As Frank got behind the wheel he reflected on all the crazy shit he has been through and seen, and not in a million years did he believe he would ever do what he was about to do. To say the least, he knew where he was going, he just didn't know how to get there. After getting the directions from his laptop he found himself pulling up to a pristine neck of the woods. The homes were far apart and screamed wealth and success. 'What a bunch of pricks' he couldn't help but think as he surveyed the increasing stature of the homes. Now some distance from the town, each had their own driveway with enough room to fit a couple of decent sized homes, at least the ones Frank grew up in. Eventually he found his turning with a clear literal sign. 'Integrity, Honesty, Loyalty re-elect James Amber as your District Attorney'. Now knowing where he was going all he needed to do was wait. His heart began to race as he pulled over, and turned off the engine, as if leaving a van like this isn't already conspicuous, he certainly wasn't one dressed for such an occasion. Rummaging through his wardrobe he managed to scavenge together a blue checkered shirt, some not tattered jeans, and an old ugly tie he must had saved for 'special occasions' "what a load of bullshit…" "look at me Pompidou, I look like a fucking idiot… what the hell am I thinking…" slouching down in the back sofa with one hand against his head he stared off into Pompidou's eyes. The creature only gave the honour of a tilted head tongue half way out amused at Frank's new appearance.
Thousands of thoughts shot through his mind, all leading down a different road, all of which gave him some feeling of dread and fear, an emotion he often shrugged off and ignored. Now, here with what he was about to do, he couldn't help feeling it jump out of his throat with his heart beating heavily upon his chest. Uncertain what to do with himself, he got up and went into the bathroom for a shower and taking a nearby razor began to clean himself up to look 'presentable'. After the transformation he didn't even recognise the man staring back at him. It wasn't so much the shave that did that, rather the combination of wear, and the insane goal he hoped to accomplish who was this man glaring back at him with inescapable judgement protruding from his gaze? His eyes sunken, and hair matted in places. As much as he'd wish to, a hat in this scenario maybe wasn't the best.
After 30 or so minutes Frank couldn't take it anymore, the sitting around waiting for something to happen was something he was used to, but under this sickening feeling it was too much. With his appearance not so rough maybe he could pass off as a long lost relative to one of the residences in the neighbourhood. But the RV stuck out like a sore thumb and any longer suspicion would no doubt complicated the already convoluted plan. So, once again starting up the engine and driving to a nearby park he decided to take Pompidou on a stroll.
The terrain of the park was outstanding, it seemed even the grass was greener here. It was extremely rare that frank would consent to using a lead on Pompidou, having never really needing it, it took some time to scavenge for it. Even at the sight of it, Pompidou's expression was one of curiosity and caution. Frank didn't mind the time it took to finally get a hold of Pompidou and get his leash on him, heck, he was here to waste time after all. Upon stepping out of the RV the tugging of the animal displayed both their strength and excitement! This was all so new to the both of them. Trying to keep hold they both worked their way around the park, with extra strain on Frank's arms at the pulling of Pompidou as soon he saw a new tree to piss up. Fortunately, their encounters with others seemed minimal, with only a few being seen from afar. Despite the racing of his mind, Frank tried his best to live life as though he was the dog, living life in the moment to the fullest. Shouting wherever Pompidou would try to chase another animal or sniff (and inevitably) destroy another bouquet of flowers. He even let out an audible laugh when he finally felt it safe to let him off his lead, met with the reaction of a blank state. It didn't happen often, and certainly while out in public, but for this time being, Frank wanted to give Pompidou the best day he had ever had. With that Frank perched on a nearby bench and just watched his best friend run around aimlessly.
As time went on, his mind continued to wonder. While he was amply aware that he was a stranger to this community, Frank couldn't help but think how nice it would have been if things were different. With a runaway father and an exhausted single mother holding down two jobs just so food can be provided, time on his own was common. With the only bullshit excuse of a father frank only had his mother's example doing everything she could to survive. Frank followed that example, save his techniques of survive were different. Although it may be argued differently, frank believed that someone only surviving too long would reach an early grave. That's how it was for his mother and was only reinforced by the passing of what few friends he had. Either you dig yourself out of the pit, or you make it your burial plot. For a glimpse of a moment, Frank imagined what it would be like to be out of that pit and finally start living. 'Life truly is strange'.
Letting out one more sign Frank checked the time to witness it had been a few hours and the hound had sparsely lost must energy as when they began. Always within eyesight Pompidou had progressively marked every possible territory in the visible part of the park. Every so often looking back to find Frank and continuing. With his daydream coming to an end, Frank whistled over to Pompidou incurring a bolt to his owner. Now more comfortable with the lead time wasn't wasted in tackling the animal to get them attached. "Come on Pompidou, let's get back and get some food down us" In hopes to make it the cherry on top Frank was determined that either he would start living, or he would die trying.
A few more moments passed, and Frank had laboured to provide the best meal the limited supply in the RV would allow, a mixture of basic veg, steak, and beans. Lamenting once before after reading on the web that beans were harmful to dogs, Frank was content on giving the more 'luxurious' meal to Pompidou. It seemed Pompidou only needed some time before he caught onto the steak. Something really must have broken in Franks head as before they arrived back he even took a photo of them both, with the golden glow of the setting sun in the background along with their home. Frank truly wasn't one for photos, but Rachel had helped him warm up to the idea, so he promised himself he would take them only on very special occasions. Much like that ugly old tie hanging on the chair. He thought it not necessary to lace that thing around his neck for today. So, with a meal done, and a little wrestle with his friend, he took one last look in the mirror.
'Time to start living… For Rachel…'
Giving a lingering stare at Pompidou, Frank headed towards the RV's door. With a deep inhale, he 'quietly' opened the door, and locked up the RV.
A/N Hey guys, sorry it's been some time, with some assignments and the recommendation for Critical Role a HUGE amount of my time went into catching up in their second campaign. Instantly hooked, and have loved being able to witness such a great story blossom. So, that's the reason for the silence from me, but I've not forgotten this, and gladly managed to pick up where I left off with clear intention into where this is heading.
With this chapter I touched on a little backstory from Frank, finding very little I made it up, so hopefully doesn't conflict with any lore, but if so… then… oh well. Hope you enjoyed it.
I did get some visible inspiration for the chapter which I'll provide a link below. In doing so, I do not own the picture merely used it as inspiration and any praise should go to the respective individual.
/lifeisstrange/status/827567803284733955