Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction for entertainment purposes only. The characters and concepts of Hardcastle & McCormick do not belong to me, but to their creators.
KIDDO
Hey, kiddo--you asleep?
Long day for both of us.
I realize that I shouldn't have gotten mad.
It wasn't your fault.
I don't know why I do things like that.
The fire inside flares and explodes.
You're just in its way when it goes off.
Is it because I had no fire for so long?
Ten years of cold, dark nights.
The days weren't much better.
No feelings—happy, sad, or angry.
Feelings make you cry.
I'm a man—I just can't.
Life pushed me away. Or did I do it to life?
Don't look at others. Don't care. Shut them out.
Seeing means remembering.
Impatient and defiant. I really don't care.
God is missing in action. He is ignoring me.
People walk by me on the sidewalk.
Get them before they get you.
Fight your enemies...but, sometimes your friends, too.
They don't understand.
I don't need their help.
Or do I?
I know I lose my temper too much with you.
And most of the time, you probably don't deserve it.
But hitting out makes me live.
Blows against my walls—trying to get free.
I'm in a prison, myself.
Sorrow and regret, shame and fear.
I can't tell them I love them, now.
But I can tell you.
You gave me a warm sun on my face.
You gave me a strong shoulder to lean on.
Not that I need it--I can stand on my own two feet.
But, it's an anchor to hold me firmly in place.
No drifting any more.
You gave me an ear to listen...well, most of the time...to my tirades against evil.
You watch over me in times of danger.
You are my friend.
You care...even through the pain I give you.
Hitting you with blows and words.
You know I don't mean them.
So, why do I act that way?
You stand by me when I'm down.
And lift me up to see the stars again.
I'm sorry for only showing you my anger.
I never tell you the truth of what I feel.
But, I hope you know that deep inside,
I love you, kiddo.