Tattooed Emotions

9

Dan

Why did it keep happening?

It was like I couldn't stop myself from walking into Philip. Like I was asking for him to beat me up.

Each day I hid out in the school library at lunch with Louise, trying to avoid Philip and his gang.

"I hate them. All of them. They're pricks." Louise gritted her teeth, "Especially Philip."

I found myself feeling defensive over Philip. My stomach flipped and my nails dug into the pages of my open book.
But the feeling was fake. Stockholm syndrome, right? I pushed it away, nodding at Louise.
"They're all idiots."

***

It was wednesday after school, and as usual I stayed back a bit later to avoid Philip. When I thought it was safe, I flung my backpack onto my shoulders and emerged from the bathroom stall.

I listened hard, trying to hear someone lurking, waiting.

But it was silent.

I let out a breath, walking out of the building.

"You took your time."

For goodness sake. Why? It was over an hour since the school day had ended!

I sped up, not looking behind me. I just wanted to get away. I didn't need this today.

"Hey, Dan. I just want to talk." He grabbed my arm, and I sucked in my breath through my teeth as I felt his nails dig into fresh cuts on my skin.

"Please get away from me. I haven't done anything." My voice sounded quiet compared to his confidence.

"Dan, I don't want to hurt you. Please just let me help you."

I finally turned to look at him, staring at his cheek. The flickering flame reminded me of my own misfortune. His burning passion was apparent through his tattoo and in his eyes, but that didn't help me to figure out his motivation.

I wanted to trust him.

I wanted to let him into my life.

But it was Philip.

I knew he was only looking to hurt me.

That's just who he was.

And people never change.