BARNABY – after episode 25
Just a city boy
Born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train
Goin' anywhere
Barnaby didn't know - and didn't care - where the train was going. Beautiful landscapes were passing outside the window but he didn't see; high quality Colombian coffee was served, but he didn't savour it. He felt numb, boneless, and wishing more than ever to be able to sleep without being plagued by nightmares. The effects of the excitement and frantic activity of the last days were starting to surface.
"So, what are you doing now that we're both retired, Bunny?"
"I think I'm traveling for a while, Kotetsu-san. See the world. Find out more about myself - the real me, not the Barnaby who was influenced by Maverick's powers."
He had sounded so placid and content saying those words. He knew it wouldn't be easy but was sure he would be able to overcome the aftermath of Maverick's death and the end of his partnership with Kotetsu. He just didn't expect the shock, the horror of everything that happened few weeks ago to sink in and hit him full force just now, when all the physical wounds were healed, all the practical issues were solved and all he had to do was to rest.
His cell phone rang briefly, announcing a message. Barnaby picked it up, more out of habit than a real desire to see it.
To: Bunny-chan
From: The awesome Kotetsu-san and family
The message had a video attached. A click, and Kotetsu's toothy grin filled the screen.
Hey, Bunny-chan! Are you enjoying your trip? Yes? No? Here's a little something to cheer you up!
Kotetsu ran back to where his family was gathered. It seemed to be the living room. Kaede was holding Barnaby's autographed poster, Anju had a plate full of some kind of Japanese food and Muramasa, a bottle of sake.
Thank you for the poster, Barnaby! I'll frame it and hang it in my bedroom!
Barnaby-san, Kotetsu told me you like Japanese food. Whenever you wish, please come visit us and I will cook some real fried rice and not that garbage my useless son makes!
Mother!
Well, only an idiot would ruin a good, Japanese recipe with mayonnaise!
Barnaby-san, I'm saving a bottle of our best so we can drink together!
The video ended with the whole family waving goodbye and Kotetsu giving a thumbsup towards the camera.
Barnaby let out a strangled sound, something between a laugh and a sob. He wiped the tears and replayed the video again and again, holding the cell phone as if it were his most precious belonging.
That night, he slept well.