Young and Beautiful

In 1920s California, Ryan remembers his relationship with a mysterious playboy with an obsession with his friend Taylor. Great Gatsby-based, Troy/Taylor, slight Troy/Ryan.


Green Light

1932

I see it whenever I lie in bed at night.

That bright light, that damning light, shining like a star, boring into my memory like the kiss of an old friend or the sweet smell of love. It's a strange light; green and ominous, yet comforting. It beckons me to come closer, but instead all it leads me to is a dark figure, a smile and a house that's as big as the skyscraper. All I could really focus on is that light.

Perhaps that's why I've gone mad; that light always comes to me, bothering me with memories I can't recall. I see it when I go to sleep, when I wake, when I lie in darkness pondering my life. It's there, glowing, inviting, and serene. Nights and mornings seem to slosh together like sweet booze; this hospital room does little to tell time. But as I lie in my bed, wondering if this night would be my last, he comes. Him, in his dapper suit and wide smile. Him, and his magnificent parties and envious wealth. With him I can taste the booze, smell the perfume of beautiful women, hear the music, feel my heart soar as I look at him. See him fade away, like magic. He comes and goes like an angel's kiss, a salvation for my incoming madness.

I look at my doctor, who is busy writing stuff down in his fancy clipboard and expensive stethoscope. I wonder if he truly uses that thing.

"Tell me more about this...Bolton, fellow." He drawls, scribbling away. That loud noise of pen to paper sets me on edge.

"Where do you want me to begin?"