BILLET-DOUX ✦ CLASSIC ROCK

12 - syd barrett ²

Since Christmas is fast approaching, I figured that I should do a winter-themed fic with Syd!
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The bitter cold cut through the thin folds of your jacket as you trailed down the streets. The shop windows were lit up in festive cheer, hanging glittering baubles and pine garlands to celebrate the change in season.

Each window drew your eye, fascinating you with moving dolls and train sets. Christmas hadn't changed since you were a child, but you tended to look at it with something akin to a nostalgic longing for a past time. It wouldn't ever be the same for you.

You pulled the collar of your coat closer to you, hoping to stave off the bitter wind. Foolishly, you had forgone gloves when you left your flat and your fingers were stiff and icy.

This was supposed to be a short walk from your place to a nearby park. A terrible idea in the dismal weather, but Syd had arranged it, so you had gone without complaint. Now you were wishing that you'd brought along a scarf or even an extra jacket.

You hoped Syd had dressed warmly. He had been acting more and more erratic as of late, and you worried for him. The last thing you wanted was for Syd to get hurt.

It was difficult for you to check on him often, as you had work and school. Syd lived across town from you, farther than a thirty minute trip by bus. He was often sequestered away these days, refusing to see anyone.

You were shocked when you received a letter by post. The writing itself was nearly illegible in its looping, messy cursive. It was a request to see you in a week's time. In the park. The rest was rambling, pleading lines. He couldn't find his way without you. He missed you terribly.

Syd's letter broke your heart, so you agreed to come. You still loved him, no matter how he was acting. You feared that you always would. No one could replace Syd.

You arrived at the local park in a fog of apprehension. Initially, you had been so sure of yourself. Now, you worried it was a mistake. Was Syd even here?

The rusted gate gave way under your hands as you entered, creaking loud enough to alert a gaggle of birds nearby who cawed and flew off. Inside, the park was largely empty due to the cold temperatures. The benches and winding trails remained desolate and empty; a set of children's swings banged together in the wind.

Syd had asked you to meet him at noon and it was nearly 12:30. You scanned the expanse of the park again and again, finally landing on a figure wandering in the distance. Recognizing the mess of curly hair instantly, you broke out into a jog to catch up.

By the time you made it to a small grove of trees tucked away towards the outskirts of the enclosure, you were out of breath and panting quietly. Syd was standing beneath a larger oak tree, clad in black with his head downturned and studying the ground.

You didn't want to interrupt whatever was running through his head, so you waited a few feet away to give Syd some semblance of privacy. He barely acknowledged your presence, picking at the cuff of his greatcoat.

When you just couldn't wait any longer, you crept closer. "Syd?"

The sound of your voice broke him out of whatever daze he found himself in. Syd startled to attention, blinking a few times to right himself. The kohl around his eyes was smeared and his dark hair was in matted tangles across his face.