This was my choice. I chose the path of the hero. I chose to endure the pain and the hardships, I had every opportunity to leave all of this behind and sit on the sidelines, but I continued to walk the path.
Ever since the accident in the lab two years ago I have been the reluctant hero. I tried to just be a normal 16-year old kid, but I am far from normal and I've made peace with that. Being the average everyday Joe Schmoe is just not in my genes. I am Danny Phantom, protector of the world of the living from the world of the dead.
I've long since forgotten what it's like to not have to be bandaged up on a daily basis by your own girlfriend. I've grown accustomed to seeing my own blood. I'm not bothered by the constant threats on my life. I know it sounds crazy, but it's all part of the job.
I am a hero. I would lay my life on the line to protect you without question. When I became The Phantom two years ago I knew what I had to do. Keep my city and everyone that I care about safe from every dangerous ghost you could imagine. I almost lost sight of this, but if it wasn't for Sam I would have fallen from the path a long time ago. She's my rock. I don't know what I would do without her. Well, I do know and it's not pretty.
The pain is sometimes unbearable, but I try to not let it show. She applies the gauze like an expert now. Considering how often I need it that shouldn't be surprise though. On plus side I heal fast, just not fast enough. I wish I didn't have to see Sam cry, fear is my least favorite of all of her emotions. She's far too pretty for that.
"I'm sorry." I said through gritted teeth. She finished applying the last of the bandages and looked me straight in the eyes.
"Sorry for what? I'm used to bandaging you up by now." She wiped a stray tear from her eye, "Besides what's date night without a little gauze?"
"Sam, you know what I mean." I said clutching my rubs as I tried to stand. "This isn't fair to you. Everyday I come to you with either a giant gash or broken ribs and I watch you cry as you patch me up. You deserve better than that!"
Sam walked over to me hugged me tight. "If you think for one second Daniel James Fenton I'm gonna let you leave me so you can protect me you have another thing coming!"
"Sam..."
"I knew what I was getting into when I accepted this." She flashed me the 'Wes' ring, "We are in this together Danny." She kissed me. This kiss felt like it erased all of my pain. With that one kiss I was reminded why I needed Sam. To pick me when I am at my lowest. I need her in my life possibly more than she needs me.
And just like that our kiss was interrupted as a familiar chill overtook my body.
"Oh come on!" I groaned, "Sam, I'm-"A finger was placed on my lips.
"I know Danny," She gave me a passionate kiss which is a silent promise between the two of us for me to come back. "Go get 'em Phantom."
"I'm going Ghost!" I yelled as I jumped out the window and took flight.
This is my gift to the world and the curse Sam and I must bear together. I will always have those moments when I want to leave the path behind, but I know I won't. I will always be the protector. I will always walk the path of the hero.
