The Sound of a Gunshot

Attention: Major spoilers if you haven't finished the series!

A/N: I realize Cowboy Bebop's ending is somewhat ambiguous... or at least Spike's fate is. I've heard/seen several debates centered around that fantastic final scene. But for me, that was it, I believe Spike died, so this is about his final thoughts. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Cowboy Bebop or any of the characters in this story. All quotations are direct quotations from the series.

Well where do I go from here...

The sound of a gunshot still resonated through his ears. He looked up from Vicious' body, now a lifeless heap, his blood being soaked up by the same scarlet-colored carpet. He thought of Julia. Of his last moment with her just hours before.

"It's all... a dream," She had told him in her final moments.

"Yeah, just a dream." And with those parting words, he watched the life drain from her eyes, her body went limp in his arms. Her lids shut, locking, threatening to forever keep him out of her sight.

Just a dream... how can I wake up now? Now that I've done what needed to be done. Does that mean this is finally the end?

He took one step.

I don't think I'll be making it back to the Bebop, Jet. Not this time.

He shuffled his feet. Took another step. His footsteps sounded heavy as he dragged them across the floor. His breathing sounded even heavier.

Julia, I never wanted you in the middle of this.

He took another step, his legs wobbling slightly, he had already lost quite a bit of blood. The gash across his abdomen stung. He brought a hand up to the gash and held it as tight as he could, but he was too weak now to apply much pressure.

I know this probably isn't going to do a damn bit of good.

He took another step. And another. He didn't remember the staircase being this long when he ran up. His head felt light. He would collapse soon. He couldn't take another step.

Vicious... you were right. We were destined to end like this.

He fought to straighten his neck, try as he might, his head still hung low. His gaze could barely move from the floor, but he knew the others were looking at him, staring like they were seeing a ghost.

I hope you shitheads enjoyed the show. Looks like I won't be coming back for an encore.

He fought against the pain. It wasn't hard to do.

I barely can feel it. Maybe I never was alive after all. Maybe I have been dreaming this whole time. Julia, maybe I'll be waking up with you soon.

A small grin played around his lips. He couldn't help it. He remembered what Faye said to him before he took off.

"You told me once to forget the past, cause it doesn't matter, but you're the one still tied to the past, Spike."

I was tied to the past... But there is no use in hanging onto it anymore. Well, it's too late to change that now... Sure wish I had a cigarette... Huh, these guys still looking at me? What? Are they waiting for me to do 'em next? Idiots. I don't even have my gun on me.

He lifted his head up as best he could to the others level. His eyes were stained with tears, though he didn't realize he'd been crying. His shirt was soaked in blood- his or Vicious'? He wasn't sure, probably both- It clung to his stomach. Fresh, warm blood oozed through his fingertips.

Yes... This is just a dream.

It was finally over. Spike outstretched a shaking arm, fist clenched, thumb out and index finger extended.

I lived by the gun. Only to end by the sword.

"Bang." He said softly, releasing his fingers and falling into a heap on the staircase.

Closing his eyes, his mind drifted out of consciousness.

Bang.

A/N: Hmm. I'm a bit iffy about this one. I don't know if I did the ending justice. But I suppose that is for you, the reader, to decide. So please review and I'll be one happy camper!

See you later space cowboys/cowgirls...