For those of you who are aware in the last chapter…I'll be glad to receive some comments from you all screaming in tears that I killed Sally :D!
Okay, okay, I lied. The ending was really a big tearjerker for me to do. Not only because of the ending, but also to Pizza Steve himself. He knows that once he's given some joy in his life, he would always have to destroy it in the end. And this happens because of Alice. And since Inner Demon is close to the end, that's saying a lot. And yes, were finally at the turning point guys.
But speaking of which, you all may be wondering, what happened to Pizza Steve after he killed Sally? Surely he would go back home, sob about it, and then sees the news report about what happened. But it's something else. A different turn for the worst…
No summary this time especially no quote as well, you have to read it for yourself. Also happy belated new year, and apologies for this chapter being so late. I had a lot of time planning this chapter.
WARNING: THIS STORY CONTAINS VIOLENCE, STRONG LANGUAGE, SUICIDAL THOUGHTS, ATTEMPTED SUICIDE, MENTAL ISSUES, AND HEAVY THEMES. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
Enjoy for now…
Chapter Eight: Lie
My vision was becoming so black…
I feel like that my body is too tired to move. What is happening to me? And why can't I open my eyes?
After what I believe a few seconds, I finally opened my eyes slowly, only to see some light shining on me.
I then gained back my vision as I realized where I was. I was in some kind of room, where I was laying on some hospital bed. There were these wires attached to my body along with some beeping noises. Where am I? And how did I get here?
Just then, the door at the far front opened as a man wearing a white coat, white-shaved hair, and black glasses came inside. I observed the man before me. He seems to be some doctor?
"Ah, I'm so glad that your awake, young man." He said in a soothing, calm voice.
I thought at first that I wouldn't be able to speak, but I was able to. "…H-huh?" I spoke up. "W-where…am I…?"
"Why you're at the hospital."
The hospital?
Why am I at the hospital? Why am I here?
"…But…why?" I asked the doctor.
The doctor's eyes widened. "Oh. You must not remembered what had happened to you. You were in a fire incident at some house."
Wait…
My eyes instantly widened from what I heard. It's all coming back to me now…
(FLASHBACK)
Closing my eyes, I finally pulled the trigger. I kept closing them once I heard a small whimper and a loud thud…
Knowing what I have done, I slowly opened my eyes to witness my mistake. There on the floor was Sally, lying there on her face. Along with some blood oozing out from her forehead. The forehead that I shot with a gun…
After staring at her body for too long, I immediately started to cry. I cried harder for what I did. All this time, I could have been helping out for this poor child. This child who has been going through some tough times due to an illness. And because of that, she and her parents gave me their trust. A trust that I will always be there for Sally…and I shot it. I shot at a trust—no, a promise! To protect them, and look what happened now. I could already imagine people's reactions hearing news about the death of a 5 year old girl and her parents.
How would they react? No, how would they react if the one who she thought I would protect, ended up killing her? How would Uncle Grandpa react? How would my friends react?
It was all Alice's fault. If she hadn't been in the way, then none of this wouldn't have happened!
IT'S HER FAULT!
I then screamed. "DAMN YOU! FUCK YOU ALL TO HELL!" I then banged on the floor. "WHY DID YOU DO THIS TO ME BITCH!? WHY!? WHY DO KEEP DOING THIS!?"
There was no response. Alice must have not given a damn about me…
I kept on sobbing and banging at the same time, trying to hold in my anger. But I couldn't hold it back! I was too enraged by how I was treated as! A pawn, a toy, a puppet! It's all her fault—
…But no…hold on…that can't be it…
I slowly stopped what I was doing and realized something. It wasn't only Alice's fault…
…but it was also mines.
I was the one who obeyed the orders. I was the one who tried to give mercy. I was the one who kept everything away from me, including my friends. And also, I was the one who wanted to see Alice myself, thanks to the summoning spell. It's my fault that this happened. All of it could've been avoided…if I didn't caused it.
I made up my mind.
…I just don't want to exist anymore…
I then went to the kitchen and found a matchbox in one of the cabinets. I walked upstairs and entered Sally's room. Lighting up a match, I threw it at the bed, letting it burn the entire room. Slowly, the fire was starting to grow. When that was finished, I went back downstairs, knowing what to do next…
I looked at Sally's now-dead corpse. It's my fault that I broke my promise to protect her. And now, I'm going to repay it.
A few minutes later, the entire house was going in flames. Time was running out as I slowly lied down next to Sally. I saw the debris crashing down into the floor. It was already time.
I finally closed my eyes…the burning debris crashing on me…
(END FLASHBACK)
I slightly gasped.
The memory came back to me. I actually tried to commit suicide, for what I have done. After a few seconds, I started to cry. I couldn't believe that I did that. I attempted suicide. I felt like I wanted to die from all of the terrible things I have done in the past. I didn't wanted to change, that would be impossible. The only solution I had…was death. But I still survived. I should have died in the fire. I didn't deserve to exist at all…
The doctor tried to comfort me. "It's alright young man. It's okay now." He said.
"N-no! N-no it's not!" I cried, choking back tears.
"It's going to be okay. You must have some trauma from your experience." The doctor explained. "Some firemen saved you from the debris and we tried everything to save you. But thankfully you're alright. But however though, you seem to have your left arm broken. And you're losing a bit of blood it seems."
My eyes widened. Now I remember what happened. Not only did she broke my arm, but I must have received some cuts as well…
"What's even worse is that we've discovered some major cuts and bruises in your body. A few I think may be past wounds." The doctor continued. "But don't worry, dear man. We're doing whatever we can to help you." He pulled out a warm smile. "Trust me."
"T…thank you…" I spoke up, feeling a little better.
"My name is Dr. Grossman by the way. And you must be Pizza Steve, right?"
"Y-yes. Why…?" I asked, a bit confused. How did he know my name?
"You were that patient who came in three years ago. You had your "meatball" cut somehow and we had to take it out. It was pretty risky though but you came out fine right?"
I then remember that day. Before…she came into the picture, my meatball was accidentally stabbed in my stomach by some knife accident back at the kitchen in the RV. Uncle Grandpa and the others were devastated by what happened since I had to go into surgery. But however, I was still fine. My stomach still hurts a little, but it was alright. But after…what happened in the past, the pain was growing all over my body. I just hope that I get out of this hospital alive…
"So unfortunately, we have to give you a blood transfusion in order to save some blood in your body." Dr. Grossman said. "But before we do that, we had to fix up that arm of yours. But don't worry Mr. Steve, everything will be alright."
I couldn't help but pulled out a weak smile. "Thank you doctor."
"No problem. Now I'll be right back. I have some personal things that I have to do. But for now, if you need anything just press the buzzer. And if you want to watch some TV, it's right here on the table next to you." Dr. Grossman then went to the door. "Take care." He then left, the door closing behind him.
And now, I was finally alone…for now…
At least I was going to be treated. In fact I really do need to be treated. Because after all of the pain and misery that I have been through, I really do needed some special care.
I then turned to the TV remote to my right, as I grabbed it from the table. I felt like that I should watch some TV. Maybe to catch what's up. But once I turned on the TV, it was showing a news report. One that I dared not to watch…
"Last night at exactly 12:30 A.M., a fire burned down a house near Audrey Ave. Apparently, a couple and their 5 year old daughter were killed in the fire, except for another person, who is actually Pizza Steve, a friend to everyone's uncle and grandpa, Uncle Grandpa…"
My heart was slowly beating fast. After all of the incidents I caused, I actually managed to be shown in one for the very first time. I couldn't even believe this…
"Sources say that the people killed in the fire were known as Fred and Caroline Fields along with their daughter, Sally Fields. Police are still figuring out what caused the fire, but since Pizza Steve is the only survivor, he is being treated at the local hospital, where he's confirmed to have blood lost, bruises, and a broken arm. But here is more surprising news as well. Investigators discovered that the deceased family apparently have gunshot wounds. Both Sally and Caroline in the forehead, and Fred, two times in the heart…"
My eyes widened very quickly. There getting close to the secret... This cannot be good…
"Later today at 9:00, we will interview Pizza Steve, currently at the local hospital, for questions over what has happened…"
This was it. I was going to be exposed. I knew that this was going to happen. I looked at the time. It was exactly 5:00 A.M. That means it has been a few hours since I arrived at the hospital. Time is slowly running out for me. But then, there was another news report about something else…
"In other news, police are still on the lookout for wanted murderer, 20 year old Hunter Jones. Hunter Jones has been arrested 5 years ago for murdering his entire family. His parents and 10 year old brother. But however, prior to his arrest, he was able to escape. And ever since there has been updates about what he has been doing. Murdering innocent people along with minor killing sprees. Here is his picture…"
I identified the picture before me. He looked actually younger despite being 20. He has short, messy brown hair, black bloodshot eyes, and was wearing what I believe to be a black hoodie. This man definitely looks like a wanted person alright.
"If you have seen this man passing by, please immediately call 911. More news up next…"
I then turned off the TV as I rubbed my eyes off what happened. I couldn't believe this was happening. I have successfully avoided being caught on TV for doing an evil crime. But now, I might be wanted as a homicidal monster. And after all of the people I have actually caused harm and death to their lives, the death of Sally was the final straw for me…
Andy…
"Please, what are you doing to me!?"
Laura…
"Thank you Pizza Steve for making my life happy again from those WRETCHED WHORES! I OWE YOU ONE!"
Riley…
"P-Pizza S-Steve… I…It's gonna be alright! Ever since I was abused by my parents, I-I wanted to find true freedom f-from them… And now, I-I finally have…"
Hal…
"Thank you, Pizza Steve!"
And finally, Sally…
"You're my best friend, Pizza Steve, no matter what!"
All of those people, who I've met over the past few months, didn't deserve this. They didn't deserve such harsh, cruel, and brutal fates. At all. They deserved to have normal lives, including ones that at least won't make them feel depressed. But no, they had to die, and they didn't even deserve it…
And now, I don't know what to do… Either I try to leave this god forsaken world…or just abandon all of those who attempt to talk to me. Everyone, including Uncle Grandpa and the others. I don't want them to have the same fate as the others did. I want them to move on, and to have better lives. And if I keep living, along with her still around, then they will soon end up getting killed by me…
I just want to stay in my bedroom…forever…not to talk to anyone…but myself…
Two hours have passed, and I was still becoming depressed at the hospital. I still appreciated the workers and their hospitality, but then again, I don't want them to become more victims of my mental state…I just don't…
Because the more people I meet, I more I would end up killing them! Not only because of her, but also my own decisions as well!
I snapped out of it once I lightly slapped by face. I don't want to go insane. She isn't here yet, and thank god for that. Because I don't want to see her anymore and her fucking persuasions. Why can't she just rot in hell already?
I then felt my tummy rumbling. I do feel like I needed something to eat. In fact, I have been starving myself for a little while, and I do need a little more nutrients in my body. Or else, I would end up feeling weak. Just then, the door opened as a young nurse came inside, pushing in a tray of food as well. She has brown hair, blue eyes, and red lips.
"Good morning, Pizza Steve." She said in a kind, delicate voice. "How are you feeling?"
After thinking for a bit, I then spoke up. "Alright…for now."
"Well, that's good. We were able to make some nice breakfast for you." She placed the tray of food to the hospital tray and gently moved it to where I was. "Here you go."
I observed the food before me. It was a plate of a freshly-made corn muffin with scrambled eggs, and hash browns. There was even a box of orange juice along with a straw and a plastic fork and knife. Usually, back then, I would go all out by eating stuff like ice cream for breakfast. But you know what, I needed stuff like this to eat. That way I can build up some nutrition.
"Thank you." I said.
"Do you need me to push your bed up for you?"
I then nodded.
The nurse scooted down from my right and pressed a button, which causes the bed to move up a little. There, I can now reach my food. "Thanks again."
"You're welcome. The doctors said that they're bring in the blood pack to start the transfusion once you finished your breakfast. But you'll be better once this is all over." The nurse then went to the door. "Take some time eating. I'll be back once you're finished." She then left the room.
Once that was over, I then started to eat my breakfast. While doing so, I looked at the time. It was only pass 7:00, and soon those new reporter guys will come over to me. They will try to get as much info as possible. No way will I tell them the truth. The entire truth. That would cause me to become a wanted criminal, just like that Hunter person…
I looked at the window and at least admired the view. I must be at the top floor. And looking at the wide view of the city over the rising sun was at least amazing. That at least gave me small hopes for what I'm going to face. As I was drinking my orange juice, I heard a voice in my head…
"YOU HAVE TO TELL THEM SOMEHOW!"
I almost choked on my juice.
No…no, it can't be her. Why now? Why must I hear her voice at the wrong time? I don't want her to come back again…I don't…
"Hello good morning today at Channel 5 news! I am Sharon Stone here live outside at the local hospital! And were going to visit Pizza Steve, survivor of the fire incident last night!"
This was it…time has already ran out. They were already here.
I just hope that the hospital workers would just make them leave already. I don't want to be bothered. In fact, I don't want to tell them the truth. I have already ran out of excuses already. I can't face them, telling the truth while being filmed on TV. Being seen by multiple people, and even worse, my friends. I immediately turned off the TV and prepared for the worse…
Suddenly, I heard a knock on the door.
"Hello? Mr. Pizza Steve? This is Sharon Stone from Channel 5 news! Is it alright to come in?"
I jolted for a bit. They were here. I can't believe the people let them in. I didn't even care anyway. It was time to face them.
Finally, I spoke up. "…Yes, you can!"
Once the door opened, Sharon Stone along with a cameraman came inside. Sharon has short black hair, hazel eyes, red lips, and a red suit and heels. She seems like that she's doing this for her job, but also looks to at least be concerned over me. She then pulled up a chair and sat close to me before turning to the camera.
"Okay, so I am at Pizza Steve's patient room, and of course, next to me is the survivor himself." Sharon said to the camera as she moved her microphone to me. "So tell us Pizza Steve, how are you feeling? Just take it easy and relax."
With nothing else to say, I spoke up. "I feel…damaged. But, for the most part, I'm feeling okay."
Sharon made a warm smile on her face. "That's good to know. And I see right here that you're in the middle of your blood transfusion?"
"Yes."
"I see." She then frowned. "So tell me very carefully, what did happened exactly during the incident?"
"Well…" I then sighed before answering. "I decided to leave my home…and to take a walk outside…" I hoped that they believed it so far…
Both Sharon and the cameraman gave out a slight suspicious look. "Alright then. What happened next?"
I then thought about how to make up another excuse. I then spoke up. "And then…as I reached Audrey Ave….I saw someone breaking in…"
Sharon's eyes widened. "And who was that person?"
This was it. I don't know what to say. My heart was slowly beating out of fear. I got no other option left. But what?
"In other news, police are still on the lookout for wanted murderer, 20 year old Hunter Jones."
I then thought of an idea. I know that it's going to be risky, and I don't want to blame it on someone. Another murderer to be exact. But I have no other choice left…
"…It was actually Hunter Jones…" I said.
This caused Sharon and the cameraman to have their eyes widened in disbelief. Their actually falling for my excuse…
"Oh my god…" Sharon murmured. "What happened next? Did you called 911?"
"…I haven't brought my phone unfortunately. So, I have no choice but to go inside…but I was too late…" I slowly started to tear up, over the memories of what really happened. "H-he shot them…including that little girl…a-and then…" I choked up a little. "…as I was trying to escape…he burned the entire house down…and he left…"
"I-I see…" Sharon said before clearing her throat a little. "So, did he tried to kill you?"
I didn't want to lie more, but I had no choice. "Y-yes, he did, but I was able to avoid him though…"
"Another question. Are you familiar with the Fields' family at all?"
I stopped for a minute. At first, I wanted to say yes. Maybe to tell the story with a bit of an understanding. But a part of me wants to say no, because I don't want them to get even more suspicious. But actually, I don't want to be a part of an incident that I caused, and not someone else. Knowing the obvious answer, I spoke up. "N-no…I don't…"
"I understand. You must have been in tough times haven't you?"
I nodded. "That's all I have."
Sharon pulled out a weak smile. "Thank you for telling us, Pizza Steve. Let's hope that you'll be better soon. Have a nice day." And with that, she and the cameraman left the room.
Once they were gone…I started to cry again…
I can't believe I just lied. But just to protect myself! And the fact that I even blamed it on someone else is wrong. I just blamed on a murderer. One who could be having some mental trauma! And because of that, people now believe me. They actually fell for it. After a few minutes, I then turned on the TV again, the news report still continuing…
"And there you have it. The fire incident was caused by none other than Hunter Jones. Thanks to some info from Pizza Steve, he came into the house where he decided to take a walk around the neighborhood…"
I didn't even want to hear the rest of the report. I just turned off the TV and stared at the ceiling…
I know I was a horrible jerk in the past. But now…I was becoming more horrible than ever…
Once the afternoon came around, my transfusion was complete. The nurse came in and was able to take out the empty blood pack from me. But however, my arm was still broken and it has to be put in a cast. I watched as the nurse bandaged my entire left arm and put it into a blue cast. The pain from it was at least hurting a little. But however, my right arm was still functioning. I was deeply worried about them knowing about the past wounds. I don't want them to think that I've been cutting or something. But I would rather cut myself than being killed in a burning house…
No, I can't keep thinking like this. Let me at least be happy that I get to be treated on. Otherwise, I would've been sent to the mental hospital. One of my greatest fears…
My reality went back on once I turned to the nurse. "This cast will make it all better!" She said to me with a smile. "Are you feeling a little better now?"
"Y-yes…a little." I spoke up a little weak.
"Don't worry, Mr. Steve. That arm will be better soon. Usually a broken arm will be healed at over three weeks, so you'll be fine."
"T-thank you…"
The nurse smiled warmly. "You're welcome. We will send you your lunch in about an hour. Just remember to press the buzzer if you need anything." She then left the room.
As I was once again alone, I stared at the ceiling from up above. When will things get better for me…?
Another hour has passed as the nurse came back, pushing the hospital tray where my lunch was. Once it was moved over to me, I gently sat up and looked at my food. It was a plate of a hamburger opened up with one side being the patty, and the other containing a tomato, lettuce, and some red onions. They tray also had a white container of steamed vegetables, a small pack of red gelatin, and a grape juice box. At least it would taste good. I would consider having some unique items in my burger like cheese or bacon, but I could understand it was made in case of people and their allergies.
I thanked the nurse as she left and started to eat on my burger. As I started chewing, I kept thinking about what I've just done from the news report.
I actually lied to them about what happened. But this time, I blamed it on a murderer. A murderer of all people. One who doesn't even know that I framed him for something I caused. I'm starting to feel guilty. I didn't mean to do this, but I had no choice…
After lunch was over, I was all alone, staring at the ceiling while everything was silent. But it then broke once I heard a knock at the door.
"Pizza Steve, someone's here to see you." It was Dr. Grossman's voice. I hope that the police aren't here. Otherwise, they would tell me further about what really happened…
I then answered. "You can come in."
But once the door opened, Mr. Grossman came inside with Uncle Grandpa, Mr. Gus, and Giant Realistic Flying Tiger. My eyes widened in both shock and disbelief…
They actually came.
"Pizza Steve!" They all shouted as they ran up and gave me a big hug.
"Good morning, Pizza Steve!" Uncle Grandpa said. "We're so glad you're okay, buddy!"
"We thought that you were a goner!" Belly Bag said.
"We watched what happened at the news early morning!" Mr. Gus explained. "I can't believe you would do this!"
Tiger let out a roar. I didn't really know what she said, but I could tell that she was glad to see me.
After giving me a hug, they all looked at me. "So how are you feeling?" Mr. Gus asked.
I didn't even know what to say. My friends, my actual friends, really came to see if I was okay. I thought that they didn't even cared if I was gone. Or even if I actually died. But no, they still cared and they came…
"…G-good…" I attempted to put out a weak smile. "I-I'm feeling alright…"
"That's great, Pizza Steve! Boy we are so happy to see you! We thought that you ended up being toasted for life!" Uncle Grandpa said.
"We were so relieved when the doctor said that your injuries weren't that severe. Luckily we went in to make sure that you were alright." Mr. Gus explained. "By the way, I know this isn't the right time to say this but how did this happen to you anyway?"
My smile instantly faded when I heard his question. I tried my best to come up with a reason. But then again, I explained what really happened from the incident. "I just wanted to take a walk…that's all." I answered.
"I see then. I can't believe that some murderer almost killed you!"
"Yeah, and he was the one who killed Sally and her parents!" I almost gasped when Uncle Grandpa said that. "Why did it had to happen!? She was such a sweet girl!" He started to sob.
Mr. Gus put a reassuring hand on Uncle Grandpa's shoulder. "It's going to be alright Uncle Grandpa. It just happened."
I tried to ignore Uncle Grandpa's wails over Sally's death. No…I don't want to be remembered of it. I don't! My head was slowly starting to bob from my crust. I almost winced as I grabbed hold of it. I didn't want anyone to see me like this.
"Not only is Sally dead, but also Andy, Riley, and those other kids! Why that awful murder must hurt them!? They didn't deserve something like tha—"
"STOP!" I shouted desperately as I winced in pain over the memories in my head. I looked at my friends staring at me as I started to cry. "J-j-just don't…this is too much for me…please…" I begged. I know I may have revealed too much, but the pain was so much to bear.
Uncle Grandpa started to get worried. "Pizza Steve? Are you okay buddy?"
I continued crying. "…N-no more…stop…" I then felt the pain fading away. It was at least getting a little better…
Everyone walked up to me as Mr. Gus gave me a light pat on the back, to calm me down at least. "Hey, hey, calm down." He said softly. "Are you feeling alright?"
Not knowing what to say, I spoke up. "J-just…just give me some time alone… I-I don't want to remember it… I don't…"
"What are you talking about, Pizza Steve?" Mr. Gus said with concern. "Is it about those people being murdered?"
"N-no, it's not…" My throat slowly got hoarse over my sobs. I kept denying the real reason why. I don't want him to know.
"Listen, it's going to be alright, Steve. You must've been too traumatized about what happened recently. I understand how you feel, but you don't have to hide it. We're all devastated by the deaths of those people too. It's not like it's your fault or anything."
But it was my fault. I was the one who did everything—no! SHE WAS THE ONE DID EVERYTHI—
I winced in pain over my throbbing head as I heard them leave out gasps in distress. Those awful memories were hurting my head again. I can't bear thinking about them again.
"Pizza Steve, are you okay?" Uncle Grandpa asked. "It looks like your crust is hurting, buddy!" He then gasped. "It must be falling off! Don't worry, buddy! I'll get some help!"
"No!" I shouted again. I don't want to shout at them again. I just want to keep things calm. "I mean, no. I'm fine. I just need some time to relax… I think visiting hours are over now."
Uncle Grandpa then smiled. "Oh, so that's why! Okay, Pizza Steve! We'll give you some time to rest! But we're gonna give you a surprise when we get back! Take care!"
"Y-yeah, were gonna do that. Just sit tight." Mr. Gus said as he and the others prepared to leave.
I didn't even said a word while they left. I just watched all of my friends leaving my room. But then, Mr. Gus was the last to get to the door. I watched him stop for a second before turning to me. He had some look of concern on his face and it felt a little surprising. From the past years, I haven't seen Mr. Gus felt worried about me from before. It's probably because I've been a complete jerk over the years, and barely did anything caring to the guy. I would always ignore him, thinking that he was just a boring dinosaur, who was always grumpy and had no fun. But he wasn't like that. He was actually a nice person who cares for all of us, including me. And I didn't realized that until the incidents happened. Turning back, he then left the room and closed the door.
And I was now alone once again. I drove out my own friends, all because of me.
Why must this happen now…?
Another hour has passed, and my friends still didn't came back yet…
I wondered why though. Is it because they weren't allowed to come back again for the rest of the day? Or maybe it's because they wanted to give me more time? But I could see that now…
I knew that I would act strange in front of them during their visit. If only they hadn't mention those incidents, then I would at least be fine. My head was hurting so bad from those awful memories. It makes me wonder if I could ever find a way to heal my pain of what I've done. But no, there can't be a cure. There just like battle scars. They can't be removed that easy. I guess I really do want to choose my own options. If I kill myself, it wouldn't be worth it. The last time I tried, I was still alive and ended up here. I guess killing myself would always fail.
But if I stay in my room for a long while, how would Uncle Grandpa and the others feel about this? They would soon try and tell me what is going on, and then they'll know about…her. I now forbid myself in knowing her name ever again. Saying that name is like causing another curse upon me. She is just a fucking devil, a lying bitch. That's all she ever was…
Right now I just want to sleep, but I feel like that person, that dreaded person, may come back to haunt me again. I just don't want to deal with that, but I was so tired from all that trauma. Maybe if I could just watch a bit of some television, then it could probably keep me up. But once I turned it on, there was a news report about something familiar.
"This just in, we just got reports of a local hotel in downtown central with 5 people being shot, two so far were dead. Recent info stated that the shooter behind this was Hunter Jones himself."
My eyes started to widen. It was that Hunter Jones guy again. The same one that I blamed for Sally and her parents' deaths…
"Info states that Jones has been starting another recent crime spree. He had entered the hotel from 4:40, ten minutes ago, and then escaped immediately after the shooting. We are still keeping a lo—huh? What was that? O-oh my god… This just in, we have just received another reports of Jones causing another shootout from a restaurant from the town of Westburrow."
I couldn't take it anymore. I just need to change the channel. I don't want to witness more of this. But the more I kept flipping the channels, the more news of Hunter Jones kept appearing.
"Hunter Jones have just killed a couple from a restaurant in Westbu—"
Again.
"This man who had been on the run for 5 years is continuously killed innoce—"
And again.
"Now why some kid do something so mons—"
And again.
"Police officers are telling people to stay indoors from this homicidal mania—"
And again!
"The roads are not safe at a—"
And again!
"If you have seen Hunter Jones, immediately call this numb—"
AND AGAI—
"And that's all about it today for sports! Back to you, Jeffery!"
…Oh thank god. Now more about this freaking reports—
"Thank you. And now, we'll discuss about the few year anniversaries of the latest deaths from the past season…"
Wait, what was he talking about…?
"From last year, we have been receiving news about some deaths that had happened to some well-known strangers. But now this year, we've, h-hold on… Sorry about that, I'm not feeling myself today. We've been getting news of recent deaths of people that shall not be forgotten. Children such as Andy McCormick, who was confirmed to commit suicide in Death Mountain…"
My heart had started to beat faster than ever. T-they can't be… They're talking about the deaths. The deaths of people I've killed!
"Laura Oliver, who committed suicide from April 10th after murdering her entire family. On April 30th, a teenager named Scott Kelley had tragically lost his life along with his father after being mysteriously murdered…"
I wanted to change the channel until my head started to hurt again. I can hear him talking about those deaths as the memories came back in an instant. I screamed in pain as I dropped myself to the floor. The voices were scrambling around my mind that it was too much for me to hear. They were getting louder and louder as I cried in anguish. I tried to reach for the remote, but some force was holding me back. Just as it can't get any worse, I heard a voice.
"I…it's you… IT'S YOU ISN'T IT!?"
The voice was different as it grew so loud, my ears were almost in pain.
"S-stop! Go away! GO AWAY, PLEASE!" I screamed, begging it to stop.
"JUST DO IT! JUST KILL ME NOW!"
"SHUT UP! JUST SHUT UP! GET OUT OF MY FUCKING HEAD!"
"Pizza Steve, stop!" I then heard another voice, but it was familiar. But I didn't even cared, I want to end!
"NO PLEASE, DON'T!" I kept screaming until I felt like I was being touched by someone.
"Pizza Steve, please calm down and look at me! It's just me!"
I stopped screaming and panicking as I opened my eyes. It was actually Dr. Grossman, holding onto my shoulders and looked at me in concern. And in the room were a few workers as well, wondering if I was alright…
"Pizza Steve, are you alright?" He asked me. "We were getting worried about you."
I just kept staring at him mindlessly for a few seconds. The pain was gone once again, and I didn't heard the voices anymore. Not to mention that the TV was off. Feeling like a fool, I fell into him, sobbing.
I couldn't believe I just did that. I let loose of the pain around me. And now everyone is getting suspicious. I don't even want them to know.
The doctor gave me a reassuring hug. "There now. It's going to be okay. You're safe here." He said rather calmly. "Nothing's going to hurt you were all here."
"…I…I-I'm sorry!" I choked up, trying to dry out my tears. "I'm so sorry…!"
"It's not your fault, just try to relax. Just try and tell me now. What happened to you while I was out?"
I didn't want to tell him. I don't even want to. If I do, they'll know more about me, and I will be taken away for sure. Instead I just kept murmuring, "I-I don't want to…I don't want to say it…"
Dr. Grossman closed his eyes and made a slight nod. "I understand. We will have to keep you under watch for a bit until you are calm. You seemed to be lost from your mind just a minute ago. It's best for us to at least make sure that you're alright. Or else, you'll have to be sent somewhere else if this keeps happening."
I then decided to come up with an excuse. I didn't wanted to be taken to the psychotic ward at all. "N-no, I just had a bad dream. A-and the tv was giving me a nightmare."
"Ah, now I see. It's alright, it was just the news disrupting your sleep. There's nothing to be worried about." He then got up. "Now then, I wanted to come here to give you some pills to bring up your iron. We have gotten some reports that your blood is getting low. So we suggest that you should take these pills for eight hours a day."
"Thank you, Dr. Grossman…" I said with a small nod.
He then helped me get up to my bed before handing me the pill along with a small, plastic cup of orange juice. "Take this will the pill. Usually, vitamin c is required."
I then gulped down the pill with the juice as I attempted to make a weak smile. "T-thanks again…" I said.
Dr. Grossman made a smile. "You are welcome, Mr. Stevens. Now, I have to go back now. Your dinner will come in at 7:00. If you need anything, just press the buzzer." And with that, he then left the room as he closed the door.
And now, I was once again alone in here. I then looked at the outside view from my window. It was getting dark soon. How will I be able to handle this for now on…?
I then attempted to go to sleep again. I closed my eyes and just let myself out…
My eyes suddenly opened from the sound of some echoed screams and banging. I didn't know where it came from, maybe to the TV perhaps. But I looked up to see the TV was still off. Feeling curious, I decided to turn it on, and was able to catch a news report that made me scared.
"We are live right now, just a few blocks away from the local hospital. 20 year old homicidal maniac, Hunter Jones, has been able to arrive into town and break into the hospital. Police officers and emergency units from another town arrived immediately after someone made an emergency call. So far, we are unaware if he plans to take hostages, or god forbid, start another shootout."
I felt l wanted to jump out of my bed. Or worse, even wake up from this nightmare. I couldn't believe it. The murder who I've just blamed earlier is inside the hospital. I could steal hear the screams of workers and maybe patients trying to escape. I didn't know what to do at this point. I decided that the best thing to do was hide until he was gone.
I quickly turned off the TV, and went down under my bed. I even used the bedsheets to help me with my cover-up.
Suddenly, while I was trying to remain calm. I heard some screams getting louder along with the sound of gunshots. He was here...
Then, I heard my door banging. I kept silent, praying that it wasn't him, but to my relief it was just Dr. Grossman. "Pizza Steve, someone broke in and is causing a shootout in there!" He said from outside. I could tell that his tone was pure fear. "I'm coming in so we could—"
BANG!
I was dead silent once I heard that bang and a loud thud. He must've been shot to the ground by that kid. I didn't even know if he was dead or still alive…
I hid deep back under the bed as the door was slammed opened, and I could see some red-colored sneakers walking around in a pace. I even heard some slight breathing as well. Wanting to feel curious, I carefully moved my forehead up a bit, trying my hardest not to make a sound. With one look at who it was, I immediately hid back in fear. It was actually him, Hunter Jones…
But what was he doing here!? Why did he plan on attacking the hospital? Did he saw the news report about me and planned on killing me? I prayed to god that he didn't saw that report. Because if he did, then he will know what he's after.
I could at least try and escape from the window, but then he'll see me from behind. It's best for me to wait and hope that he would go away. I watched his feet walking around his room as I could hear him sounding rather scared. He must have been getting into some serious issues. But while I watched him, I felt the pain coming back again as I almost winced loudly. Damn it, why must that awful pain come back aga—
"Get out from the bed! NOW!" I heard Hunter yelled. He actually heard me.
Not wanting to anger him more, I immediately got out of the bed while trying to brave off the black pistol he aimed at my forehead.
"Put your hands up!" He stammered but had a bit of a stern tone.
I did as I was told.
I don't even know what to do at this point. Either I just try and escape or obey whatever command he wants me to do. But if I did try to escape, then he would kill me on the spot.
"What were you trying to do!? Fucking hide from me!?" Hunter stammered again, his hands shaking worriedly when holding the gun.
I kept silent from him, not wanting to answer. I was losing so many options until an idea popped into my head. I could at least try and talk it out with him. Hopefully, it will be able for him to at least calm for a bit. And we can be able to leave it out peacefully…
Trying to come up with something to say, I started to speak up. "No! Please don't do this!"
"And why would I do that, huh!? You can't tell me what to do!" He moved his gun closer to me.
I tried my best to calm him down. "I don't want to frighten you! Just try and calm down! You don't need to do thi—"
"NO, SHUT UP!" Hunter screamed. "YOU THINK THAT YOU COULD TRY AND DO THAT!? What are you, some kind of psychiatrist!?" He then prepared to pull the trigger. "Just shut up and hold still!"
"Listen to me, all of this isn't you! I don't believe it is!" I shouted, trying to come up with more words to say. "Doing all of this to these people isn't worth it! I know that you weren't like this in the past…"
Hunter looked at me. His expression was filled with both anger and fear. It looks like that he's being confused of what he's doing. "W-what are you talking about!? You don't know anything about me!" He screamed, trying to raise his gun up with his shivering hands.
"From the news, I heard that you used to have a family. Two parents and a brother, right?"
"What about them!? FUCK THEM!" Hunter shouted. "I don't even give a shit about them at all! Mom was just a lazy bitch, always drinking on her beer and abusing dad! Jeremy was just an annoying fuck who just bitches and moans! And dad I didn't even cared about! He doesn't have any balls to be my own father! They didn't even cared about me! They thought I was FREAKING INVISIBLE TO THEM!" He ranted on about them.
I started to gasp lightly at what he said. I knew this thing before. Abusive parents, siblings who despised others. It reminds me so much of Riley when she was being abused by her parents. Or even Laura, who wanted to do nothing but loathe at her own family. I wanted to help this guy out, maybe to at least help him change. All throughout my life, I'd met people who I wanted to help change their ways, but it was always too late. I pray to god that helping Hunter out won't end up as awful as I thought…
I then spoke up. "But why do you have to kill them? Would it really be worth it?"
"What the fuck are you even saying!?" Hunter glared as he tried to pull the trigger. "This has nothing to do with anything!"
"Yes it does!" I started to yell back at him. "I've seen this before! I know that I can help y—"
"NO, NO YOU FREAKING CAN'T!" Hunter screamed.
"JUST LET ME TRY AND HELP YOU!"
"NO, JUST SHUT UP AND DI—"
And then, I just…let it go. "I KILLED PEOPLE TOO!" I shouted with all my might.
Hunter's expression of anger lightly softened. "…W-what?" He whispered.
I immediately gasped at my comment.
I did it. I actually said it.
I couldn't believe I just said it. To someone, a complete stranger.
I just looked up at him with a few tears coming down from my eyes. What was I going to say now?
Having no other choice, I have to reveal it. It was the only way to reason with him. I just…
Wiping my tears off, I started to speak up…
"…I…I killed people before…" Wiping the tears off my face. "I've done horrible things to people before…"
Hunter looked at me in disbelief. "N-no way! You're lying—"
"I-I'm not…" I stopped him. I then tried my best to continue. "…I was like you, but just like you, I wasn't like this before. I just to be a normal person, nothing else. I even had friends to support me. But then, I soon had these thoughts in my head. These thoughts just came in and caused me to have depression…" I tried not to cry. "And, for the rest of my time, I dealt with it by ruining other's happiness. I thought that killing them would maybe solve my depression…but it didn't. It just got worse…"
"B-but that doesn't prove anything!" Hunter objected. "How can you even say that!?"
"Believe me, Hunter. I'm telling the truth…" I slowly walked up to him, not caring about his gun aiming at me. "If you ended up losing everything that you loved and ruined it for someone else, would it be worth it…?"
Hunter just stared at me in confusion. His face was forming more into an afraid look rather than a glare. "W-what are you…?"
I then reached him, putting his gun down to the floor. "Losing control of you depression and going rouge isn't going to change anything, Hunter. It's not worth it. Killing you family members for what they've done to you isn't going to solve anything. You could've tried to fix things. You could maybe go into another path and change yourself. That's what I'm trying to do…and I hope that they won't know yet…"
Suddenly, he started to cry. He kneeled down on the floor, choking down on his tears. I attempted to put a hand on one of his shoulders, wanting to calm him down.
"I-it's okay…it's going to be alright…" I said. Now if only I could change mines for the better.
He then started into me as I stared down at his tear-stained face. He doesn't look like a killer anymore, but a normal human being. He's just someone who knows what he did wrong all his life and is not sure of how to change it. And this all parallels to me…
But then, he started to speak again. "…Y-You…"
I then tried to respond. "W-what…?"
"…I-I know that voice from before…" Hunter then got up, still staring at me. "It sounded familiar."
My heart started to beat faster. I can't show fear to him now. He's going to know in a matter of seconds. But unfortunately, I was such a fool to jinx it.
"I…it's you… IT'S YOU ISN'T IT!?" His face made a devastating glare.
I moved back, quickly trying to find a way out. "W-what are you talking about?"
"You're the same guy I saw on TV from the morning! About how I was the one responsible for the death of some little kid! WHICH I DIDN'T DO!" He screamed in rage as he ran up to catch me.
Swiftly, I dodged Hunter as I watched him trip on his face. He then got up and grabbed his gun before I could throw it out. I stopped dead in my tracks once he aimed it at me. I winced in taking the preparing bullet only to hear a clicking sound coming from the gun.
There were no more bullets.
"FUCKING DAMMIT!" Hunter growled as he threw it to the floor. "The fucking dealer lied to me about the bullets!"
While he was distracted, I went on top of the window to open it and escape. But then, Hunter grabbed on to one of my legs and flung me back to the floor. I was then being kicked a few time, wincing in pain, including from my broken arm. He then tacked me in as my face was met with his death glare.
"WHY!? WHY THE FUCK DID YOU FRAMED ME!?" He demanded loudly.
"I-I can't tell you!" I excused breathlessly.
He punched me in the gut. "Liar! I know that you're lying through my face so fucking tell me!"
"I don't w-want to!" I cried, getting into the kicks I was receiving.
"Why!? Why did you do this!? After tricking me into your fucking therapy lesson!" Hunter screamed. He then picked up his unloaded gun and prepared to smash me with it. "I'M GETTING SICK AND TIRED OF YOUR SHIT! Do you have a deal with me or something!?"
"No I don't! That's not i—"
"I bet you killed that girl! I bet you killed that fucking little girl and her parents like the lying bastard that you are!"
Triggered by the mention of that memory, I let out an angered screamed and punched him straight in the jaw. I punched him square in the face again until he dropped to the floor. I then grabbed the gun as I climbed to him from his chest and stared into his eyes. Using my strength from my right arm, I was prepared to smash his thick skull out…
But then, the memories came back. There were memories of the people I've known ended up dying right in front of me. And Hunter was going to be the next one…
I couldn't take it anymore. I just lowered the gun away before moving some tears out. Hunter saw this and let out a frustrated growl.
"What the fuck are you waiting for!? JUST DO IT ALREADY!" He screamed.
The same parallels came in when I remembered Scott's death. No…I couldn't let this happen…not again. I don't want to kill more people. I really don't…
If I do, then it won't be worth it. They deserve to be alive. I don't want to the same fate to happen to this person…!
"JUST DO IT! JUST KILL ME NOW!" Hunter kept begging me.
"NO!" I screamed back as I then began to sob. "N-no! No, not again! It's not worth it! I-it's not!"
Hunter then started to cry. "P-please, j-just kill me! I don't deserve to live! I don't want to live!"
"STOP IT!" But as I opened my eyes, I realized that I knocked him out with the gun.
I can look through his face. There was a small, red bruise forming from the side of his face. But thankfully, he was still alive. With everything being in silence again, I started to cry. I almost killed another victim. I couldn't believe that I did this…
Wanting to do the right thing, I used all of my strength to drag Hunter's lifeless body out of the room. I dragged him down the hallway, looking over at the entire mess he made. A few bodies were on the floor, one of them being covered in a pool of blood. It was clearly an awful sight to witness alone. Suddenly, I heard a sound coming from the elevator as a group of policemen came out and went inside the room.
"Freeze! Come out Jones!" One of them demanded, raising his gun up.
Suddenly, all of them looked at me, showing them what I did. "…I…I stopped him…" I started to speak. "…I s-stopped him…"
They all cornered around me as they all grabbed hold of Hunter's body. "You did this, sir?"
I didn't even responded. I just stared into space, repeating the words I just said quietly. I didn't even cared how I reacted. All of this came down to me at once…it was so traumatic…
Then, the hospital workers who survived came in and came around me, wondering if I was alright. I fainted on two of them in their arms, wanting to rest from all of this misery. I couldn't even heard what anybody was saying. It was all becoming quiet, as if I was becoming deaf…
Trying to open my eyes, I spotted Hunter being taken away by the police until he started to wake up. He immediately started to panic and scream as officers tried to hold him down. I wanted to see what was happening, but the doctors and nurses attempted to take me away to safety. But I stopped and wanted to save him. I know I still have time.
Suddenly, Hunter grabbed hold one of the police officer's gun as my eyes started to wide, my heart beating in shock. I ran out from the workers, trying to stop him. He then looked at me as he cried in anguish. Moving the gun to his head, I started to scream.
"I-I can't!" He cried. "I DON'T WANT TO EXIST ANYMORE!" He then pulled out the trigger.
I screamed. "NO!"
BANG!
I watched the drips of blood spewing out of his head as he fell to the floor with a thud. Almost everyone screamed in fear or gasped in disbelief.
I just watched in pure fear.
I failed to save someone again…
TO BE CONTINUED…
