Chapter 26

Ricky

Standing by the window, my face close enough to see the imprints of each exhale on the glass, I stare at the city below.

Cars drive by, some drifting, others going slowly. Streetlights stand grand in their positions, static security personnel. People keep moving, the difference in their lives and sprint in their feet evident.

I notice a couple who seem to have no sight of anyone else in the area, their hands intertwined as they walk down the street, laughter evident on their faces. They look… happy. Are they happy? Or is it their mask for when they’re outside?

A weary arm rubs my even wearier face, shaking my frame — slightly— as it does. The image of old Griever’s face laughing floats through my face, and it makes me smile a weak smile.

Was he happier now? Less irritable? I haven’t seen him since that evening, but I wonder if the vent has influenced his life. Was this influence a good one? Or one I’d split my head into two for? I shake my head a