The Lilac People

by Milo Todd

“I hope you know that I don’t do any of this to you to be cruel. I do it because I want you to live. I want you to be happy, even if it’s not completely. But at least happier than you are now.” Karl’s head was already on the pillow, his eyes closed. “And it’s not my intention to cause you trouble in return. I have a lot inside of me right now. I’m sorry for what I said to you.” “That’s alright.” His eyes remained closed. “I’m afraid of what could happen if I finally let it out. And I’m afraid of what could happen if I never do. Poison has been swimming inside me for the past eleven years. I’m worried I’ll poison you, too.” “If we haven’t been poisoned yet, then it’s not going to happen.” Bertie forced a smile then. “And good luck trying to poison Sofie. When you’re ready to let it out, we’ll be right there to bring you back to the world.” Karl managed a small grin then. It faded. “Thank you, Bertie. You two have—” his voice broke a moment. “You’ve reminded me what kindness is. I just hope I can repay you someday.”