Shadows Pt. 3

“It took a few calls, but he finally picked up. I know I haven't spoken to anyone from my home for a long time but... I'm sure they'll forgive me. It's not like I did anything wrong, if that's what you're thinking. But it's just that side of everyone that comes out when someone they hold dear leaves them. Let's face it, I had to move on with my life, find a new side of me. Well... I'm not sure how happy I am with this new “side” of me, whatever craziness I have. It could just be homesickness. That's normal, right?

“Briar. And to think, I was about to start putting up your name on milk cartons.” That strikes me. Until he started laughing. Aster, you sick bastard. “How are you holding up over there, my old friend?” His smile is almost palpable through the phone. It's good to know that I haven't been forgotten.

“I've been well, Aster. Got myself situated with a simple job and a nice place on the outskirts of the city.” I don't know if I should tell him just yet.

“Oh? Heh, you'll have to give me a tour some day! I'd love to see your new place.”
“That's actually what I was calling about. I need someone to talk to, is there a chance you could come over this afternoon?” Here come's the hardest part...

“This afternoon? Sudden, don't you think, Briar? ...Hm. Alright. I've got nothin' better to do. Pass me the address and I'll be right over.” Aster hangs up. He was never good with goodbyes. Not just on the phone either. In fact, I don't even remember saying goodbye to him... Yet, he's still coming. I'm feeling better already.

…

Not again. There's that sound again. Papers ruffling. No... This has to stop. I close my eyes. Please, not now... I open my eyes. No papers. Thank God. My phone starts to vibrate. Oh right, the address. I flip it open. Strange, that isn't Aster's number. In fact all it says is “34”. Must be the wrong number. Whatever, I'll read it anyway.
“REALIZATION.”

Oh God... What are you trying to tell me?! I text back. W...h...o...a...r...e...y...o...u...?
An immediate response.

“REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION. REALIZATION..."

It went on forever. I need Aster... I need someone to talk to... What the hell is going on...”