True Nature

A Hitch In The Plan

As we walk, I notice a teenage girl, probably about 16, eyeing me down. Is she one of theirs? Having disguised myself in a more human form, I hope it's just a coincidence. I hope I don't have to show Lin what I'm really capable of. She begins her approach. Curse the gods! So soon after their last victim? I tell Lin to go somewhere else. "But why Sam? I thought you said to stick by you." "I said move" I snap. I'm immediately filled with regret as his eyes fill with tears. But I don't have time to concern myself with that. I just need to know he's safe. In a softer tone, I instruct him to go into a nearby bakery and wait for me. I prepare myself for combat. I'm confident in my ability to defeat the child. My concern is anyone who may intervene. Suddenly the girl breaks into a sprint. "Nothing flashy. Just kill her. You have to protect Lin." I tell myself. I'm ready to strike her when she cries out "Dad!" I'm instantly taken off guard. She rushes into my arms. "Dad I've missed you so much! Where did you go?! I thought you ran away! I have to tell mom!" "NO!" I can't have her family thinking I'm her father. It wouldn't be right. She's instantly taken aback. "But why? Don't you want to see mom again?" I have to tell her who I am. I call Lin over. The second she sees him her eyes are filled with confusion and then hurt. "So... it was all for some other woman? You let me and Tommy endure all of mom's shitty ass boyfriends for some woman? Not only that but you have another son?! What about Tommy?!" Her continued ranting is drawing attention. "Please just come with me. I'll explain everything. Alright?" She flares back up "There's nothing to explain! You're a dirty, lying, family abandoning asshole!" I've had enough of her scolding. "QUIET!" She instantly softens. "Come with me and I will explain everything. But first you need to stop screaming in the middle of the shopping center." She looks down defeated yet still angry. "Alright."