Keia

Chapter 35: Final Loop (Keia)

There was a soft and warm feeling in my chest when I opened my eyes. When I looked around, I found myself in a dark street lit up by cars and city lights. There was no desk, and I didn't feel afraid. 

For the first time, I didn't feel afraid.

I look down at my hands and close my eyes. This will be the last one, I will make sure things come to an end here. My footsteps crunch gravel beneath me with each step, as if my very steps affected the earth around me. For the first time, I see something to hold onto. The possibility of a happy ending. If I can stop things from ending the way they have in the past, I can find a happy ending with the people who love me. I can look up from my feet and get to know Andy. My friendship with Autumn can be repaired. I look up into the night sky and take one last deep breath before I decide to take action and move forward with my plans. 

First thing was first, I had to find a way to defend myself. I know that the thing that comes after me if I try to tell somebody what's going on can be affected when I swing at it. Kicking it straight in the jaw was proof enough of that. If I had an actual weapon to defend myself with, maybe I can get the help I need to put a stop to this. 

"Hey! Shouldn't you be at home? Curfew is in about 10 minutes" an old shopkeeper calls out to me. He appeared to be wrapping up for the day, gathering up his belongings, and making his way into his truck. A quick glance at the store behind him made my eyes light up a bit. 

"I... had to come buy something for my younger brother," I said, trying my best to sound sincere. The man sighs a bit, rolling his eyes he pushes open the door and invites me inside. 

"What were you looking for?" The shopkeeper grumbles as he makes his way to the counter. I walk up to the back of the display window and point at the baseball bat standing proudly in the spotlight.

"One of these would do nicely." I say.