The Death game

n the music, even though I lacked the skill to play myself. The soothing melodies filled the air as

hing me. My world seemed to stop, and unwanted memories

Valarie," Everet introduced, pointing at me. "Val, this is First Officer Ian Harrison. We met at

nuine, but I knew better. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Ha

s sparkled with a familiarity I

ebrows raised in confusion. "Do you

replie

said simu

deepened. "So you d

ooked at him, my expres

nded in my chest as I made my way to the cold garden, the air biting agains

act. "How dare you come into my life after all th

fusion in his eyes. "You're still mad at

in the empty garden. "I hate your existence, Ian. I HATE your fucking e

on pained. "Valarie, I never meant

voice trembling. "Forget everything that

vering near mine. "I just w

. "Some things can't be fixed,

hanging heavily in the air. Finally, Ian spoke, his voice b

y doesn't change anything," I said, my voice cracking.

in the cold garden. The night, once filled with beautiful music,

ay to my car, his presence was a comforting yet poignant reminder of the pas

ncern and anger. "What did he do? Just tell m

turned to him, cupping his face between my hands with a gentle smile. "It's o

e began, his voice strained with the weight of his unresolved anger. Ever sinc

"I know you care about us and want to protect us. And I swear

. Then he nodded slowly, resignation and worry etched on his fac

ght settle into my bones. "Just tell them

I had no destination in mind, just a need to escape. Eventually, I found myself park

lace where I could lose myself in the rhythm of cooking and the hum of the diners. Tonight,

lcome contrast to the heated exchange in the garden. I walked slowl