The One That Got Away

by Nicky James

“Because they’re your favorite,” a voice from the abyss said. Without warning, darkness blanketed my vision, my ears rang, and I couldn’t breathe.

I studied Archie for another minute before piercing Sofia with a hard glare. “Stop fucking drugging him. He doesn’t like it.” Then I marched down the stairs and left.

I wasn’t sure I was a deserving enough person to be worthy of any more of Charlie’s firsts.

And there were hands on mine. Warm hands. Comforting hands. Sage and sweetgrass. Then there was nothing.