HERE

chapter 1

Four days.

That's how long I've been in the institution. I still haven't been able to find an exit, let alone a window or even a moment to go exploring.

Luke is with me most of the day, but what surprises me even more is the fact that Calum never leaves my side for even a moment.

I'm not sure what Calum's fascination with me is, but the other boy is like my shadow—always there as soon as I turn around. From what I gathered, Calum was a little paranoid (little being an understatement) and maybe he was potentially befriending me as a "keep your friends close but enemies closer" thing. That's one thought.

Also, he and Luke had gotten into a fight, apparently. It seems like Luke and Calum are best friends—and they are really the only people I have met here, so it makes sense—and the two had gotten into an argument. After that, I had to split up my time between the two, and one of them was always following me wherever I went. If I was in my room, Luke flopped next to me and talked my ear off about anything and everything. When I went to the dining room, Calum was there, silently being in my space.

Honestly, I was nervous to speak to Calum much. I knew from hearing the fight that Calum got defensive very easily and it was better for me to just stay silent.

When Calum spoke, he spoke quickly, like if he took a pause for a breath, someone was going to speak over him and accuse him of something. He often ended conversations breathlessly, because he just spoke until he couldn't anymore. It was kind of unnerving at first, but I got used to it.

Calum is joining me for breakfast on my fourth day. For some reason, Luke isn't there yet, and Calum is the one who brings me the tray.

"Thank you," I quietly say, nodding my head at the boy. He looks at me like he isn't expecting kindness and just nods back, sitting hunched over almost to protect his food.

Calum begins eating in his usual manner: quickly, like he's afraid someone is going to take it from him. I look around, not noticing anyone else in the vicinity, but I leave him alone. He doesn't need me picking on him.

I wish I knew why I was here. I know I'm not sick, I just know it. I'm not paranoid or anxious or depressed. There's nothing wrong with my home life, I've gone through no trauma. I'm just a regular kid, and I want to go home.

I know Luke has walked into the room when Calum huffs and rolls his eyes at his toast.

"Hello, Liar. I'm so glad you could join us today," he mutters, playing with the bacon and eggs on his plate.

"I'm not a liar!" Luke whines, pausing in front of the table with his tray in his hands. "I'm not Calum, just believe me,"

"Can't believe a liar, saw it with my own two eyes. Those are my best and truest account of events, Luke, you know that,"

Luke nods sadly, like that makes sense to him and turns away from the other boy. I'm not sure what Calum means and why they're fighting to begin with but I don't want to get involved.

"I just wish you could trust me," A small tear falls from Luke's eyes, unknown to his best friend. I see through it though, and feel bad that their little argument is causing such a big riff in their friendship.

"Can't trust a liar," Calum speaks after a few moments, standing from his chair. "Here, I'm leaving so you can sit with him," he looks at me and nods without smiling. I just sit, staring at him as he walks out of the room, plate practically untouched as Luke takes his place.

"Hi Ash!" Luke grins cheerfully. "What are you up to?"

Apparently whiplash, I think, confused to how Luke could be so upset moments before and now happy, like nothing has happened.

"Before breakfast I was painting. Painting another mural on my bedroom wall, it was nice. Do you like to paint?"

I shrug.

"Never have before,"

"You should try it sometimes. Usually Calum and I..." he frowns and cuts himself off.

"Maybe I'll try with you," I offer, hoping it'll make him feel better.

A smile lights up his face.

"Gee, Ashy! That would be so fun! Let me tell you what my mural is about," he launches into a story about the thoughts that went into his painting. I wasn't super interested, but maybe by befriending him and staying in his good graces, I can get him to give me some information on how to get out of here. I have to get out of here.

***

How's life? I got nothing, we're just getting into the start of this 🤩 if you have any theories or thoughts I'd LOVE to hear them!! Love yall

~ashtonfortherwin