Strawberry Flavoured

22

"You know what I miss most about them?" We were now lying on our backs, staring at the stars shining above us.

"Hm?" I hummed.

"Their smiles. My mom was a gorgeous woman, with mysterious eyes, straight teeth and all. Whenever she smiled, she got a dimple in her left cheek and her eyes would squeeze nearly shut. My dad was a strong, tall man. His smile was powerful, with crinkles around his eyes. My sister's puffy cheeks would become even rounder when she smiled, her eyes squeezing together - just like with my mom. My sister and mom looked so much alike, it's scary. You know, they were genuine people, humble above all. They - they didn't deserve to die. It should've been me instead of them." You sighed. I couldn't see your face but I knew you were on the edge of crying again.

"Don't say that." It was the first time I spoke in a while and my voice was croaky.

"It's the truth," you replied.

"Is - is that why you smoke?"

I knew I was right, because you stayed silent for way too long.