In The Gray

*

Lonely footsteps echoed across the alley walls. They were uneven and loud. They continued their forlorn journey towards the end of the alley, where a single tree stood, against the odds, growing and pushing through the concrete.

The branches were perfect for climbing, and they dark canopy of leaves was perfect for hiding. They footsteps slowed as they approached the tree. A hand grabbed the first branch, hoisting up the rest of the body. As the sun beamed down on the earth, a personal rainstorm fell from a girl's eyes, hitting the tree leaves softly. Soft hiccups bubbled out of her as she drew a knife out of her belt.

Carefully, she placed it against her wrist as the tears continued to flow and her chocolate covered eyes were the epitome of defeat. She pulled the knife across her skin quickly, ripping it apart and leaving a thin but growing line of blood, soon to be a scar, joining the others.

 She leaned her head back against the rough bark of the tree, wishing things were different. Her arm went limp, dropping the knife.

As the knife tip hit the cement, the sun flickered. She was too exhausted to care. The sun's light started dimming until it was completely out, become something like a figment of her imagination. A rush of sound started, starting with screams, followed by helicopter blades, and suddenly, silence. Her eyes were closed and a solitary drop of blood hit the pavement below her, as her body followed limply, unaware, just like everyone else.