Centuries

Gerard

I'm woken by sobbing. Sleepily, I look at my clock to see it's just gone eleven. 

"No! It can't happen yet!" Patrick screams and I remember last night. I run downstairs, stopping at the bottom to see Brendon trying to comfort Patrick as Houdini lays on the sofa. I feel a lump form in my throat as I realise Houdini's not breathing. 

"He's just old, that's all"

I silently walk over to the dog and kneel in front of him. 

"He's just sleeping"  I think over and over.

I raise a shaking hand to his soft fur and stroke the dog. I squeeze my eyes shut and bury my face in Houdini's coat, letting the silent tears fall. 

Why? Why'd this have to happen?

I feel Patrick and Brendon watching me silently as I gather the dog in my arms and cradle him on my lap. 

"I-it had to happen so-someday." Patrick hugs us both, crying just as much as me. 

Not yet

"I know Gee, i know," He nods, "How about we find another dog, equally as special as Houdini? You can have one too, it's what Houdini would have wanted." 

I nod numbly as Brendon takes Houdini from us. 

"Come on Gee," Patrick stands up, wipes away his tears then offers a hand to help me up. I take it and hug him tightly. 

Where will we find them? 

"The dog shelter of course. Rescue dogs are in more need," Patrick strokes my hair soothingly and I nod.

Let's go then.

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ohmygod! I'm crying so much right now! Why did I have to do that??????????