Somewhere In Brooklyn

26 - November 29

Earlier, I tried to stay late as possible so I wouldn't have to ride the train with you. So you wouldn't see my shitty, beaten-up face.

But my eyes widened in shock to see you standing there, waiting with a box of donuts in your hand. Yours widened probably because of the bruises on my face and the glamorous polka dots bandaid on my nose.

"Let me guess, I should see the other guy?" you asked, wincing when you brought up your hand to touch my bandaged nose.

At first, I was confused because you were talking to me. But then I chuckled when you stuck out your tongue. Oh god, I chuckled. It came off as dry. It's been a long time since I've laughed and I'm not used to it.

While walking to the train, you kept on looking back up at me and tripping a couple of times for not looking where you were going. I had to keep my hands planted inside the pocket of my hoodie because as much as I want to touch you, to keep you from falling, I don't want to trespass your boundaries.

On the third time though, a woman bumped into your shoulder and I rushed to grip your waist to stop you from spinning and from the possible downfall. Your side was pressed against my chest, I was afraid you could feel my heart beating too fast.

"L-look... look where y-you're going," I harshly said.

You nodded, your eyes wide and your breathing was short and heavy. At first, I thought I scared you but then you flashed a toothy grin and apologized before pushing yourself away from me and skipping to the train like a kid. I didn't know if I should catch up to you but you looked back and tilted your head, confused, when you saw me still standing there. You ran back and grabbed my wrist, dragging me.

"I'm so sorry about that, I'm really clumsy. I wasn't looking where I was going. I was distracted by your eyes. Wait, no! I mean, it's just the last time I saw you, your face was red from all the crying and now you're sporting a shiner, so... thanks for catching me." I only nodded in response and gave you a small smile. "Anyway, what happened?"

I blinked, unsure if I heard your last question right. Then you pointed at my face and I blinked again. And I did it again and again.

"I g-got in uh, a f-fight... w-with my dad. My dad." I closed my eyes after saying that, frustrated at the fact that I couldn't speak properly to you.

You nodded, opening the box of donuts and took a whole chocobutternut munchkin in your mouth. You spoke even though your mouth was still full. "What did you do? Did you fought back? Did you win?"

Shaking my head, I smirked when I replied, "N-no. I... I hurt his e-g-go th-though."

"That's a win." You smiled proudly, offering me donuts.