More Than an Axe, More Than a Mask

What We Once Had

~Present time~

"Sammy don't do this. You must remember who you are, who we were. This isn't what Joey wanted, you know that." I pleaded in horror as Sammy's axe froze mid swing just a hair away from hitting Henry.

"Don't mention that treacherous tyrant's name ever again. He lied to us, he deceived us. He put our heads on the chopping block, and thats exactly what I will do to him. To him, and to all of his little sheep puppets!" Sammy rose his voice with eyes locked onto Henry like a predator ready to make his kill.

"No Sammy! You can't! If Henry's gone they'll kill you for sure! I need you, and" I hesitated, "so does our baby." Uh oh, maybe this wasn't the best time to mention that.

"Baby?" He replied, his voice now softer and calmer. Relieved by his change in tone I simply nodded in confirmation.

The loudest silence I've ever known now pierced the air as if time itself had stopped. Our world was crumbling around us, and everyday he was growing darker. I could see it and I feared it. Sammy looked back at me, I could hear desperation in his voice when he finally said, "We must protect her. We can't let this dark world consume her. I promise, I won't let anything happen to either of you. I will avenge our family for the destruction that Joey created."

Sammy walked back to me as if he forgot he were about to bring an end Henry. He took my hand and whispered once again, "I will protect both of you, always." For the first time in what felt like an eternity, I saw through that mask of his. I could see the man I married. He was more than a mask and axe, he was the man I loved long before our world fell to pieces.

~36 months earlier~

"The answer's yes. When can you start?" Joey asked as soon as I picked up my phone.

"That's great! I can start as soon as you want!" I answered excitedly. This job is a dream. I can't believe I may actually get to make a career out of something I love.

"Alrighty then, perfect! You start tomorrow at 8:00. You'll want to report directly to the Art department. See you then." *end call*

I was so ecstatic, nervous, and anxious. To be hired as an artist for the show was a huge accomplishment for someone with my limited experience. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough.