TOO YOUNG TO BE SO SAD(ECCEDENTESIAST)

NINE

We stood before a house that seemed more haunted than inhabitable, its exterior untouched by human presence for what felt like a century. There was an eerie aura about the place.

Curiosity got the best of me as I asked, "What are we doing here?"

"Home," he replied simply, and with a sense of purpose, he entered the house. I followed suit, and to my surprise, the interior presented a stark contrast to the neglected exterior—it was impeccably decorated and felt secure.

He couldn't help but notice my reaction, offering me a seat and making me feel right at home.

"So, you live here?" I inquired.

"Yeah," he confirmed, prompting me to comment, "It's oddly charming. Suits you."

His laughter filled the room, and he handed me a drink. I couldn't resist a jest, asking, "You didn't sneak anything into this, did you?"

We whiled away the hours with him engrossed in a PS5 game, playing Izzy's dream game, Call of Duty. I watched, bemused by his gaming skills.

After a few hours, he paused the game, his eyes locking onto me with an expression of surprise and concern.

"You didn't even thank me," he pointed out.

"For what?" I inquired.

"For saving your skin, man. You could have been in deep trouble."

I chuckled, and he explained how he'd come to my aid, insisting it wasn't stalking but rather a chance encounter.

Our conversation shifted to work, and we delved into the challenges we faced, sharing anecdotes about colleagues who tried to impress our boss.

Time slipped away, and I received a text from Izzy, clearly not pleased about my late return.

I checked the time; it was well past 8 pm. "I've got to go," I hurriedly packed my belongings. He kindly offered to drop me off, and I accepted his offer.

"Thanks for the ride," I expressed my gratitude as he parked a bit away from our driveway.

"Anytime," he replied.

"And thanks for coming to my rescue."

"It took you a while to say that," he smiled as I opened the car door. "By the way, what's your name?" It was an impulsive question, but he had made me feel like the world wasn't as bleak as I'd imagined, and I wanted to know more.

"I'm George," he replied.

"George," I repeated with a smile, then waved as I walked away, heading towards my house.

Inside the house, I was met with an annoyed Izzy, ready to vent her frustration, but I managed to ease her temper with a hug before she could explode.

"I'm sorry," I said, hugging her tightly. She pulled away, asking where I had been.

"Just having some fun, I guess," I replied.

"With who? You will got no friends, Star," she pointed out.

"I do now."

"I guess," I added with a grin, finding amusement in her confusion, which only deepened as I laughed.

"You're such a character!" she exclaimed, sounding like an exasperated mother, and headed upstairs. I followed her, persistently linking arms with her despite her attempts to shake me off.

I stood under the hot shower, being cautious not to dislodge the bandage he insisted I keep on. Some might call it insignificant, but for me, it was a moment of significance. When I stepped out, examining my faint scars, an unexpected feeling of reassurance replaced my usual desperation to conceal them.