around, the hate and even the empty threats, I do my best to make the mantra work. Sometimes, it does. Usually, well...

I can’t let that happen. I'm committed to getting this over with as soon as possible. I close my eyes just as Teruya looks away and attempts to bridge the gap between us and the thing.

I do my best to purge the anger, the fear, the confusion, the outright dysphoria from the situation. I meditate, I let go, letting everything fall away far more efficiently than I ever thought possible.

YouTube.

College.

Bills.

Comments sections.

Mom and Dad.

Dakota.

Monique...

"Jaqk?"

It's Teruya. I still feel his hand on my shoulder, still feel mine on his, so why does he sound miles away?...

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