Where I'd Gone ⌲ River Phoenix ((COMPLETED))

Refrain

April 22, 1988

Through the weeks Max would constantly try to talk to me, saying that he finds my repulsion to him quite attractive. I'd keep ignoring him though.

But today is my birthday. 17. Can't believe how fast this year went by. I got a Running on Empty in the mail today, and also a note from River, saying

Sorry about your movie date with Max. Here's Running on Empty, I hope you enjoy it ...Because I'd always thought I'd see you again...
(Peace + love) River Jude Phoenix.

Unfortunately, River couldn't come over, but we did talk over the phone.

C: Thank you so much for Running on Empty.

R: No problem. I really wanted you to see it. There's a song we danced to and I couldn't stop thinking about you.

C: I can't wait to see it. How's Gainesville?

R: It's great! I'm finally able to start a band and I'm super excited!

C: That's great... Aleka's Attic, right?

R: Yes, and I put some signs around the city to find some recruits. I found this bassist named Josh, violinist Tim, and a drummer named Joshua! My dream of finally having a band is coming true.

C: Aleka's Attic huh? I never thought you'd actually go through with it. It's a hard business out there, you know.

R: Yeah. I know. Doesn't mean it's going to crush my determination though.

C: That's good, when's your first gig?

R: My mom is booking us some gigs next week!

C: Well whenever it is, I'll be in the front row cheering you on!

R: Our soonest one this week is on April 29. You have to come.

C: You're in luck, it's spring break next week for me so I'm able to come down.

R: Sounds good.

River and I talked thoroughly through the rest of the night, mostly about how he came to thinking about Aleka. Aleka was an obvious stand-in for River, who yearned to inspire the world. I genuinely feel like he'll only be able to achieve that dream by dying. . . Only then he'll be human; only then he'll be free.

April 29, 1988

The flight was 6 hours long and River said he'd be there as soon as I got off the plane. So I walked around, only thinking about him. His warm, cozy embrace with the aroma of his earthy scent being carried in the air.

And there he was. His hair was notably longer and he wore circle glasses that made him look more sophisticated. He also wore a dark blazer folded neatly on top of a green flannel. He looked so different. So free-spirited; soft-spoken.

"River!" I screeched with excitement as my body collided with his. His long soft hair glided along my neck and his hand tightened around my waist; bringing me close.

The last time I saw River was at the strip, when I went with Charlie. I felt bad not spending any time with him.

"I missed you so much," he mumbled into our hug.