walk in the morning, I could save four dollars right there and still mitigate the risk of Death-By-Hobo. Of course, my leg will hurt. But it will get plenty of rest after several hours of sitting.

 

It was settled. I would spend the whole ten visiting hours with Fang. I looked at the down feather, which I had delicately placed on the desk beside my monitor. I made a promise, and I still intend to keep it. I grabbed the feather and held it over my heart. Meeting you was the best thing that happened to me. And I’m sorry that I made it hell for you to meet me. I know I have a lot to make up for in a short span of time. But I will make up for it. I felt terrible for lying to Fang. To be honest, I was not afraid of her. I was afraid of what she was capable of. I sometimes wonder if she… no… she didn’t.

 

(How can you be so sure?)

 

<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>

 

The elevator ascends. I’ve been visiting Fang for the past week. At first, she protested about me leaving so late. She almost had me kicked out the second day I visited her. I get and understand why she was worried. But after an hour of reassurance that I wouldn’t get shanked the moment I left the door, she allowed it. In the time we spent together, we enjoyed our company. Usually: chatting, watching TV, or talking about what had happened. It was hard to see her in so much emotional turmoil. Sometimes, I wonder if she would be able to move on from it. I know it will take time for me. But for her, I couldn’t imagine. From what I could tell, she didn’t have any more nightmares. Or that's what she said to me. The elevator dinged, signaling to me that I was on the fifth floor. The doors opened, and I hobbled out.

 

Or that's what would've happened if I saw the slippery floor sign. Instead, my crutch slid out, and I fell onto the damp floor. Fuck. You. Newton. I was laid out flat on my stomach as the elevator doors tried to close with my good leg in the way. Getting up was going to be a bitch. Until someone called out to me. “Oh! Sorry about that, sir.” The voice was aged. Shortly after, the stranger helped me up. Once I was on my feet, or in this case, my crutches. I saw my savior. It was an aged red stegosaur male with a grey bushy mustache. Who is wearing blue scrubs and a cap, with a bucket and mop not too far from him. “I knew I shoulda put that sign in front of the elevator. You good, kid?”

 

“Yea, I’m fine, thanks!” I gave the janitor a thumbs up. “It was gonna be tough getting back up. Thanks for getting me back on my feet!”

 

“It ain’t no problem, kid.” He said as he returned to his duties.

 

I took a minute to examine the floor; it was bone dry and clean. That janitor was good at cleaning. I tapped my jacket pocket before I continued to Fang's room, careful not to slip again. I found the compy officer at his usual post. By this time, he recognized me as a regular visitor. “Good morning, Anon.”

 

“Mornin’.” I gave him my usual wave. He hopped down and opened the door for me. I hobbled in, and the door closed. The room still hadn’t changed much. The radio was still silently playing Fang’s favorite music. The flowers were long gone. Then there was Fang, who was sitting on the bed looking in my direction. “Good morning, sweet tooth!” I pulled up a chair and sat in it.

 

“Morning, Anon.” She said as she relaxed on her bed.

 

I began to dig into my pocket, “So I brought something with me.”

 

Fang looked intrigued by what I brought, “What did you bring?”

 

“A friend.” I pulled out my companion from my pocket, Raymba.

 

Her eyes widened, “Is that the phone Roomba you made into a pet?”

 

“Ah! His name is Raymba. Yes, this is him.” I corrected her.

 

Fang looked at Raymba, “Sorry. Kinda missed the little guy.”

 

I put my companion on the table beside us. He began to search for dust on the table shortly after. Fang had a soft smile on her face as she watched Raymba move about. Her fake snout pointed in his general direction as she looked on. Fang’s false beak almost looked like the real thing, minus the short sliver of metal at the base. And the slight discoloration between real and silicone flesh. God, to be disfigured against your own will. I remember who it was; I saw them. A red triceratops. A fucking trigger. It would’ve been nice to see his brains splattered on the pavement. And not Fang’s mang–

 

“Anon?” Fang interrupted my thoughts; I looked at her. “Did you hear me?”

 

Fuck. I wasn’t paying any attention. “Shit, sorry. I didn’t think I heard you. What did you say?”

 

Fang paused for a moment, “Have you heard from Reed? Or Trish?”

 

I shook my head, “No, I haven’t.”

 

Fang looked upset, “They haven’t tried to visit me at all.” She rubbed her left temple. “Not even Trish… I tried calling and texting them. But none of them answered.” She reached for her phone, brought it up, and showed me the texts. Each one was either hours or days apart.

 

Fang: Reed, it’s me. I woke up from my coma a few days ago. Is it OK if we talk about what happened?

 

Fang: Are you there? I would like to see you and Trish soon if that's okay. Also, Anon is visiting me, FYI.

 

Fang: Reed? Trish hadn’t responded to my texts. You're making me worried. Please text back soon.

 

Fang: Reed??? Look, I know what I have done. And I regret it. But I’m still me. I’m still Fang, your best friend. Could you at least text me something? Please?

 

Fang: I’m sorry… I really am Reed.

 

A tear fell from her eye. “None of them got back to me. I’ve been left on read these past two weeks.” She flicked the tear away. “I don't know why they are this way. Anon?” She reached for my hand and grasped it “Are they scared of me?”

 

That was a good question, even though I doubt they would be scared of her. Reed and Trish were her friends for a long time. To be honest, I have no idea as to why they aren’t here. Did something else come up for them at the same time? If that's the case, why was it taking so long? “I don’t think so, sweet tooth.”

 

“Then why aren't they contacting me? Not even Trish…” Fang was upset about this.

 

“Maybe they got caught up in something? I’m sure they have their reasons, Fang.” Whatever those might be.

 

She looked defeated. Losing hope in the prospect of meeting her friends one last time. “Maybe… Maybe not…” Her grip slightly tightens, and a warm smile crosses her meek face, “At least I still have you.”

 

I gazed into her brilliant amber eyes, my hand holding hers “Me too.” We both stayed like that as if we were suspended in time, locked in each other's gaze. It’s been a while since we shared this kind of serenity. And probably the only time, too. Eventually, we were broken from our spell when the in-room telephone rang. Both of our eyes were drawn to the wall-mounted telephone just above the table. I glanced at Fang, “Expecting someone?”

 

“No,” She reached over and picked it up, holding it over her ear. “Hello?” I couldn’t hear the person on the other side. A smile formed on Fang's face, “ Oh! Who is it?” Fang listened closely to the person. Then Fang’s face suddenly changed to one of absolute terror. She began glancing at me and the phone. “Um, may I -I ask which one?!” Which one? Who was she referring to? ( Well, you did piss off one person who would make her fear for your life.) My stomach dropped; is HE here?!? The alarms were blaring; would I get away in time?? Anxiety gripped me as tightly as the day of the shooting. I looked over to Fang, whose expression softened, “Oh! Yes, she can come in.”

 

Ok, Fang, I know your head got messed up from that day, but you— Wait? “She??”

 

Fang glanced back at me, “Yeah, Mom’s visiting! Don't worry, Dad’s not with her…” I felt a massive wave of relief wash over me; I was safe. “Jesus Dweeb! Are you okay? You look like you ran a  marathon in one sitting, literally!”

 

I looked at her quizzically, “Huh?” I didn’t notice that my body was covered in a cold sweat. “Oh, sorry. I thought your Dad might fucking kill me.” My labored breathing subsided as I calmed down.

 

“Well, I’m sure he might…” Fang sighed as she laid back on the bed, “I think Mom would be happy to see you.”

 

“You sure? I mean…” Before I could finish my sentence, the door opened.

 

Her Mom appears, carrying a fresh bundle of flowers in a vase. Man, she got here fast!  “Good morning, Fang! I brought you som–” She abruptly stopped when she laid her eyes on me. I don't think I saw her eyes open that wide before. Then, her face became stern. “Fang… What is he doing here?”

 

Her attitude surprised me. I don't think I ever saw her this cross in—  well, ever. Fang shared the same sentiment as her eyes widened. “Mom?” Her mom didn’t say anything. She was expecting an answer. Fang paused as she thought of a way to appease her mother. “Well, Anon was visiting me. He's been visiting me almost every day now.”

 

Fang’s Mom didn’t move. She kept glancing between me and her daughter, which she called by her non-binary name. Wait, she’s calling her Fang now?! Her mother eventually responded, “Sure…” She walked past me and set the flowers on the table beside Fang. She acted like I wasn’t even there.

 

“Uh... Morning Mrs. Aran.” She didn’t respond to me. Instead, she pulled up a chair opposite of the bed. Jesus! What's with the cold shoulder, lady?

 

Fang kept looking at her mother. “Are you okay, mom?”

 

“Yes..” She replied, but she kept her eyes on me.

 

Fang didn’t seem convinced, “Mom, you know if there’s something wrong, you could let me know. Right?.”

 

She finally took her eyes off of me to glance at her daughter. “Well, Fang… Don’t take this the wrong way, dearie.” Her gaze returned to me. “But I think Anon should go.”

 

Wow… Just- wow. Since when did she get a bug up her– “Really?!” Fang wasn’t pleased, but she kept calm. “Why?”

 

Her Mom sucked the air through her teeth. “I don’t think he is a good influence on you, dearie.” (Well, she isn’t wrong there.) She continued. “Ever since you brought him home on your little date. You were being more—” She paused, “difficult, I should say. Remember prom?” Fang hung her head low. “You couldn’t even let me take a picture of you.”

 

“Mom I–”

 

“Then you disappeared after your mishap.” She interrupted. “Your father and I were worried sick. We were glad you came home in the morning, but you started acting strange. Then sometime in the night, you disappeared. We didn’t realize you were gone until Naser went to check on you.” Fang seemed to space out. “He ran, and I mean ran out of the house to find you. It wasn’t long until we heard about what happened at school.” She put a hand on Fang’s thigh. “I’m not here to antagonize you, Fang. But I do want to know one thing if that's okay.” Her mother looked up to her daughter with weary eyes. “Why?...”

 

Fang looked down again; her eyes were becoming misty. “I... I wanted–” She looked back to her mother, “- Revenge. I wanted to hurt someone.” Tears were pouring from her eyes.

 

Her mom looked shocked, “Who, dearie?”

 

“Naomi… she fucking–” Fang couldn’t finish her sentence as she buried her head into her hand.

 

“What? What did she do, honey?” There was no judgment in her voice, only concern.

 

Fang looked at me. “I– It was…” She took a moment to compose herself. “It was because she forced Anon and me together.” Her mom’s eyes widened.

 

“What do you mean, ‘forced?’” Her mother tilted her head. 

 

Fang looked back to her mom. “She changed Anon’s schedule to match some of my classes.” Her voice began to break. “I felt so angry . I felt betrayed at first, but Anon didn’t force Naomi to do it. Instead,” Fang looked back at me. “He was just as helpless as I was, even if he knew first.” A soft smile formed on her face. “And he truly wants to be with me. Even if I’m–”

 

“Who told you about what Naomi did, dearie?” Her voice was cold.

 

Fang returned her attention to her mom. “Um, Anon did. After I–” She looked embarrassed. “ Asked… ”

 

“I see… Fang, please tell me.” She looked Fang dead in the eyes. “Was this after prom?”

 

I don’t see where her mom was going with this. “Y- yea?” Fang answered.

 

Her mom clasped her hands and sighed, “Fang, I think Anon should go. Now. ”

 

“But Mom, I–”

 

“No buts, Fang.” She hissed. “Anon is a bad influence on you, dearie. Look what he made you d–”

 

“He didn’t make me do anything, Mom!” Fang interrupted, “I did this myself. Anon had nothing to do with it!”

 

Her mom sighed again. “Where were you when you left? Were you at his place?”

 

Fang paused, “I… Yes…” She sounds defeated.

 

Her mom turned to me, “Anon, do us a favor and leave.”

 

“Mom!” Fang protested, and the duo stared each other down. “Anon isn’t bad; did you know he was the only person to visit me this entire week?” Her mom didn’t seem convinced.

 

“No, but for all I know, he wants to keep you under his thumb.” She scoffed. Fang shook her head.

 

“ Mom , I’m going to ask you once . And Just this once. ” Her mom waited to counter any argument Fang had in store, except for one. She hung her head low as she gathered her resolve.

 

“Leave…”

 

Whoa, I didn’t expect that from Fang. Her mom thinks so too, with that look of shock on her face! “Fang, I don’t think I heard you–”

 

“Leave...” Fang is starting to sound pissed. I mean, sure, her mom is being a big-time hag. But I don’t think she should be kicked out for being concerned for her child. I think it’s time to chip in.

 

“Fang, you don’t have t–”

 

“Can it, Anon!” Fang was visibly pissed. She returned to her mom. “Last time, Mom. Leave! ”

 

Her mom scoffed, “You can’t make me leave. I am your mother, young la–” She stopped herself, “-Child!”

 

Fang suppressed her anger before pressing a button on the bed twice. Something electronic chirped twice just outside. It wasn’t long before the compy officer outside entered the room. “Is there something the matter?”

 

Fang turned to the officer, “Yes, could you please escort Samantha Aran out of my room?” There was poison behind how she said her mother's name.

 

Her mother looked like she was catatonic about the fact that her own child would do this to her. “Fang! You can’t be–”

 

“Ma’am, please leave the room.” The officer was beside Samantha.

 

“What, no! Do you know who I am?!”

 

The officer sighed, “Yes, I do. You're Mrs. Aran, wife of Commissioner Ripley Aran. Who is also my boss. You are not Ripley, and you are not my boss.” She tried to argue with him before he lifted a finger, “Ah! Even if he was here, he is related to Fang. If you were him, you would still be kicked out.” The officer remarked, “House rules, ma’am.”

 

Samantha’s beak was wide open. “But- I-”

 

“Ma’am, I would rather tell Ripley that you left willingly than tell him that I had to drag you out.” 

 

Samantha sat for a minute before complying. “Fine…” She got up and began to follow the officer out before she turned to Fang one last time at the doorway. “I just wanted what was best for you, Fang…” Then she left.

 

Fang laid back on her bed, misty-eyed. She was happy that her Mom was here to visit her. But Fang could’ve never guessed that her mom would be so angry against me. And now Samantha is probably more pissed at me than when she first entered. I can’t seem to stop making things worse . Fang looked at me. Did I say that out loud? “Anon… Stop, you aren’t making things worse.” Fang looked at me. Her eyes were red and dry from all the crying. “I’m making things worse.” She hung her head low. I felt like shit just seeing her like this. I never would’ve guessed that I would end up with someone special. But even then, I was selfish and distant. Now, I don’t want to be that way.

 

All that matters is her.

 

I started to scootch my chair right next to her bed. “Anon? What are you doing?”

 

After I finally got the chair over there, I turned to Fang, “You know, getting closer to you.” I managed to turn my chair so it faced the TV on the wall ahead. The chair was nearly touching her bed.

 

She took a moment to process what I was trying to do. “You know you don't have to do that, Anon.”

 

I glanced at her, “What? I can’t be closer to my favorite person?”

 

She looked away, “I didn’t mean that dweeb.” She huffed.

 

We were both silent for what seemed like minutes. I broke that silence, “I don’t want to see you go away, Fang.” She didn’t say anything. She sat in silence. “I want to spend these few days we have together. Even if you’re gone tomorrow or the end of the year, I want to be with you.” Fang was still quiet. I focused my attention on the crappy cream-colored wall ahead.

 

I heard the bed shift next to me. Fang shuffled closer to me. What was she– Fang laid her head on my right shoulder. “I know…” She smiled as her arm reached around my other shoulder. “I appreciate what you’re doing, Anon.” She nuzzled into my shoulder. “I’m sorry about my Mom… I had no idea that she would act that way to you.” Fang sighed heavily.

 

“It’s okay, Fang.” I interlocked my fingers into Fang’s hand. “Neither of us knew. At least your Dad didn’t pay a visit.”

 

“Yea, ain’t that the truth.” Fang sounded morose. “I don’t know what he is even doing right now. Probably court-related stuff if I had to guess.”

 

My eyes turned to Fang. “Oh, do you know what's going on or…”

 

She rolled her eyes. “Yea. My lawyer said the case was getting more difficult than the White v. Albuquerque case. Like I have any idea what that’s supposed to mean.”

 

More difficult? I wonder, “Did your lawyer win that case?”

 

Fang shrugged. “Maybe? He didn’t say anything else about it. I think he did if he brought it up while he talked to me. Other than that, I’m not sure.” Fang buried her head into my shoulder. “But I don’t want to think about that right now, Anon. I want to spend the time I have left with you.”

 

Her gaze met mine, and I smiled. “Sure thing, Fang.” I glanced at the TV. “Wanna pop a show on or–”

 

“No,” Fang spoke softly. “I just want this for now…”

 

I understood what she meant. I leaned my head against hers. My eyes saw Fang smile slightly.

 

I wanted this as well.

 

<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>

 

The elevator began its descent. Today wasn’t what I had in mind, with Fang’s mom entering the room and demanding me to leave, and then it ended with her being kicked out instead. Fang was down about what had happened. All because I didn’t leave. Maybe I should’ve, but what would’ve happened if I did hobble out of that door? Nothing pretty, I suppose. The elevator reached the ground floor. I went to the visitor's desk to turn in the pin. Then I showed myself to the front doors. The cool evening air splashed on my face. It felt refreshing after spending several hours inside. I spent some time savoring it… God, it felt good. I dug out my phone and called the taxi, the operator said it’ll be here soon. I kept watch.

 

Any minute now, I patiently waited for the taxi to show up. A taxi that already should’ve been here already. About five minutes go by, and the driver isn’t here yet. That's a first. I began to limp to the hospital. I should probably find a bench or– “Anon…” A cold feminine voice called out to me. A voice I know. I turned around to see Samantha standing not too far away from me. Has she been waiting for me? Her eyes glared at me coldly. “Why are you with my child?”

 

“I- I want to do right by her. Miss Aran, I–” 

 

“It's they! ” She interjected, her voice had a growing anger to it.

 

I paused, “I want to do right by Fang. ”

 

“Do right by Fang? It didn’t seem like it when you forced them to jump.” The fuck?!

 

“I did not force Fang to jump!!!” I pointed a finger at her. “I was trying to help h– them. And I fucked that up too. I didn’t want Fang to jump. But she— God dammit, they did.” I felt my eyes sting from the welling of tears. “I may have been the reason for what happened, but I never wanted any of this. I didn’t want Fang to kill anyone. I didn’t want Naser to die.” Samantha covered her mouth. Tears were falling from my face.

 

I continued, “I visited Fang so I could make amends before they go away forever. They were excited when you came by since no one else did, and you were too until you saw me.” I wiped the tears away. “I get why you don’t trust me, but in front of your child? You could’ve at least tried to talk to me in private.” Samantha looks away. “But you didn’t, and Fang thinks it's their fault about what happened between the three of us.”

 

She returned her gaze to me, “B- But it isn’t their fault!”

 

I looked away, “That's not what they think… in truth… it's my fault.” Samantha was bewildered at what I said. “I should’ve seen what was coming after I told Fang about what Naomi had done. I should’ve been nicer to them after they broke down in front of me. No, I wanted them to be normal. Just like what Naomi wanted. I see that now, and I was so blind to it.” We stood silent as the cool air washed over us. The taxi finally arrived with a honk as it rolled up. ”I do care about Fang, Miss Aran. I had met no one as special as Fang.”

 

I waited for her to speak, but she stayed silent. I began to limp to the taxi, and that was when she chose to speak. “I’m sorry.” Her apology shocked me. I turned to her. “Anon, I didn’t know you meant no ill intent with my child. When Ripley told me that you had something to do about it, I thought you were the devil himself. Tricking my child into doing evil things. I thought that's why they hurt their brother.” A tear fell from her eye. “But I guess I was blind, too. I was so blind that I lashed out at you in front of my only child. I know I should apologize to Fang, too. Is it okay if I do it tomorrow?” She asked, looking at me with a warm smile on her face. “With you beside me, of course.”

 

I smiled at her, “Sure! I think Fang would would like that. Now that we aren’t at each other's throats.” I looked at the taxi driver as he waved. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow. Goodbye, Samantha.”

 

“Goodbye, Anon.” She waved as I waved back.

 

I finally got into the taxi. I saw Samantha walking to the parking lot. I hope she didn’t wait several hours just to confront me. “Was she your lost mother or something?” I turned to the sly driver.

 

“Nah, just a friend.” The driver nodded as he drove off. For once, he wasn’t speeding. “Thank God you learned how to drive!

 

He chuckled. “Cop busted me early this morning. Had to pay almost four Benjamins outta pocket.”

 

“No shit?” The driver nodded at me.

 

I looked out to the streets. Cars passed by with drivers eager to go home after a hard day's work. Others drove by to get their pay doing the graveyard shift. The evening slowly gave way to night as the street lights came on to combat the darkness. Couples walked beside each other as they went to spend the night together. Other people just sat under the street lights, occasionally smoking something. Today was a bender and a half. At least Samantha and I were on better terms. But the day I confront Fang's dad would be the day of days. Hopefully, it won't be my last.

 

God, I wished some things were easy. (You and I know that isn’t the case.)