Take a chance | mikey

16

Draken struggled to his feet, clutching his wound tightly.

"Hina, take them with you and run away," he ordered, his voice firm despite the pain.

"But, Takemichi-kun..." Hina's voice trembled, her eyes wide with fear and concern.

Takemichi managed a smile, trying to reassure her. "We'll handle this ourselves somehow."

Hina smiled weakly and nodded. 

"Let's go, Yuri-chan, Emma-chan."

As Hina pulled us along, I found myself running, my feet moving almost automatically. But deep down, a gnawing feeling started to take over.

Why am I running? I know I can stay and fight.

The fear was like this knot in my chest, tightening until it hurt. I wanted to help, to turn around and stand with them, but instead, I'm here, running away like some coward. What's wrong with me? Why can't I just stop and face it like Takemichi and Draken? Am I really this pathetic?

What if I mess up? What if I'm not strong enough? 

I used to be tough, but now... I don't even know how to be that person anymore. It's like I've lost it, like I don't have that fight in me. Maybe I'm just a coward, too scared to do what needs to be done.

I felt my feet pounding against the pavement as we ran, my mind racing faster than my legs. I wanted to help, but I was afraid. And that fear kept me running.

NO.

I can't just run.

The thought hit me like a brick wall, and I stopped in my tracks, yanking my hand out of Hina's grasp. She turned back, her eyes wide with confusion and worry.

"I'll catch up with you guys later. Go direct the ambulance, quick!" I called out, my voice trembling, but I didn't give her time to argue.

"YURI ITS DANGEROUS! Hina already called—"

But I didn't listen. I had to go back. I had to do something. I took off running in the opposite direction, my heart pounding in my chest for a different reason now. I can't just leave them.