God Help Us

Past Love & Lost Hearts


PART 1

"Justin.. I love you.."
"Well.. You just can't"
"How am I suppose to do that!?"
Justin stays silent
"HUH!? How do you expect me to just stop loving you?"
"I don't know.."
Justin looks away
"Exactly. You want me to move on. You want me to be happy. But what if I was happy with you?.."
"I'm sorry Teiya.. This.. Us.. We? It just can't be."
"I guess so.."
Teiya looks at Justin with tears in her eyes
Justin lays his head on Teiya's head
"One last time?"
Teiya lays her head on Justin's shoulder
They stay there for what seemed like an eternity.
Justin breaks the silence and says, "I'm sorry.."
There's a sound of regret in his voice
"Sorry isn't enough to fix a broken heart."
Teiya turns around and walks away slowly while she wipes the tears from her face
Justin tries to stop her and hesitates a bit.
He wants to explain that he can't stop his feelings for "her" too. But he doesn't. He just watched as the girl he used to love just walked out of his life.

PART 2

December 22, 2024
11:30 AM
13 degrees F
NYC, New York

POV: Teiya

2 days before

I wake up to the sound of birds chirping and soon realizing that it was just my alarm. I open my eyes and see him. The guy I have been with for officially 5 years of my life. Justin. He's 6 feet 5 inches and is pretty well built. Of course he would be since he works at an athletic club. I kick him and tell him to wake up. Of course he groans because he is not a "morning" person. It's like any other morning. Wake up, eat eggs and rice for breakfast, get ready and all that jazz. But today it was a little different. 5 years ago today, was when me a Justin were officially "official." I went over to Alison's (my adorable Asian best friend since Kindergarden) apartment and of course I see her studying for her college exams. The bright yellow walls, papers on the ground and the smell of coffee is how the apartment usually seems. I'm over at Ali's house because Justin told me she needed me for "important school stuff" which is probably code for "Alison keeping you occupied while I do other things." I walk over and spook her. She screams and all her books fall to the ground. She mutters," Ugh.. You are welcome into my home anytime.." We both laugh. She's pretty tiny,  I would say pretty smart and works so hard just to get good grades. Her big glasses cover most of her face other than her bright smile. About 3 hours later of hearing Alison practice her presentation over and over and over again we finally leave.
"Wrap this handkerchief around your head."
"Why?"
"Since I'm driving and I can't do it for you. Duh?"
"Uh.. Okay?"

I hear the car stop and the door open. Alison giggles like she always does and leads me. I suddenly feel goosebumps on my arm. It's freezing.  Alison takes off my blind fold and I see an ice rink. With that I see a trail of bright red rose petals leading to the man I'm deeply in love with. Alison winks at me and says,
"I'll leave you two.."
I ask him, "Why did you bring me here? You know I have never skated before in my life."
"Because we are celebrating our first 5 years together we could do another first  thing together." He says enchanting me with his voice. It's like he has a spell on me.
I feel a slight heat rise to my cheeks. He leads me in the crowd of skaters then he suddenly stops.
"Are..you okay," I ask still cold.
"Yeah.."
We keep skating, talking and laughing. Then he stops again, but this time I see who he is looking at.
"Look," I say, "It's.."
"Nina," he finished my sentence.

PART 3

7 years before

Flashback to January 9, 2017
1st day back from Christmas Break

POV: Justin

"JUSTINN!!"
I hear an annoying scream calling my name. It's just Nina.
"Yes Nina," I say back.
"How was your Christmas break?"
"Eh nothing special. How about you?"
"Well.." She starts with a bragging tone in her voice.
"Blah.. Blah.... Blah....."
I tone her out and just nod. She's so cute when she talks I thought to myself. Her shiny black hair, tight figure and lean body always draws me to her. But of course, we are just "friends.." whatever that meant. After all she had a boyfriend. He went to St. Therese with us before. His name was Tyler. He was about the same height as me if not taller, fluffy hair, and a muscular body. What did he have that I didn't have also? We were both asian and liked watching anime like any other Asian guy.  So what's so special about him? After she was finished blabbering about some game, I pulled out a box. I forgot to give her. It was her Christmas present so better now then later right? It was a sterling silver necklace with a heart locket in it. I remember her looking through a magazine of some sort and her gazing over some  necklace that she said "Would look good with her skin tone." I asked to borrow the magazine to buy a gift for my mom but it was to buy the necklace for her. My plan was to give her the box and tell her to open it when she gets home. Knowing Nina, she will probably just open it right when I leave. As I walked away, when I gave it to her. I heard her gasp as she opened the box. I just walked away faster and forced down the blush rushing to my cheeks. The reason why I had this plan was not because of the necklace itself but because what was inside of it. "Hope you love it like I love you"

Part 4

Back to present day
December 22, 2024
POV: Justin

"Nina.."
Right away my mind flashes back to the night of Tyler's funeral. He got in a horrible car crash saving Nina's life. When they were driving to get Frozen Yogurt together, a car drove straight into them. It hit the passenger seat, where Nina was sitting. Tyler immediately jumped out of his seat to protect Nina. His last words were "I love...." The car's glass stabbed him in the heart which would have killed Nina.  At the funeral, Nina was there, but different. There wasn't the energetic feeling when you stand around her. Her eyes were puffy and red which were probably from crying. Even when looking like this. She is still one of the most gorgeous looking girls I've ever seen. And I hated seeing her like this. When she spoke all she said were "I love you too.." And continued sobs. Over the last few weeks she wasn't the same Nina and I couldn't just force her to move on. So I just let this feeling go. And now I see her again. The same Nina. But more grown up. I can see she lost her original "Nina bob hair" and has her hair in loose waves. Her face looks as beautiful as ever and I'm in shock. Her cheek bones just.. like the same Nina. At this moment. This exact time. Exact minute. I realized that I'm still in love with her.

Part 5

POV: Nina

It was a chilly regular afternoon in NYC and I went weekly ice skating with my bestie, Marissa. She's about two inches shorter then me, brown leaning deep red hair, and a nice butt because of those squats though (insert winking emoji here). We usually never have time for this because of my day job at Animal Medical Care Hospital and Marissa working for the New York Daily Newspaper. But today I guess was kinda special. As we were skating I tried to do the tricks I used to be able to do but of course I fall right on my butt. We laugh as Marissa pulls me up then I pull her down with me. That just bring even more giggles right out of us. When skating I felt something familiar around me. Like an old friend.. So I stop and Marissa notices.
"Hey? What's wrong?"
I shake my head.
"Oh it's nothing.."
"Uh okay? Well.. Race you to the other side!"
And she zooms away. Of course I beat her because she isn't the best skater in the world. And there I see him.  My mind went straight to that exact time. When he died. Every time I see him, it reminds me of the pain. The stinging feeling. I can't help it. I loose my balance and fall on the ice.
"Nina!!"
I don't say anything back. I just see his lifeless face on my lap. All I hear is "I love.." over and over again in my head. Drowning me in my sorrow. Who does he love? Is it me? Is it me!? IS IT ME!? Who do you love? What were you going to say? This was just killing me inside. I faint on the ice with tears in my eyes.

Part 6

POV: Teiya

"Nina.."
I was kinda weirded out on how he said her name but I just let it brush off my shoulder. I was about to skate off but I hear a thud. "What the hell was that?" I think to myself. The next thing I know Justin isn't with me anymore. I can't find him anywhere.
"Justin," I yell. I see him crouched on his knees.. with a girl on his lap. I tried to skate over fast but it didn't work out well. I fell about 3 times and kinda gave up so I just crawled. I see Nina in Justin's arms. My heart starts beating fast. What. Is. Happening. Suddenly I hear people yelling. "Someone call 911"
"Hurry!!"
"Nina. Nina. Nina!! Wake up! Please!! "
It was a familiar voice. My eyes look for where it came from. It was Marissa. I haven't seen her in so long. She looks the same. She grew out her short bob and had her hair in a sleek but stylish pony. No hair out of place. I skate  carefully to her.
"What happened," I asked.
"Idk.." I can feel like she's distant. Not fully "with" me.
"I haven't seen you since Ty.." I try to eat up my words but it didn't work.
"Since Tyler died." She finished my sentence and I could feel deep pain in her voice.
"Not again." She whispers. "Not again."
 I turn to where Nina laid. Still in Justin's arms. This was again kinda bothering me but I know they were good friends, well like best friends before.

 Suddenly I hear sirens. An ambulance comes and picks up Nina. Justin drives us to the hospital Nina was staying. He doesn't say one word in the car ride. When we get there, he rushes to the front desk and asks where the patient "Nina Dang" was. She tells us she was in room 146 on the seconds floor. Justin literally sprints to the room and doesn't even wait for me to catch up. As I got there to the room hardly catching my breath I see Justin sitting beside Nina's bed. I walk in slowly. The smell of plastic and soap quickly fill my nostrils as I walk in. I ask the doctor what had happened. He told us,
"She is in a coma. We don't know where this came from or how long she will be in it. She has a minor concussion but nothing too serious. She was probably hit by shock which caused the coma."
I see Justin suck in his breath.  After sitting there for about an hour with out saying one word from me Justin or Marissa, I walk and sit next to the her seat.
"Sorry for what I said earlier. I didn't mea-"
"No it's fine. " she sounded emotionless.
"We can talk about this."
"Talk about what!?"
I stay silent.
"Talk about how my best friend is in a coma and 6 years ago today was the day Tyler died!?"
"I.. I..." I stutter. I'm speechless. What am I suppose to say?
"You what? You want to help support us? After 6 fucking years. Now you are trying to help. No. Not today."
"So what do you want me to!?" I plead.
"Just. Get. Out."
I stand up and walk away. As I do, I here her mutter,
"It's not like you cared about her anyway."

Part 7

December 22, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
7:28 PM
10 degrees F

POV: Alison

I got the phone call. I drop to the ground. Nina.. Nina.. I say this to my self over and over again. I was always a bit jealous of Nina. Getting the guy and all.. But felt bad for her too. The guy she was deeply in love with has died. She probably thinks I can't relate but I kinda can. She wasn't the only one that was suffering with the loss of Tyler. I shakily get up trying to relax myself. This whole situation reminded me when I got the call that he died. I did the same thing. Dropped to the ground. Repeated his name and kept myself from believing that he was dead. I was in complete denial. After I crossed that stage I cried. All the time. I was in pretty bad shape. Didn't go to school for like a few days but after it all I was okay.

I drive as fast as I can to get to the hospital. Since I'm training to become a doctor maybe I can use this to an advantage and try to help too right?

Once I get there I ask where Nina Dang was. She said room number 146 on the second floor. As I was walking in the hall way I heard screams.
"After 6 fucking years.... No not today."
"What do you-.....To do?"
The closed doors muffled the shouts but I could still hear the argument. I recognized the 2 voices immediately. One of them was one that I hear everyday. The other voice I haven't heard from in about 4 years. Marissa and Teiya. The next thing I know, Teiya storms out the room. I stop in my tracks, run and hide behind the corner. I here Teiya mumble saying,
"What do you mean? I never cared? Was I that much of a horrible friend?..." She was pacing back and forth up and down the hall way. Shaking hands and a trembling voice.
She was speaking to her self. Then she went to the bathroom. I use my sneaking skills and spy on her. Looking at herself in the mirror, she looks disgusted at herself. Either at her face itself or her actions. She wipes away the tears and sits in the waiting room. I leave her be and go inside Nina's room. As I walk in the doctor or nurse stops talking to Marissa while Justin just looks up at me with a forced smile on his face. I say with the same forced smile too,
"Heydays.. How is she doing?"
"Good," Marissa says still pretty upset.
"I think she's holding up pretty well to me."
I can see Justin is trying to keep the conversation light.
"What was umm.. all the yeah know.. screaming about?..."
I try to be a subtle as possible. Didn't work out to well.
"Nothing!"
Justin says right away trying to avoid any other conflict but it doesn't work.
"She was being inconsiderate and doesn't even care about Nina."
"If she didn't care why would she drive all the way over here?"
"I don't know. Probably Justin forced her but she shouldn't even be here in the first place."
"Okay.."
I speak to the doctor for a bit and he says there is really nothing he can do. All we can do right now is wait and wait for Nina to wake up.

PART 8

POV: Nina

"AHHHHH!! Where the hell am I? What is happening. Marissa? Marissa!? What am I doing here?"
"Take a deep breath Nina. You are beautiful and like awesome."
I take a moment to actually look around where I am.
I'm on Evergreen Pkwy. It's pretty cold. As I'm shivering I think,
"Tyler would have given me his jacket.."
And a slight rise of warmth reaches my cheeks. It's cloudy and it's raining.
"Why aren't I soaked," I ask my self. The rain was literally going right through my body pretending I didn't even exist. My first thought was that I was dead.
"Yup I'm dead. It's over."
If I'm dead then why am I even here? Shouldn't I be in heaven but if not heaven hell? I push the thought out of my mind.
Then out of the corner of my eye I see a green Honda HR-V. That was his car. I haven't seen it since the incident. Since that evening. Right at that moment I feel my legs numb. I see him. I rub my eyes in disbelief.
"Is it really him?"
He is alive, he is here, he is living, breathing and driving.... My heart stops and the realization hit me so hard that I fall back and my feet catch me. It can't be. Why am I here? Then I see me. But younger, still innocent and having that ugly bob. The whole thing was playing over as it was torturing me. This was playing with my heart like Khang playing the piano. I see the red Ford truck crushing the faultless car. I sprint to him as fast as my legs could carry me even though he doesn't know I'm here. The ear tearing sound of the cars crash was enough for droplets of water to fall right on my arm. I trudge to the crash site and I hear his voice of the last time. But this time different. He says,
"I love...

PART 9

December 23, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
2:32 AM
12 Degrees F

POV: Justin

I waited till everyone was asleep. Teiya had probably driven home already and Marissa was fast asleep on the ruff green chair on the right side of Nina's bed. She had a weird snore since it was high pitched. Alison wanted to be as supportive as possible so she said she would,
"Stay up all night."
She passed out at like 12:05.
"Good job Alison," I say as I roll my eyes.  Before Teiya left, I heard her and Alison have a conversation outside of Nina's room.
"Come on! You should stay with us. It can be like a sleepover like the good old days," Alison was trying to sound enthusiastic but even I know she wasn't the best liar.
"Nah.. I'll probably just leave now. Marissa probably doesn't want me here.."
"What! You don't know that!"
Teiya gives Alison the same look she gave to me when I asked her to move in with me.
Ah.. The good old days... She would have a semi crooked smile and her eyes would roll to the right.
After they were as still as logs I decided to get up from the wooden chair across from Nina's bed and kneel next to her. The monitor was beeping, the bed's legs were elevated a slight and her pulse was normal. As I was doing this I noticed that a piece of rice was stuck in her hair. I laughed to myself and brushed it off to the floor. Her hands were ice cold so I held them in mine.
"You probably don't hear me right now.. or you do and think I'm the dumbest person in the world. Well I guess.. I hope you wake up soon. And we still keep in touch once you do."
I pause struggling to find the words.
"I just really hope you wake up. Please.."
The next thing I know I feel water running down my face. I sob uncontrollably.
"Why am I crying?"
It sounded like a question for her but it was for me. What were these emotions i'm feeling. Don't I love Teiya? Don't I? For the next 12 minutes I sit there with tears dripping on her bed like a water fall. I try to stop sobbing but I can't. Feelings from the past years are draining out of me.

Every emotions you can think of are flowing out of me like a river. I pause. What is happening to me? I wipe the tears from my face. But I can't help but cry. I haven't cried so hard in my life. Every. Single. Bad thing that has ever happened to me coming back. One by one. Every memory of failure, rejection and death. I'm still holding Nina's hand in mine. Keeping it warm forever.. I laugh at myself for being so foolish.
"I'm crazy.." I say out loud.
"I AM GOING INSANE!"
"I know you are." I pause once again. I recognized that voice. Dominic.

PART 10

POV: Dominic

Okay okay. You are probably asking yourself,
"What does Dominic have to do in this story?"
Well actually, it's pretty simple. I. Am. Awesome. Lol Jkjk. But to be serious when I got the call that Nina was in the hospital I thought Marissa and them were playing a joke one me like they used to do. To either get me worried or to test how gullible I was. Once I actually figured out this was true, it reminded me of Tyler. Like everyone else, we were sad. One of our classmates, close friends, literally one of our family members has died. And actually, he died pretty heroically too. He died for the girl he loved! If that's not holy I don't know what is. I'm not one of those guys who really show their "feelings" too much, but when he died I kinda changed. I lived my life to the fullest I could be. I was school president of Central Catholic in my Senior year, was 2nd highest over all grade graduating to Alison and won state championship in lacrosse! I got into Columbia University where I got a full scholarship in medicine. At the moment I'm still in college and am working as an assistant at NYC HOSPITAL.
I really do have a pretty well thought out and successful life. All because of Tyler. I wasn't the nicest person to him but we were always buds.
I actually just got home from my 5 hour graveyard shift. They told me I had to come back to help with a patient with the name of "Nina Dang." I ask why? And if it was a joke. They said
"She has a minor concussion and is in a coma. The doctors don't know what is really causing this. And Do you really think I'd joke about this?"
I apologize and speed over to the hospital. Once I got there I here quiet sobs. I would recognize them from a mile away. It was Justin! But why was he crying? I stop once I hear him yell,
"I'm crazy! I AM GOING INSANE"
I felt like it was a good time for a grand entrance and say
"I know you are."
I can tell he was scared at first from the sudden response but relaxed once he knew it was me.
"Hey dude.. What's going on? Why are you yelling?"


"To be honest.. I really don't know."

He takes his hand through his hair. Messing it up.
"The whole thing with Nina and Teiya is really getting to me.. I guess"
When he said her name I almost forgot. Her. He had her but didn't truly love her... Like I do. We stay there silent. I look around the room I see Alison, all cuddled up in a ball on the chair. I see Marissa the same but more mature. And I see Nina with wires and strings all strapping her up to some machine. I walk over to the other side of Nina's bed where Marissa laid.
"Do you love Teiya?"
I'm shocked by how straight forward he is with the question. Do I? Yes. But can I tell him? I look at where Nina laid.
"Yes. I do.."
Again. We are silent. Not knowing who's going to say what next.
"Do you love Nina," I ask. "Like do you really love her?"
"I think so.."
"Then why don't you tell Teiya? She deserves the truth. She deserves better then what you are giving her."
"What does she deserve then? Huh?"
"You actually think that she will love you? You actually think that she will somehow love a boy like your self. You are nothing but a worthle-"
I punch him right in the face. Hard.
He is stricken by the blow.
"What is happening to you!? I thought we were friends, buddies? And now. You treat me like a peice of shit."
"Why are you even fucking here," he finally answers obviously frustrated.
"I'm here because Nina is my family."
Those were my last words to him until he walks away.

PART 11

December 23, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
7:45 AM
15 degrees F

POV: Alison

"Alison... Alison..."
"Yes..."
"Wake up.."
"Why...?"
"Well um.. everyone is here.."
Teiya says.
"Huh?"
I finally open my eyes. I see many people from our class standing in one room.
"Oh my gosh.. I'm so sorry. I didn't know everyone was here."
I rush up from my seat I guess too fast that I fall.
"Of course.."
I say to myself. Embarrass yourself I front of all of your friends. I guess I just pulled an Alison like they used to say.
I see Marissa, Luis, Dominic, Justin, Sunshine, Elyssia, Teiya and Giselle. After that very very awkward situation Teiya and I go to the bathroom. I immediately look at my self. Drool, messed up hair, and a wrinkled shirt is the best description I can really give myself. I looked like a hurricane hit me. Literally. Out of the corner of my eye I see Teiya trying to hold in a laugh. I punch her in the arm.

After I get all "glammed" up, we go back to the room. Everyone's quiet. Too quiet... I try to start up a conversation like a usually do.
"Hey Guys.. Long time no see! How have you guys been doing?"
Still. Silent.
"Well.. I personally been pretty good... pretty good.."
"We've been doing just great," I hear a loud voice suddenly speak. Elyssia and Sunshine! Elyssia's old "red" hair in middle school has changed into a lighter brown red and she's now super tall having slender legs. Sunshine on the other hand is I guess the same. She don't grow much over the years and she cut and dyed her hair blond on the tips. Her face looking pretty flawless and a winged liner on her eyes. I see them holding hands. I guess after high school they experimented a bit.
Luis was the next to speak up. He's a bit taller now. Still skinny and still wearing his big rimmed glasses. After high school we never really talked anymore which I was disappointed with but now he's here.
"Eh.. Life's been okay?.."
Still the same sarcastic Luis, but with a deeper voice.
"Come on guys! Don't be too awkward," Giselle said loudly.

She's still the warm hearted, loud and loving Giselle. She grew a bit and had an hourglass figure. Her skin looking smooth and tan while her hair now long and curly.
With that sentence it was like we were back in middle school. We talked about how our lives have been. Giselle actually being the head nurse for Nina's "case", Luis is a game designer for a huge company I don't remember, Elyssia being pretty successful since she has her own hospital for Children and Sunshine, still in college, but training to be a lawyer. Marissa talked on how she just had a main article about "Child Abuse and How it Needs to Stop" in the latest issues of The New York Daily. They were all having such amazing lives like we always dreamed of. Nina brought our classmates no, she brought our broken family back together.


PART 12

POV: Still Alison

Today was just amazing! We talked about our dreams for the next 5 years, we caught up on all the things we missed like Elyssia and Sunshine being together and finally we ended it with a "touchy" topic.
I try to enter carefully, like walking a thin layer of ice on a lake.
"Maybe we should talk over the whole 'Nina' situation.."
Of course knowing myself, the thin layer of ice just broke and I drown.
The room was so silent that if a teacher from our class came in they would give us all gold stars.
Marissa immediately gets up and walks out of the room. I chase after her.
"Marissa! Wait!!"
She only just walks even faster.
"Stop! Don't walk away like this!"
I chase her till the parking lot. Either she's really fast or I'm like really out of shape. "Please.. Marissa don't go away... You aren't the only one that is suffering right now."

She gets in her car and right when she is about to close it I blurt,
"Why do you always push people out of your life!?"
She pauses. Doesn't close the door but instead she gets out of the car, stands up and clears her throat.
"You just don't understand..."
"Then let me help you!"
"You CAN'T."
I see a single tear runs down her face. She just drives away leaving me.. alone.. in the middle of a parking lot.

PART 13

POV: Still Alison

"Alison! Gosh. Why do you always have to ruin everything!!" I say to myself.
I kick a trash can. This much "destruction" was very out of hand for me.
The next thing I know I see a man in a black ski mask running toward me. He is tall, wearing all black and holding a knife in one hand. He runs into me like a football player.
I'm completely shocked by the blow and get up. Sprinting after me, I yell. Loud.
"AH-"
He covers my mouth with his hand. I try to wiggle out of his grip but he's too strong. I stomp on his foot as hard as I can. He finally lets go but uses his knife to slice through my leg.  I drop to the ground, holding my leg and cried out in deep pain. Blood squirts out of my leg. Red puddles of liquid surround me. It was the most pain I've felt in my life. It's like a thousand fire ants on one part of your leg. I lay there for what seemed like years. Also clutching my head, I must of hit it due to the impact of my body to the ground. I bring my hands to my eye level and see blood from the pain on my head. I didn't even realize that it hit it that hard because of the freaking agonizing feeling on my leg. I must have dropped in and out of consciousness because the next thing I see is that the man in black was on the ground passed out next to me.

I try to get up to see what happened but fail at my attempt forgetting that my leg was technically almost cut off. A voice says assertively,
"Don't get up. Stay lying down."
I recognize the voice.
 "Luis.. Help me! A... Man.. Was and then... Attacked-"
"Shh.. Stay calm. I took care of him."
Huh? Luis saved me?
I look down at my right leg. It's covered in deep red and the gash in it was wide open.   It hurt like hell. Luis tried to help me get up so we can walk to the hospital right next door. Again. I fall my second attempt failed once more. Luis is pushing down on my cut to help stop it from bleeding. I grimace in pain. Blood is literally everywhere. It was even in his hair. I start laughing. He looks at me with a confused look like I've gone insane. He probably thinks I'm hallucinating from all the blood loss.
"What's so funny," he asks.
I wipe the blood from his hair. He smiles.
"Thanks."
"No thank you.. What even happened after I passed out?"
"All I did really was kick him in the balls."
"Wow I should have thought of that..."
"You kicked him that hard that he is now on the floor?"
"I guess so."
We both laugh even at this horrible time.
I mouth,
"I love you," but he doesn't read the words so I use all my strength to say,
"Bye, Raven," as the medics lift me on the gurney and the last thing I see is Luis waving bye to me.

PART 14

December 23, 2024
6:35 PM
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
10 degrees F

POV: Teiya

Numb. Deprived of the power of sensation. Deprive of feeling or responsiveness. Numb. I stood there emotionless and I felt nothing.
"Alison.."
I say with a troubled breathe. Just a few minutes ago we were having such a wonderful time. Laughing, talking, feel connected for once. I used to have words buzzing, thoughts whirling in my mind. But all that changed. I don't hear the squeaks of the gurney, I don't feel my fingers, I see nothing but her face, unconscious, with blood gushing out of her leg and it all over her body. A sensation crashed over me like a wave on the ocean floor. I was back.
I sprint to her.
"What happened!?"
"We don't know. A young man from outside of the hospital yelled for us to come out and we saw her with him."
"Luis."
"She has a gash in her right leg calf, is unconscious, and has a low blood pressure. Get her to the ER immediat-"
I didn't even stay to finish what the nurse said. Luis knows what happened to her.


I burst through the back doors.
"LUIS!" My voice echoes.
I look outside. It's already pitch black dark. I see my breath in the air like smoke.
"Yes.."
He's sitting on a curb, holding his head in his hands.
"What happened out here," I say trying to sound forceful.
He's silent at first but soon tells me what happened. I see it all play out in my head like a movie.
"I see Alison. On the ground not moving. I thought she was.. dead.. I see a man in a black mask. Getting up from the ground."
He pauses trying to find the words.
"I-I panic. What are you suppose to do when the girl you.."
He shakes his head.
"I mean your frien-"
I hear the struggle in his voice for him to say that.
"And to see her laying on the ground. Lifeless.."
"I'm sorry.. I didn't mean it to sound like your fault.."
"Maybe it was. If I was just damn fast enough.."
He gets up and walks toward me.
"Tri." He says that quietly.
"It was Tri."
I didn't even notice the body laying on the ground. The mask was pulled off and he had bruises all over his face.
"What did you do to him?"
"When Alison was rolled away I wanted to know who it was. I punched him and I kicked him. How could he hurt her? How could he?!"
I haven't seen Tri since Junior year. I heard he dropped out and move away.
For once in my life the city that never sleeps was silent. Like it was paying tribute to Alison.
Tri? How could a turtle loving kid turn to a man that just cut open one of his friends? We walk back into the hospital. All of them were worried about us. They saw the blood on Luis's hands and arms.
"What happened!?"
"Did you hear about Alison?"
"Are you okay?"
All their questions. Unanswered. Luis and I stay silent. The rest of our class join. And we were all just numb.

PART 15

December 23, 2024
8:07 PM
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
5 degrees F

POV: Justin

Why? Why do all bad things happen. First Nina being in a coma, and now Alison? Why her? She didn't do anything wrong. She was the one ray of Sunshine in a whole sky of darkness. I have so many questions that can only be answered in time. We are all sitting in her room. Some of us playing with our hair, tapping our feet, and some with red sore eyes. We heard the beeping from the monitor and the breaths of each other. Room 148. Right next to Nina's. Giselle, Dominic, Sunshine, Elyssia, Luis, and.. Teiya.. What even happened to us. We were just fine. Loving each other. Holding hands. Celebrating our desire to be with one another but in just 2 seconds can that all change? We were all quiet. Many things puzzling and buzzing through our minds. When we all heard the news that one of our own hurt Alison, we were all in shock. Elyssia took it the hardest. She always had a thing for Tri but now was just hurt by the things he has done with his life. The doctors said that they are giving many different medications to her to keep her unconscious. They don't want her to stress out and have her mind whirling around in different directions when she wakes up.
"AHH.."
We all hear a voice coming from Alison's bed.
Some shift to the noise and some even get up. Apparently the medications didn't work and Alison was sitting up in her bed. Panting. The rest of us stand in unison.
"Relax.. relax," said Teiya.
"Wh-what happ-need to me.." She said still grasping for air.
"You were just sleeping," I say trying to get her relaxed.
"Huh.. What.. What even is going on? I'm very confused..."
"You always are Alison," Luis said jokingly. "What? Who is Alison? Who are you?"


PART 16

POV: Teiya

Hearing these words break my heart. This was my worst nightmare.
"Alison, do you remember me.."
She hesitates, not wanting to displease me.
"Uh.."
"Alison..I'm your best friend.."
"Really?"
"Yes.."
I felt like crying and screaming. In my mind I want to beg her. Beg if she remembers me. All the memories, all the inside jokes, everything.. Only I remember. Maybe it was meant to be this way. She didn't deserve to be caught up in all this drama. She's didn't deserve to be suffering if any of this continues. I know her secrets and she doesn't even knows them.
"Ali.." Luis says. He sounds broken. His heart shattered in a million little pieces. All on the floor. Alison looks like she's about to cry. She doesn't know us anymore. It's not her fault. To her. We are just people. Not friends not family not anything else but strangers.


PART 17

December 24, 2024
(The same day as part one, but 2 hours before)

POV: Narrator (technically Alison since I'm writing this but not really lol)

It was about noon and Justin and Teiya slept over at the hospital that night. The snow was fluffy and soft when flowing to the ground. The windows were fogging and icy from the cold winds. Come on," said Justin, "We've had a pretty rough 2 days. Let's just go.."
"Home," said Teiya.
They both get into their blue Honda Van and drive off. An old song by the late Justin Bieber plays.
"What do you mean.... Mmmh When you nod you head..."
"Omg this was my favorite song when I was younger!" As Teiya says this Justin rolls his eyes.
"I hated this song..."
"Of course." She giggles but then her expression turns to confusion, sadness and darkness in one. Teiya takes her shaking hand and turns off the radio.
"Alison and I used to always sing that song.. All the time.."
 At first, Justin was shocked by the sudden change of pace. He hesitates and doesn't know what to say.
"Uh.. Alison is.. going to be like.. you know.. all fine..."
"Yea.."
The car was quiet. No one spoke and suddenly Teiya says something that Justin didnt expect.
"I love you. You know that right?"
"Yes, of course."
"Do you love me?"
"...Yes"
"Why did you hesitate," There's a hint of desperation in her voice.
"I didn't.."
"Again. You hesitated. Why are you lying to me? I know you to damn well. Do you even love me?"
"Teiya.. We shouldn't talk about this right now. I'm driving."
"Fine."
She shrugs and looks out of the window into the cold winter night.

As they were driving home, the snow was pouring hard on them. Teiya gets out of the blue gumball car.
"Now can you answer my freaking question?!"
"Okay okay. Just calm a bit down."
Few seconds later she continues and asks.
"Do you love me?"
"Yes.. but no.."
"Just not the same as Nina huh?"
"Who told you?"
"No one had to. The way you look at her. Even though she's in a coma! But I was dumb enough to believe that you did... Dominic helped me piece the puzzle together."
"Wait. He told you. That little.."
"Stop! This isn't his fault. He just wanted me to know the lies you have told me.
She pauses to catch her breath.
"He told me that you still love her. You still love her even though I was here for you when she wasn't. When you were sad. WHEN YOU NEEDED LOVE!  And I'm still not good enough."
"Please don't do this right now."
Teiya gets frustrated and kicks the snow piling.
"Did you even love me? Just please say it. Please..."
She pauses to revaluate herself but continues.
"Do you not know how much it's hurting right now." Her urgent voice turns to a slight whisper.
"Do you.."
Teiya loves so whole. She loves like her life depends on it. All of it.

(Same was part 1)

"Justin.. I love you.."
"Well.. You just can't"
"How am I suppose to do that!?"
Justin stays silent
"HUH!? How do you expect me to just stop loving you?"
"Idk..."
Justin looks away
"Exactly. You want me to move on. You want me to be happy. But what if I was happy with you?.."
"I'm sorry Teiya.. This.. Us.. We? It just can't be."
"I guess so.."
Teiya looks at Justin with tears in her eyes
Justin lays his head on Teiya's head
"One last time?"
Teiya lays her head on Justin's shoulder
They stay there for what seemed like an eternity.
Justin breaks the silence and says, "I'm sorry.."
There's a sound of regret in his voice
"Sorry isn't enough to fix a broken heart."
Teiya turns around and walks away slowly while she wipes the tears from her face
Justin tries to stop her and hesitates a bit.
He wants to explain that he can't stop his feelings for "her" too. But he doesn't. He just watched as the girl he used to love just walked out of his life.


PART 18

POV: Teiya

Walking. I'm walking. Where too? I don't even know. All I know is that I need to get out of here. What are you suppose to do when the man you thought you were going to marry, the man you thought you were going to have children with, the man I thought I was going to spend my life with doesn't even love me anymore. I don't even know if he ever did love me..
My legs carry me to Alison's apartment. It's really late at and she's probably sleeping but of course she's studying.. Again..
"Teiya?.." Alison says with a worried yet tired voice.
I try the hold in my tears but it just hits me full force ahead. I drop to my knees my legs failing to support my weary body.
"Teiya what happened.."
I don't respond just sit there on my knees lying against the wall crying my whole heart out.
"Teiya get up please..."
I look up at Alison her misshapen figure blurred by my tears. I try to get up mostly Alison supporting me up. She takes me to her bed.
"Just sleep, you have had a pretty rough day..."
I hold her arm and look into her eyes.
"Thank you... so much..."
"It's no problem"
"No. I mean it. Thank you."
"For what? I'm just letting you sleepover"
She says this with a slight smirk on her face. And we start laughing. How does she do it? Be so happy and make even me laugh at times if despair. Even when Tyler died, she was still happy and trying to make everyone happy especially Nina. I could tell she was a slight jealous of her but she set her differences aside and still comforted her when Nina needed it.
I lay in Alison's medium chestnut brown bed with the bright blue spread sheets and neon purple pok-a-dots. Even her bed is lively! I lay there and think to myself.. (Next part written by Teiya! :))

I'll be fine. No matter what happens I'll be fine.. I just have to kinda get used to it. He may have left me for another or he may have rejected me but I won't let that get in my way. As I hear the snow falling softly on the roof of Alison's house, I think of him with some other girl. I think of him without me. I think of where I went wrong and if I should do anything to fix it. But I can't and for me I guess that's alright. Even though we were together for a few years we all knew that someday this would happen. We just never knew when... I guess I should've spent more time on preparing myself for this. Maybe I should just stop thinking about him or distance myself because I already know I can't be with him so why should I be sad?
I sit there in silence thinking about the question I just asked.
I know why I'll be sad. Its because he was my world. And he still is. He may be my world till the day I die even if.. I'm not his. And I think that's whats going to hurt the most. I used to be his world but I guess the person who I am wasn't enough for him. I want to change or maybe go back in time so that I can feel his love again. So that I don't have to worry about him not ever loving me. And I can change who I was so that I'll be enough for him. I know none of this will happen but if only it could. If only I had the chance.. Then I would go back just to fix everything. Just to fix this situation, just to fix myself. Its fine its fine its fine its fine its.. its...it's not fine. The snow suddenly stops but then I start crying. My eyes become a dark sky filling itself with rain that's about to fall. I slowly begin to drift off to sleep with the thought of him and me together on our last time seeing each other this night.

PART 19

POV: Still Teiya

(Well.. You must be asking yourself- if you were even paying any attentions- "Wait what? That doesn't make any sense, I thought Alison doesn't remember you?" But if you didn't catch it already that's what I wished happened. Let's rewinds a bit...)

I'll be fine no matter what.
 (Wait rewind a bit more...)

My legs carry my to Alison's apartment.
(Just a little further...)

Walking. (Finally) I'm walking. Where too? I don't even know. No Justin, no Alison and it would be just awkward staying at Marissa's house since what happened between us just 2 days ago. I finally contemplate of going to his place.

 "You are like one of my closest friends. If anything and I mean anything goes wrong, I will be here for you." He said that to me on the last day of Senior year. Hopefully he actually meant it and wasn't joking, I walked up to his front door with despair and desperation in my face.  He answers and looking confused on why I was here but still glad I visited.
"Teiya! What are you doing here?"
I respond trying to sound as calm as possible, "To be honest, I don't even know.."
"Well just come in," Dominic said.

I scrimper along and look at the large entrance way. There was an arch with a gradient cream colored and light brown marble flooring. The hallway itself was vast, long and full of paintings. Dang.. Where did he get the money for all of this? My house isn't even a house. It's a small cramped apartment with peeling off wall paint and scratched wooden flooring. Dominic sees the amazement in my eyes and says,
"Yeah. I know."
We giggle a bit. Somehow having me forget about this awful week. But it comes back to me. All the emotions rolling over me in a wave and I can't hold back the tears. Out of nowhere water droplets fall down my face and to the floor.
"Teiya..? What happened?"
I walk to the wall (which by the way had a desk and case next to it so I tried to be careful) and lean onto it trying to compose myself but it didn't work.
"Teiya.. Hold it in. You'll be fine.." I say this to myself trying to keep the feelings from taking over completely.
"You'll be fine. Just keep up the smile," says one side of me.
"AHH... I can't. Take it anymore," says the other. But I don't say any of this. Just inner conflict battling each other. One wanting to just yell and break something. The other wanting to tuck away and hide my feelings forever. All I can manage is,
"Everything."
"Huh," Dominic asks confused.
"Everything ..is wrong," I stop to sniffle. "Justin told me th..that he really does still loves Nina. But.. But.. I love him.."
Dominic tries to find the words.
"It's his loss. He just lost a strong smart and beautiful woman.."
He blushed when he says this.
"You are a perfect girl and don't let anyone change what you think of yourself." As he says this. He tucks my hair behind my ear and wipes my tears away with thumbs. I can feel the long breaths coming from his nose and His face was so close to mine that if I made any sudden movements my lips could gently brush against his.
"Thanks," I say.
"You can stay with me as long as you need. Now.. Let's get some ice cream"
He says this with a mischief smile.
Again I giggle.
"That would be just perfect."


PART 20

POV: Nina

I wake up. Where am I? Oh.. Here again. I've woken up 10 times and all at the same place. I see the car. I see me and I see him.. I have relived this moment in my life a dozen times. Who is making me go through this? Maybe it's the doctors. Maybe it's just me. By now I know I'm not conscious. My body is just stuck in a hospital while my mind is reliving the man I love's death. I hear the squeaks of the cars breaks and every single time, I still cringe at the sound. After this many times, Im still not used to it. Well who would be huh? Every time, I sprint to the car even though I know that I can't stop it. I see Tyler's face laying on younger Nina's lap. But this time he says something different. The first time it was,
"I love.. Alison.."
The time after that it was,
"I love Elyssia or Sunshine" or any other name then mine.
My heart broke when he wouldn't say my name. It shatters. Like broken glass on the floor. I turn around from the car. Trying to keep my heart stable for once.
"I never loved you.."
I hear this sentence that makes my heart stop.
"What?.."
He gets up with glass through his tan skin and blood staining his arms and forehead.
I'm in awe.
"What? Huh? Ho-how are you standing," I say with a trembling voice.
"I never loved you."
He says this with a dark and harsh voice.
"I never loved you!"
"I never loved you!"
Every time getting louder and louder until it's drowning me in words that I never thought he would say.

"I NEVER LOVED YOU!"
He's now screaming and yelling at me. Chanting these truly life ending words.
"I NEVER LOVED YOU AND I WILL NEVER!"
I'm on the floor with my hands covering my ears and my eyes forced shut like staples. My chest hurts and my ears feel like they are bleeding.
Suddenly there's no sound. Did I just go deaf or did he stop? I open my eyes and he's on my floor with red liquid oozing out of his mouth spilling over into the cement. Deep black red liquids also cover the center of her chest. His eyes are full of blood and he's looking straight at my hand. When I look to see why, I see a bloody knife in one hand and a heart in the other.

PART 21

POV: Alison

Hi. My name is Alison Nicole Paguio, I live in New York and I'm studying to be a doctor, atleast that's what they are telling me. I don't even know who I am. When I woke up, I saw a crowd of people surrounding me. 4 girls by the name of Elyssia, Sunshine, Giselle and Teiya. Teiya is apparently my best friend. 3 guys by the name of Dominic Justin and Luis. I didn't recognize any of them. Except Luis. In the back of my mind I thought I knew him. Like he did something really amazing for me to remember. Anyways, what was I suppose to do it even say to them? Pretend I know them? Pretend I'm still sleeping? I told them that I didn't know any of them. And it was the truth. When I said this, I could see the look in specifically Luis' eyes. Like by what I just said, broke his heart, broke all of their hearts. They told me their names and bits of info for me to remember them by.

"Hi.. I'm Giselle and umm.. I'm your nurse."

"I'm your cousin Sunshine."

"I'm like your closest friends Elyssia! Do you remember me? Well you should beca-"

"Elyssia, you are confusing her," said Teiya.
"I'm your best friend, Teiya.."

"I'm Justin," racking his hand through his hair.

"Dominic," with a slight wave.

"Hello, I'm Luis Luna," hands in his pockets.

There was a long waited silence. Followed by my soft voice.

"Hi? I guess my name is Alison."


PART 22

December 25, 2024
12:02 AM
NYC, New York
Marissa and Nina's Apartment

POV: Marissa (something new)

"Merry Christmas," I say to myself. Usually Nina and I would make hot chocolate, sit next to our fireplace and talk about deep stuff going on in our lives. I remember last year. It would have been 5 years after.. his.. death. She told me why she loved him.
"Was it because of his fluffy hair," I said jokingly.
"No. Because he knew how to make me happy even though I wasn't. Because he knew my weaknesses but didn't use them against me. Because I knew that he loved me even though we were fighting."

"He did know how to make you happy huh?" I said trying to lighten up the conversation. But it sounded like she was on her own. Talking to herself. Not me.

"He used to hold me tight in his arms... Swinging me around.. I would even play back old videos just to hear his voice again.. Just one last time..." She said this with a little smile trying to remember his.

Now as the picture of us last year faded away back into the dark, cold room of our apartment, I wish that it could come back. That she would wake up. I don't know..

Then I remember 2 days ago when I stormed out of the hospital.
"Why do you always push people out of your life!?"
Alison's screams in my head. She wanted me to stay. She actually cared about me and what I was going through and now she's probably spending her Christmas with all of our friends back at the hospital.
"Ugh!" I say to myself once again.
"Why do I always do this!!"
Maybe I should call just to check up on Nina to see if Nina has woken up? I call up Alison. To not only check up but to say sorry. Ring... Ring... Ring.... Then she picks up.
"Hello?"
"Hey Alison.. I'm sorr-"
"Umm.. Who is this?"
"It's Marissa. Remember me?" I say trying to sound funny.
"Should I remember you?"
She sound serious. Like she really doesn't remember me..
"Alison? It's Marissa. Your friend?"
"Uh.. I'm sorry but I don't think I remember you..."
"No wait-"
Then she end the call.


PART 23

Flashback to..
April 1, 2019
1st Day Back from Spring Break

POV: Luis

"Boo!"
I hear a high pitched scream and feel hands on my shoulders.
"Haha! April Fools," she says with a bright smile on her face.
This was the most happy I have seen her since "his" death. It's like she's finally moved on and she's very radiant in front of me.
"So.. How was your spring break?"
"Eh nothing special. Just played some video games. How about you?"
"It was super fun!" She didn't give me any details since she isn't the bragging type.
Yesterday was her birthday and I wasn't able to see her during the break.
"Well happy late birthday," I say breaking the silence.
"Oh. Thanks."
The slight change of tone in her voice made it just enough for me to know that something was wrong.
I stop walking down the long narrow hallway and she halts with me. Before she could ask why I stopped I said,
"Hey?.. What's wrong?"
"Nothing." I can tell she was forcing a smile. She always does just to keep me happy. It doesn't fool me this time.
"No. I'm serious. What's wrong?"
"It's nothing okay?"
Wow. Really? You really don't want me to know?
"Is it because of him again.." I say with rolled eyes.
I know she liked him it was obvious but come on. It's been like 3 months already. Can you not get over him?

"Why do you always think it's because of him?"
"I don't know.. I-"
"This isn't because of him. It's because of something I did. And- and- I- don't even know why anymore.."
She's sobbing now. Because of something she did? How could she have done anything? She's- she's just Alison?
"Hey hey hey it's going to be alright okay?"
"No! It isn't."
"You didn't do anything wrong."
I hold her shoulders keeping her here. She forced away my grip.
Wiping away the tears in her eyes she says,
"Yes, I did. I'm the one that caused Tyler's death."

PART 24

POV: Still Luis

Same Flashback

"WHAT! I thought you loved him? WHAT!? Wait did you love him? Maybe this is my chance."
That's what I said in my mind
This is what I really said.
"Huh? You must be joking?"
"Luis," she looks me in the eyes, " I'm dead serious.. No pun intended"
"How could you ever do that? You- you are Alison."
"Luis I-I didn't mean too. Please please don't hate me..."
"I could never hate you. You are like the sweetest girl I know. How could I," I say with a smirk on my face.
She takes my hand which sends electricity down my spine. Did her touch always have this effect on me?
We walk outside of the clustered hallway to getaway from the sea of confused teens.
"No Luis. You just don't get it. You think I'm this- this innocent girl," pausing to just look at herself with a face of disgust.
"But I'm a fucking killer.  You should just stay away from me. It's not like you liked me anyways."
As she turns around to walk away, to end our friendship I say,
"You are 100 percent correct"
This weird saying turns her head toward me.
"I never in my life," I continue saying," liked you.
I walk slowly walk closer and my heart beat quickens.
"Not as friends or even "associates" Nope. I never liked you because I love you and there is nothing you say or do can change that."
"Luis I killed a man."
"How exactly?"
"Just come with me."
"Where are we gonna go?"
But then she leads me off. Where to?
I have no idea.

PART: 25

POV: Dominic

I can't believe this is happening right now. Teiya (aka the girl I've been in love with since 7th grade) is staying with me at my house. It is a dream come true. When I told her about Justin I wasn't expecting the love of my life to come knocking at my door step. I just thought that she deserved better.. I guess.. Maybe I'm the better she's looking for.
"You actually think that she will love you? You actually think that she will somehow love a boy like your self."
Justin's words ring in my head. I feel sorry for him. Right now, I've got almost everything I could ask for. Except for her. He had her. And to me she was everything.
Yes, I was sorta jealous. But I didn't let it take over me to ruin a relationship. I just.. "helped" her notice what was truly going on. We need to talk over some stuff.. Ever since our last conversation with each other nothing was the same.

Part 25.5
4:40 AM
Christmas Morning
December 25, 2024

POV: Dominic

I've not been able to sleep. It's cold and little specks of snow are falling. The windows are frosted from the freezing weather. To get my mind off things, I put on my navy blue winter jacket, lace up my low-cut boots, and shut the door quietly behind me so that Teiya doesn't wake up. Right before I leave, I kiss her forehead and whisper,
"Merry Christmas, Teiya.."
I walk to Justin's house. I need to set things straight with each other and he needs to know I didn't want their relationship to be broken. Seeing Emerald Ave, I turn left seeing the apartments. I walk toward the elevator taking me to 14th floor. Knocking on the door, I hear glass shatter.
"Justin! Are you in there?" I asked urgent and worried.
He opens the door slowly and a face of revulsion and overall gross look shows.
"What the hell are you doing here?" He asks obviously annoyed by my presence
"Oh just wanted to check up on you.. Can I come in?"
"Fine."
He doesn't know that Teiya is staying with me. If he did, he wouldn't let me in. I slowly walk into the room.

 Empty bottles of beer are left on the table and shatter pieces of the bottles are smashed on the ground.
"I just wanted you to know that Teiya is staying with me."
"What. She is what?"
"Well she needed someone to help her out through this..um.."
"No man. Why did you have to tell her?" The face of disgust was now replaced with a face of sadness and betrayal.
"I didn't mean to have this happen you know that."
"You-you just wanted her. To keep her to yourself. How could you?"
"It's not like that, Justin!"
"Then why? Why would you take her away from me."
"She needed to know the truth."
"No. You were just being selfish and wanted our relationship to end. So you could be with her."
"She doesn't even love me!"
That shut him up..
"I've always known she'll never love me back so have any other girl so why would Teiya be any different!? This pains me to say it, but she still loves you."
He doesn't say another word. Maybe afraid to or felt sorrow for me. I scrimper out. Once I get back into my house, I see Teiya standing in front of me. She looks like she was just scared to death.
"I was worried about you. Where have you been?"
I don't respond and just get into my bed.
"It's been a long day..."

PART 26

9:17 AM
Christmas Morning
December 25, 2024

POV: Alison

"Merry Christmas!"

I wake up to the sound of cheers for this holiday. At first startled by the sudden sounds, I tense up but soon realize it's just my "friends" even though I know nothing about them. I try to get up to greet them but stumble on my attempt. As I brace for impact, I am caught in the arms of um.. oh yeah.. Luis. He blushes since our faces were so close together. We stay in that position of me in his arms holding me tight for what seemed like eternity. Dominic breaks the silence by saying,
"Oh..."
with a mischief smirk on his face. He awkwardly lets me go and puts his hands in his pockets. I stand up straight and try to tidy up my hospital gown. My face cherry red from the encounter, I scurry away toward the bathroom. Teiya and sunshine follow me there.
"What happened back there?"
Teiya asks while winking her eyes.
"What are you doing? Are you twitching?"
I say jokingly back. We all laugh and giggle.
"But honestly I don't even know. Did like Luis and I have any.. past "relationship?"
"Well," Sunshine answers, " I always thought that you guys liked each other but if not, I thought that Luis liked you."
"I don't know I barely know him.. (Or you guys.. -but I didn't say that-)"
"Then get to know him,"
Teiya says.
"How? I'm twenty- two. This feels like what 13 year old me would be thinking right now."
"Who cares," Sunshine says, "And you are right. You are twenty- two so it's time you get yourself out there."
"Ever since Tyler died you didn't really think about guys that much..."
"Um. Who's Tyler"
"Oh my gosh.." Sunshine and Teiya look at each other forgetting that I have lost my memory.
"Tyler was.. nobody. Just forget about him."
"I think I have already done that.."

We walk back into the room and I see that Luis was in between Dominic and Justin holding them back away from each other. Then the first swing. Justin punches Dominic right in the face and Teiya screams. Dominic looks up recovering from the blow and says, "Is that all you got?"


Dominic punches Justin on his left side of the jaw then the right. Blood, cuts and bruises cover the face of both of the guys.
"Stop it!?"
Teiya yells at the top of her lungs.
"What is this all about you guys?"
Dominic storms away and Teiya follows him into the hallway.

PART 27

(Switching POV to Dominic)

"What has gotten into you?" Teiya asks me obviously flustered.
"He broke your heart. You expect me to just wait and watch you hurt?"
Walking up and down the hall way she halts in front of me. Her deep long dark hair swept onto her left shoulder. Some of her hair blocking the deep brown eyes that are always trying to get through to me, trying to understand what I'm thinking.
"Well this," using her hand gesturing around in a circle, "Isn't your problem, Dominic!"
I take one step forward so that we are just a few inches apart.
"Dominic. You don't have I fight for me. I can handle it myself. Just look at you!? You are bleeding and bruised. I don't want you to get hurt over my problems."

"Teiya," I use the back of my hand to slowly and gently brush away the hair covering her flawless face, "This isn't just for me. If he hurt you, I can't just let him get away with it. I-I.."
"No..no no... no... Dominic.. Please not right now."
"Teiya," I'm holding her cold face in my bare hands, "I just can't suppress this feeling I have for you anymore."
"Dominic, Dominic, Dominic. You always have to pick the wrong timing huh?"
Her long fingers gently take my hands off her face lowering them down to my sides.
Dang. She looks- just- so.. beautiful..
even in this dim lighting. I don't respond to her question.  It's like I'm under a trance and she's just controlling me. She looks at my face, I look into her eyes trying to see if she feels something for me back.

She has a bright smile on her face. That was always my goal. To make her happy.
"Stop doing that."
"What am I doing?"
"Why are you looking at me in that way? Is there something on my face?"
She uses her hand to wipe away the "thing" she thinks is on her face.


"There isn't anything on your face, Teiya," I roll my eyes to her response, " There is just an angel right in front of me.."
"Come on," she says giggling a bit. Awe, her giggle is so adorable.
"You know I'm a sucker for pick up lines."
She shakes her head and her smile disappears.
"This can't happen, Dominic. I just got out of the long relationship. You should already know this. I don't.."
"Yeah I know. It was stupid of me to do this to you."
"Dominic, I just don't love you.. like that."
These words. They stab my heart.
Tears are threatening to pour but I somehow control the pain I'm feeling. It's like someone grabbed my heart, threw it on the floor and a herd of Buffaloes ran over it. I just say,
"It's okay."
Then walk away back into the room and pretend nothing happened. Pretend that I'm not dead inside.


PART 28

10:30 AM
Christmas Morning
December 25, 2024

POV: Marissa

I can just sense it.

Something had gone wrong. After the call with Alison, she seemed a little off. Maybe from going through with college and everything else going on in her life, she's just extra stressed. I sensed it like on the day we went ice skating.

Just 3 days ago.

"Come on Marissa! Let's go skating!!" says Nina hopping up and down excitedly.
"I just don't think today is a good day," I say walking back toward the car.
"And why is that?"
"Well.. It's snowing more today," pointing to the sky, "It's extra chilly and I just have a bad feeling about this." I put my hands in my pockets and nod my head.
"Don't be such a downer Marissa. And anyways, I can't go skating without you! You've gotten pretty good over the years."
"True, true.."
"So.. Can we go?"
It takes me a second or two to make a decision, but I finally give in to the beg.
"Fine. But my "senses" are almost 99.9 percent right. So don't blame me if anything goes wrong okay?"
"Deal."

Back to the Present.

I dash to the car after I feel the wave of anxiety roll over me. If the feeling I got with Nina was correct, something must be wrong. Hustling to the hospital, I honk the horn at every driver that gets in my way. It's New York, so I beeped a lot.. Once at the hospital, I race to the second floor and literally sprint to room 146. It was.. Empty?
Why was Nina all alone? What happened to everyone else?
But then I hear murmurs from a room right a crossed from Nina. Room 148.
I mosey in through the high door way and the first thing I see was Alison. My eyes dart to her body sitting up in the hospital bed.
"Oh my gosh! Alison are you alright?"
Hesitant she answers, "Yes. I am just fine. I hate to ask... but- who are you?"
Then everything clicks. The weird phone call, her re asking the question again and her in a hospital bed! She doesn't remember who I am. I thought she was just stressed. I thought she was just not feeling the best. But no. She's lost her memory.
Trying to collect my self and find the courage to answer, I say, "I am Marissa Johnsen. I'm one of your closest friends. And I'm so sorry."
With a confused face, she doesn't ask me why she just says, " For whatever you have done. I have forgiven you."
She gives me a warm smile and I run up to her to give her a hug. Obviously not expecting the sudden gesture, she's stiffens but hugs me back.
"I'm so sorry.." I say suddenly weeping and my tears running down her back.
"Don't worry Marissa. This isn't your fault."
"But- but- it is.."
She lets go to the sound of the words I've just said.


"Marissa can we have a little talk outside?"
Says Luis and Elyssia interrupting my words"
I wipe away the fresh tears on my face and nod.
Outside in the hall way Luis and Elyssia explain to me what happened when I fled in my car. The robber, the blood, hitting her head on the cement. It all tied back to me. If I hadn't been so damn selfish, she would know who we were and we would be having a wonderful Christmas. Overwhelmed by the sudden hit of information, I sit down in one of the hallway chairs. Green and firm.
"Also.. We identified the man who did this," Elyssia says in a voice that's almost a whisper.
"Who? Who?!"
Luis answers still shocked himself by the man, "It was Tri."
"Wait. Tri as in OUR Tri!?" These words force me to stand up in disbelief.
"Yes."
"Why didn't you tell me about this sooner!? I could have been here and I could have know supported you guys through this."
"We just didn't want to overwhelm you. After Nina, we thought you just needed a break from all of the crazy things going on," says Luis shoving his hands in his pockets. "And believe me, you aren't the only one still surprised by what happened..."
Luis walks back into the room leaving Elyssia and I alone.
"Don't mind him. He was the one that actually found and saved Alison. Pretty heroic if you ask me. "
"Yeah. I guess we just all need a break."
We both smile after a day's full of on stress.
"I just really hope she gets better."
Elyssia responds, "Yeah. Hopefully.."

PART 29

11:36 AM
Christmas Day
December 25, 2024

POV: Teiya

When Elyssia, Luis and Marissa left the room, Giselle, Sunshine, Dominic, Justin, Alison and I were left. At first, awkward and dead silent, Giselle also left the room calling Sunshine with her to get something in her car. Alison knew that things would get tense soon, so she followed them into the hall. Leaving Dominic, Justin and I alone. That was just a recipe for disaster really.
I wanted to say so many things for both of them like,
"Why DON'T you love me?," to Justin
Or
"Why DO you love me," to Dominic," but I let the silence trail off too long. We stood here for 6 minutes and 21 seconds in counting. In this moment, I felt sort of calm-er. It's moments like this that I long for since its better then bitter fighting between all three of us. I hear Dominic's shoe tapping against the hollow flooring leaving a sound of beats echoing in the room. I see Justin's face looking like he's about to say something. I hoped for a, "Teiya I made a mistake," but instead I got a, "Teiya, I'm going to leave the room for just a second.
"Uh.. Okay.. Where are you going?"
"I'm just gonna check up on Nina real quick okay?"
"... Yeah. That's fine."


Really, really? Check up on Nina!? Why not check up on me? I am.. was.. your girl friend!
Fury builds up inside of me and threatens for an  explosion. But I let it just simmer. Forgetting Dominic was in the room, he notices that my face was red and eyes were developing tears.
"It's okay."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"It's okay for you to go follow him. Ask him the questions you want to ask."
"I don't have any questions..." I say pretending that I haven't thought about the situation even though ever second of everyday I dwell about what happened.
"Come, Teiya.. I know you."
When he says this is reminds of the days when we used to talk and bond. He made me feel like I wasn't some girl around the corner but makes me feel cared about and safe.. The good old times I guess.
"Yeah you do know me. Thanks for understanding.."
"No problem Tei. I'll always have your back.."


With that I slowly walk into room 146, Nina's room.
"Hey Justin.. Can we talk?"
These words are words I almost promised myself never to say to someone.  They either mean good news, or bad news. No in between, but most likely bad. Today, it will probably lead to a awkward conversation and worked up emotions being spit out between both of us.
Justin doesn't respond but just hides his face in the shadows of the dim lighting. He raises his hands and wipes away something on his face. Tears. Wait tears?
"Sure Teiya. We can-talk."
It was muffled so that I can just barely hear his coarse voice, but just enough to make out the words.
"Are.. um you okay?"
"Let's see Teiya," he suddenly turns around and takes two giant steps toward me. I'm was just few feet away, but now close enough to extend a hand and touch his chest. Face to face, he continues,
"I out of the blue I fall in love with the girl I haven't seen in half a decade, dump the girl I wanted to marry and now my best friend is in love with her. So I don't know. Guess how I'm doing from a scale of 1-10."

"Uh.." Shocked by the sudden vent of emotions from him and if you know Justin, it's pretty difficult for him to open up to you.
"Exactly Teiya." Tear are streaming down his face and his voice is trembling more then ever.
"You don't know what I'm dealing with right now so just stop and GO AWAY!"
With the built up anger and anxiety, he slaps me right on my left cheek and a stinging sensation raise to it. A rise of heat blows up on my face and I clutch my hand to it.
Tears by me also are rolling down my face by pain and by the feelings that have been building and building up inside of me. Cries fill the room but then I sniffle and stop when I see the girl in the bed gasp.
Justin and I both stop to see.. Nina.
She has woken up.


PART 30 (Wow.. I can't believe I have written 30 parts already.. 😬)

12:04 PM
Christmas Day
December 25, 2024

POV: Luis

Oh, Alison.. I can still see her little face and her gentle hand wiping away the blood from my face and hair that wretched night  in the parking lot. A smile was slowly spreading across my face from the warmth of her hands and the heat of the moment, but now how could I smile? She doesn't remember me or anyone else now. She won't get to know me and now I have to carry the burden of her killing Tyler. She didn't mean too and heck, she didn't even know that would happen. It would kill her to know that she is living with the blood of a man's life even though she didn't know him. It would destroy her, like it did in high school. I will not let her be crushed just by the thought of hurting anyone.
Every single day I wonder if I should tell her. She deserved to know the truth right? Did she need to know the information that would cause her internal suffering, or should I just keep silent and wait until it was my last breath. Arguing with myself, I decided to let it go, and to keep an oath of silence just to keep her safe.


She told me what happened on that day. Coming over to his house, she wanted to impress him by saying she could help him "fix" his car. By now, you could probably see where this will go. Bringing her little tools with her and the hope that she won't break anything was not enough from keeping her from doing so. The brake wasn't adjusting so she unscrewed the pieces like Tyler told her too. One by one dropping them to the ground.  Tyler checked the brake to see where it went wrong before. But alas.. When putting the little screws back in, she didn't screw it back on tight enough causing the breaks to not work correctly. Of course, silly little Tyler had no idea of the mistake she made. When the red Ford truck came crashing into the green Honda HR-V, that's when he realized resignedly that it was too late to go back. Saving Nina was his last thought instead of saving himself.

Nobody except of me now knows what really happened that day. But now, she will never know what happened the night of Tyler's death.


PART 31

Christmas Day
12:04 (same time as before but different POV)
December 25, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
10 degrees F

POV: Nina

*heavy breathing*

Again. I wake up but not to the cloudy grey and dark blue skies. I don't hear the beeping of the cars and the sound of tires splashing through puddles that have collected rain before. I don't smell the "outdoors" after rain scent. I don't feel the rough cement underneath the palms of my hands.
At first, I see nothing.
I then come to my senses and realize that I'm not even outside anymore.
But, I see a ceiling; an off white color shaped in square vents.
I hear screaming, but I can't make out the words they are saying.
I smell plastic and disinfectant.
I am in a hospital.
How long was I out for? Why are they screaming? Where exactly am I? Who am I?
Wait, wait, wait.
Calm down.
Deep breath in..
Deep breath out..
In... Out...
I am in a hospital and my name is Nina Dang.
I try hard to focus my eyes on the people arguing in front of me but they stop. The girl has tears streaming down her face and is clutching her hands to her cheek. He, on the other hand, was panting and staring deep into my eyes. Teiya and Justin.
Teiya scurries out of my room leaving me and Justin alone.
I'm speechless. Why was Teiya holding her cheek like it was on fire? Did Justin hit her?
A sudden instinct rolls over me and I start worrying and sweating.
He walks over to me with small gentle steps at a time. I push my body upwards and all the way backwards until my back touches the head board of the bed.
"Nina..." he says relieved.
I'm guessing I've been out for a while because it looks like it has taken a tole on him. His face looks exhausted and the panda like circles were forming around his eyes.
I say urgently,
"Stay away."
"You know, don't you.."
"Just back away, leave my room and call the doctor, nurse, or anyone."
"Okay..okay.." He says slowly backing away toward the door leading into the hallway. He takes one last longing looks and me and exits my room.


Once he leaves, I'm all alone with my thoughts just buzzing around in my head.
He actually hit her!? Well he technically did admit it to me.
Dominic and Luis come rushing into my room. Giselle, Sunshine and Alison follow all holding large paper bags containing wrapped presents. Is it Christmas already?
I look to the clock reading, 12:07 PM, and underneath the time, it said, December 25, 2024.
Everyone looks the same. Giselle still tall, but with long curly think hair almost covering her literally flawless face. Dominic super tall and slender towering over my bed. Sunshine hasn't changed much, but cut her hair to nearly shoulder length with dyed blond tips. The spunky Elyssia comes running in after the rest with a bright face. She as well as Dominic grew a bunch and her hair was tied into a tight braid. A guy slightly smaller than Dominic sits down and racks his hands through his hair; Luis. I see Marissa peeking out from the corner of the room. My eyes light up to see her.
"Marissa!"
She comes in and gives me a nice warm hug like she always gives me.
Everyone's face seemed excited, happy and over all energetic to see me finally awake except for Alison. She has a look of confusion (well technically she always looks like that) and she seemed even more awkward around everyone else. Like she didn't belong.
I push the ugly thought to the back of my mind and just focus on the positives, but the thought that Justin hitting Teiya chilled me down to my core.
Everyone shot me questions and greetings.
"Are you okay?"
"Do we need to call the doctor?"
"We are happy to see you finally awake!"
"Oh my goodness.. NINA!!"
I respond,
"Uh yes I'm fine, Justin is already calling the doctor and I'm happy to see you guys too!"
For once in my life, I felt united, relieved and just at peace. Knowing my crazy life, that feeling didn't last long.
"AHHHH!"
We all turn it heads toward the direction of the noise. All of us recognized that scream. It was a scream of one of our own.


PART 32

Still Christmas Day..
12:25 PM
December 25, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
12 degrees F

POV: Teiya

He..he hit me.
Memories flash by of protection, hugs and love. Warmth and heat are replaced by dark, cold and heartless actions. What have I done? Have I created a monster?

As I stumble into the hallway of the hospital, tears and tears roll down my face.  My vision is blurred and my legs are wobbling to the point where I can barely stand. Why would he do this? What did I do to deserve this heart ache and physical pain? I hold my hot cheek in disbelief and just go. Again. Where am I going? I feel unacceptable and different everywhere I go. Alison, not remembering our sweet and sour memories together as kids, Dominic being there for me, but I rejecting him with no second thought and Justin being the man that I love and still love after even this!?
I look down at my hands, trembling and shaking. What do I do now? Do I report him to the police? Do I-
"Teiya. Wait!"
My thought are interrupted by coarse voice. It was Justin.
No no no. I need to get as far away from him as possible. But I'm too slow and he pulls my arm. I feel the rough texture of his skin.
"AHH!"
I look at him with a face of disgust and fear. I'm startled by his sudden touch like he were to hit me again.
"Please," I beg, "Please. Just get away from me."
He lets go of my arm and just looks deep into my eyes. His eyes have a glossy look to them as if just fresh with tears.
"I-I didn't mean-"
"You didn't mean to!?"
He was speechless.
"You were the one that broke my heart. Wait. No you didn't just break my heart, Justin."
It was difficult to say his name again without trembling.
"You burned it. To ashes.. so now. I can't feel love anymore."
I picture Dominic's innocent face. Him spilling out his feelings, emotions, everything to me. But for some reason, I just can't accept his love.
"Teiya.." Now, liquids are streaming down his face by my heart tearing words.
"Just please," I beg ," Please. Get AWAY from me."


He backs away slowly and awkwardly until his face finally disappears under the darkness of my heart.


PART 33

Still Christmas Day..
12:45 PM
December 25, 2024
LaGuardia Clinic
NYC, New York
12 degrees F

POV: Narrator

Continuing on that Christmas day,  Giselle and Sunshine brought presents for everyone since they were finally reunited and brought together even though with a tragic event. The room was filled with awkward silence. But to recap everything if you don't remember, Justin is in love with Nina, he then dumped Teiya, but Dominic is in love with Teiya. Justin hit Teiya too and like everything with them is just.. Weird.. Also, an attacker stabbed Alison and now she doesn't remember who everyone is, plus Luis is in love with her. Oh and btw, Nina is awake now.. So now all caught up, back to Christmas Day.

Back to what I was saying... Christmas Day, presents, tears, joy and yet anger.
Sunshine and Giselle pass around presents to everyone. Trying to keep the spirit up, they both thought that a little act of kindness would maybe bring them back to what they once were.
Every seemed distant and awkward. Especially Alison. But who could blame her? Having lost her memory and now suddenly being thrown into a life full of chaos and drama. It was her old life and even when she knew what was going on, she was stressed and down. But now, not having a single clue of who the people are, their personalities, problems and what they thought of her. Pushing it to the back of her mind, she went along. Smiling when everyone else was smiling, laughing when everyone else was laughing and was silent when everyone else was silent. Right now was that time.
As they passed around the presents, Nina sat high up on her bed joyous of her new gifts, but confused in the new drama occurring between both Justin and Teiya. Dominic was the first to open his presents since he seems to always be the first in everything really. He got a watch with a green blue band and large face. It went well against his warm skin tone and tan arms. Luis also got a watch but different color scheme; black and red.


This match his maroon sweater and dark cool brown boot/ shoes.  Hugs were exchanged between everyone. Wrapping paper scattered on the floor and smiles and laughter filling the air. Except. Every one seemed to know that it was all fake. They weren't feeling happy or glad at all, they just wanted to make it seem that way so that both Alison and Nina don't feel overwhelmed in their new "setting." In actuality..

One person is walking out in the cold alone outside not knowing what to do with his life now.
Another is standing clueless in the middle a the hospital not know what she should do next.
Another lost in confusion but doesn't want to disappoint.
Another is depressed, and suicidal.
And another doesn't want her to know the truth.

All of them have one thing in common. Confusion of what was going to happen next. They all thought that the worse was upon them, that every thing was finally going to get better. But little did they know that something even more destructive was coming their way.


PART 34

5 days later
December 30, 2024
11:56 AM

POV: Dominic

It's been a few days since Christmas Day and Teiya hasn't been answering my calls, texts and hasn't been home. She never told me what happened that night neither did Justin. Oh.. And Justin.. He won't even look at me. Like I murdered his family or something. I asked him what happened that day and where Teiya was like a jillion times. I got the same answer every-time I asked.
"I don't know."
I could tell by the smell of his breath, the stains on his shirt and by the look on his face that
1. He's back to drinking.
2. Has been doing nothing for the last 5 days which means he has been missing his job.
3. He wants to hurt me..

I grew worried, depressed and just grumpy all the time. I've been having bad thoughts that I shouldn't be having. Just sometimes I feel like I should just end it. No one loves me, I have no one. Teiya's disappeared, Justin hates my guts, Luis isn't acting the same and Alison doesn't even remember who any of us are!?
Unconsciously and unsteadily I slowly carry myself to my closet. In my room, passed my bed and at the back of the drawer there is a vault. Spinning the knob with shaky hand.
0
2
1
2
A gradual smile spreads across my otherwise blank face with the memory of that code.
02/12 was the day I had the guts to kiss her. Her soft gentle face. It was February 12, 2016. Talking about Valentine's Day and all the hearts around gave a "romantic" feeling all over the classroom. After school, we were silly and weird. Her laughter radiated out of her and made me more attracted. We kissed and that was when I realized that I truly loved her.
The memory slow fades away and I'm back standing in front of my safe. I take two hands and hold the gun out in front if me. Can I do it? Should I do it. Should I end my already miserable life. Would this be easier?!
Tears run down my face but I can't do it. Dropping down to my knees I sob for a minute or two until I realize one thing. I just need to talk to her before I do this.

I shove the gun carefully and softly into my backpack. I just need to see her face one more time before I do. Once I do, I'll know that it's the right time. The right time to finally be at peace.


PART 35

December 31, 2024
12:15 AM
10 degrees F

POV: Dominic

My hands sweaty and trembling I slowly dial the number.
212
Maybe I shouldn't call her..
671
Maybe she's actually dead that's why she won't answer my calls..
4209
Nah.. It's Teiya. She is strong independent and can handle anything herself..
Beep
Beep
Beeeepp
Please leave your message at-
I curse under my breathe. I've left 11 messages for the past now 6 days.
"Teiya. Come home right now. Please. Come home.."
"I'm going to kill my self. Please someone help me!" I scream at the phone and throw it to the ground. Phones these days are even bullet proof.
The next one message with just sobs.

I don't know what to do. I lay on a park bench. Alone. Soaked in my own sweat and tears. Contemplating on life or death. I don't really know what's saving my life right now. Is it the fact that I have too many regrets? Is it that I want to find love that won't stab me in the heart. Either way, it's keeping me alive and I'm not sure whether that's a good or a bad thing.


PART 36

POV: Narrator

"Luis!! Please help. Dominic is going to commit suicide. Hurry he's At Bryant Park!"
"Wait wait wait. Slooww down."
"No Luis. I'm scared. Help him. He needs us."
Luis pauses for a second recoiling his thoughts coming up with a plan of attack.
"Call 911. Get to the park as soon as possible and try to calm Dominic down.
"Luis. What if this doesn't work? What if-"
"No what if's Teiya. Just call 911 and get there as soon as possible. Leave me with the rest."
Luis hangs up the phone and Teiya sprints to a cab.
"GET ME TO BRYANT PARK NOW!" She yells at the driver. The car screeches at the sound of her loud, booming voice.
She's been living off of 7/11 slurpees and pizza at a hotel about 8 minutes drive from the park.
"911, 911, 911," Teiya mumbles to her self in the back of a smelly cab as her fingers press rapidly to the key pad.
"911 what's your emergency?" A calm lady greets me.
"My friend is about to commit suicide at Bryant Park."
"Are you with the person at the moment?"
"No- I'm driving there right now."
"The police are on there way. Please stay on th-"

Teiya hangs up the phone as she jumps out of the decelerating car to one of her best friends.
"Dominic! Dominic?!"
Teiya yells at the top of her lungs. Searching the park and yelling like a maniac she a bright blue backpack catches her sight at the top of the bridge. That's Dominic's work it back pack!
2 shadowy figures are on top of the bridge. One holds a gun up to their head. Dominic. And one is holding their hands up as in an act to calm down the other. Luis.
Teiya run and run as fast as You can to stop these horrendous actions. Go Teiya. Shes pushes her legs to go faster but Shes too late.
Before Shes can get to the bridge. She hears screams.
"Dominic! Calmm downn"
"NO! I DONT WANT TO CALM DOWN."
Streams and streams of tears run down Dominic scratched up face. He throws his back pack to the floor. His own body a light red and heavy breathing fills the air. A single droplet falls to the ground as Teiya watches this moment. To see him so destructive to the point of death.
Her feet stay still like glued to cement. She couldn't move anymore. Just listen and trust Luis could handle it.
"Dominic," Luis says as he takes a step forward to him, "you can stop this."
"No." Dominic shakes his head and runs his other hand through his soaked hair.
"You have me Dominic. Please just put down the gun. "
"I DONT WANT TO PUT DOWN THE GUN, LUIS!"
Started by his sudden raise if voice Luis jumps backwards.
"This.. Me... I....  Can't be stopped."
"Dominic!! You can't die on me!!"
"I'm sorry. It's too late. Inside, I'm already dead." He shuts his eyes an pulls the trigger.
"DOMINIC NO!!" Teiya screams at the top of her lungs and falls on her knees to the ground.


PART 37

POV: Dominic

The last thing I see is her face looking straight at me. I give a slight smile and shut my eyes close forever.
The last thing I hear is the ringing of Teiya's voice.
Then it's pitch black.


PART 38

POV: Teiya

It all happened in slow motion.
First the gun
Second the blast
Then the thumps of bodies landing harshly on the ground.
The world turned dull and soft. I used all the energy I have left to push myself to the 2 bodies that lay on the ground. Before I could keep myself from breaking down, fear and confusion rolled over me as I corner one of the trees revealing the bridge; open and red.
I stumble onto it my vision blurred from fresh tears building up in my eyes. Gun on the ground in the hand of Dominic. I put my head onto his chest out of instinct to feel heart beat, breathing or any sign of life at all.
Thump.. Thump... Thump..
He's alive.
I grasp him in my arms grateful that he's still on this earth. Grateful that I can still see him breathing, living and in my life. But then I remember the second body that lie right beside Dominic.
Luis.
A gun wound shot right at his neck.
No..no..no....
"I thought he-"
I rush to his body to also check for a sign of life feeling a heart beat but knowing that he will be dying soon because of the wound to his neck.
I cradle Luis. Unaware of the sirens and people suddenly around me.
"LUIS!!"
I scream wanting him to hear me. Please.. Luis don't leave us. He promised he would take care of everything. He promised he'd take care of me and Dominic but never himself..
He coughs out words that I don't understand accept "Ali-Ali.."
I see her in the corner of my eye. Blinking and standing still seeing Luis's body. She comes over as I pass him to her.
She holds him in her arms her face only inches away from his. She whispers something in his ear but my ears don't catch the words. She holds his hand making sure he doesn't leave her but it doesn't work. She kisses his lips as if she remember what they feel like. He smiles. But it disappears as he says,
"You- you.. killed.. Tyler.."
"No Luis. You don't need to say that. I love you... Please.. Don't leave me. Don't go away."
He doesn't respond as his head lay limp in her arms and the fingers tangled within hers lay open and wide.

Those words that Luis said shock me but pass my mind as I'm suddenly being pushed away from both bodies.
"No!! I can't leave him. Please!!"
I hear Alison's desperate shouts as she too was being dragged out of the way. I go to her and grasp her hand. She jilts but soothes as she realizes it's was just me.  The medics take us to the bench where they gave us a big silver blanket. Both Alison's and my eyes were red, dark and blank when we see Luis's body being carried away in a gurney.
A black blanket covering his face.
Alison turns to me with trails of tears falling down her face. I don't know what to say so I just hug her tight feeling the tears also falling down my shoulder.
I look behind me as I see Dominic also on stretcher but medics surrounding him so I don't see his face. I slight smiles spread across my face knowing he's alive.
Alison doesn't speak for the next 5 minutes until she says one thing that changes everything.
"I finally remembered who he is,"
She turns and looks at me deep into my eyes,
"Who everyone is."