Valentine  I glued my eyes at the ceramic vase filled with colorful flowers as the nurse prepared the first aid kit. At the first look, I thought they were fresh flowers until I moved a little, and I instantly recognized them to be fake. It seemed too easy to replace fresh flowers with plastic ornaments just because they last forever. “This is going to sting a little bit,” The nurse warned as if I don’t already know that it will sting.“I know.” I coughed. I know it’s just a sting, but that’s the whole point of this damn situation. It’s just a small sting, and that’s entirely nothing compared to what I am currently feeling right now. I’ve got cuts and bruises all over my lips and face, but it’s totally strange that I don’t feel them at all. All I’m feeling right now is the sharp claws of misery scratching every inch of my in

Valentine  “Hi, Nick. It’s me, Valentine, again. It’s been three weeks since you haven’t returned any of my calls. I’m just worried that something bad happened to you. I’ve been visiting you every day, but your mom and sister always tell me that you went out. I just think we really need to talk, you know. Please call me back.” I stared at the screen of my phone for a while and eventually putting it back in my pocket after it locked on its own. I gripped the steering wheel and looked at Dominic’s house one last time before finally starting the engine and driving to work. I’ve been doing the same routine every day, and honestly, I’ve never been committed like this before. I always wake up early just so I’ll have some time to drive and hopefully catch Dominic. Unfortunately, I always end up disappointed. I know Mrs. Warren and Collene were lying to me about Dominic b

Dominic  The sun was still up high as I was taking my miserable path home. Walking appeared to be the only answer for me to slowly take everything in and not break down at the very same time. The euphony of suffering seemed to be painted on my face, but it sure was playing immensely inside my head. By the time I got to the penthouse, I was extremely exhausted both emotionally and physically. I threw myself on the bed and slept almost instantly. When I woke up, the sun had already set, and the skies were dyed with a striking purple hue. I took a shower and did what I always do. I stood under the cold shower for about ten minutes, and I thought I’m not going to cry, but my tears cascaded along with the water. It took me almost thirty minutes before I finally decided to get out of the shower, and even though I felt refreshed, I clearly know that I’m already withered on the inside. I immediately thought of going out drinking, and when I say

Valentine “Hey man, I don’t necessarily think you’re back at square one. If he is your true destiny, then all roads shall lead towards him.” Ozzy added. It’s pretty apparent that he’s trying to do some damage control right after dropping the bomb to my face.“I hope so. I really hope so.” I let out a heavy sigh. It was really a heavy sigh that it prompted Ozzy to give me a sympathetic look.“Well, I guess you are in luck. My shift doesn’t start in thirty minutes. I can definitely help you find him. I’ve been working here for several years and I’m sure, I’ve met this person once or twice.” Ozzy uttered, and it sounded so much like music to my ears. It’s not an immediate solution to my problem, but if he really worked here for a long time, then I’m pretty certain he might’ve seen or even talked to Dominic at some point. Dominic loves to drink his pai

Valentine “Dominic?” I piped in such exhilaration. “Are you awake? Hey! Dominic!” I stood up and looked straight at Dominic’s face with my bloodshot eyes and unkempt hair. I thought he was still unconscious at first, but then he started giggling.“You’re so loud. You woke me up!” Dominic teased.“Thank god you’re awake!” I squealed and hugged him.“Awwww. Careful, I still have injuries.”“Oh, sorry! I’m sorry!”“You look awful Valentine!” Dominic confessed, and I can’t help but agree and laugh with him. I fished my phone and used it as a mirror to try and fix my awfulness.“You look awful too!” I jested while combing my hair with my fingers.“And you smell like shit.” Dominic volleyed back.“Oh,” I said and paused to check myself. I really do