It's like it was yesterday. You were smiling, and so was I. We were so happy. I can remember it perfectly. You had found a small kitten at recess, and we named him Cookie. You were his dad and I his mom. Of course, that was only in my mind. But, it was nice taking care of Cookie with you. That is, for the ten minutes we had him.
It was then time to go inside. We didn't have the same teacher, but we still loved to meet right outside the doors, hug, and go into our own rooms. For all of class, I would stare at the clock, begging it to move faster just so I could feel your warm, protective arms around me.
But, that day was different. As soon as I took my seat, it happened. The speaker came on and announced we were going into lockdown. I thought it was just a drill, so I didn't really care. I went to the closet like everyone else, and we sat there quietly. I thought of you and your goofy charm.
Then I heard the gunshots. Two of them. Right next door. In your classroom. They were all so scared. But I wasn't. I was sure you were okay.
Two hours later, we were allowed out of the lockdown, but the teacher kept us all in the room. When she wasn't looking, I slipped into the hall. I went to your classroom and peeked into the empty room. I saw blood everywhere. On the tables, the walls, the floor, and even the white ceiling were now a sickening red color.
I saw your bag and grabbed it. Slinging it over my shoulder, I ran down the hallway to the lobby. I saw your class and stopped running. I couldn't see you. I asked around, but no one answered me.
Then I saw the paramedics carrying two stretchers. I walked over as they set the stretchers on the floor. All of the kids in your class went to the gym. All of them but you. When the paramedics talked to the principal, I peeked under the white cloths covering the stretchers.
Your pale face stared up at me. Not smiling, not laughing, not even blinking. You were gone. On the other stretcher laid the body of your killer. I hated that man so much. He had no reason other than pure cruelty. He took your life, and for what? Pleasure?
They picked me up and brought me to the gym with everyone else. The whole school was there. Before the doors closed, I saw them lift your stretcher into an ambulance right next to your killer. It had made me so angry.
It's been seven years, now. Since your death. Since your murder. I've been crying for hours. I miss you so much. I have in my hand the newspaper from the day after you died. It's about the school shooting. You were the only kid to die. It's not fair.
I want to see you again. In my hand, I have a pistol. Let's play a game. It's called "The Happiness Game." The rules are simple. Aim, shoot, die. I wonder what Heaven's like. Is it warm and sunny? Are there any games? You've always loved games.
Well, this is it. I aim for my temple and pull the trigger with trembling hands. It all goes black.
I'll see you soon, friend.
