AFTER YOU

CHAPTER I: THE PREFACE.

THE PRESENT

"But there's this fear of not being in love anymore," tears streamed from my eyes. "No matter how many times I try to smile, the pain will never end. It's stuck in the tragedy's loop." Tears streamed down the chin to the glass of water.

"See, you've always been a role model for those around you. Your friends, family, and colleagues are always with you." She gently moved her hand towards me and took my hand. "I'm with you."

I immediately drew back my hand. The heart rate accelerated too quickly. Tears stopped falling. The environment changed abruptly. I took a deep breath. I looked up and said, "No matter how many times I try, this will always be inside my nerves. No coworkers, friends, or family can help."

"But remember those who have supported you throughout your life. You can't get stuck in the past and forget about the present and future that awaits you." As she spoke, the wind blew from my back.

"Past, past, past." I cried out loudly. Everyone seated around me looked at me with surprise and confusion, as if some maniac had approached them.

"Calm down! This is a public place."

"Look, there is only one present for me. There is no future. I don't want to live any longer, do you understand?" I lowered my voice a bit took the cigarette from the pocket of my jacket. "Life feels like suffering. I want to die and be at peace." I said, frustrated and angry, looking for the lighter in my pocket.

"Peace!?" She inquired, confused. "That too after you die?" She giggled annoyingly. "People like you believe it's a joke?" She sounded serious. "Be happy and grateful that you have a life; know that it is valuable."

"Ha! Valuable. Where's it's value? I have none." I gave an intense smile.

"Ah! Whatever, there is no point in arguing with you. Better I go to the restroom and get back quickly."