Accidents Made Right 2: Kakorrhaphiophobia

Chapter 9: Nobody Cares

Matthew and I sat in the cafeteria, eating our food as I tried to ignore the stares and whispers from nearby people, undoubtably about me.

After a few minutes, I noted Matthew looking at a paper, likely a letter, so I asked him "What's that?"

"A letter. It's not for me... do you know what that place the prison was overlooking was?"

"I have a theory. I remember my parents, back when I still had them, used to live in a very supportive place called Creation Town, but had to go away after something happened to it. Robert would've likely built the prison there to remind me of his control over me."

Matthew looked down, then perked up a moment later, before saying "Creation town. That's... that's where Steve and my sister were born."

"What happened to it," I asked.

"Honestly, I'm not sure. My parents probably knew, but never told me... the only people I know know what happened are Steve and his adopted parents."

"I see..."

...

If I really have a crush on him... is this what it feels like? I feel... awkward, I thought.

Yep. That's what it feels like, Hope replied.

If that's what it feels like... then falling in love sucks.

Hey, you just haven't been in any relationships. Just give it a chance, you'll love it as long as you work to maintain the relationship.

I only just freed myself from Robert. I'll still need time to-

Hope interrupted me, saying If I've learned anything from being inside Rob's mind, it's that being a prisoner, of any sort, is something you'll never be freed from.

What does that mean?

Ignoring my question, Hope said I understand you'll need time to heal... but don't let your past haunt you. Take it as a lesson.

A lesson of what?! That I can't control shit?

A lesson of strength and perseverance. That no matter what happens to you or those you love, keep pushing forward.

Lemme guess. I gotta 'have hope'?

Yep!

My birthmark brightened a little.

Hey, Hope, I have a question.

Shoot.

Why do you and Matthew sound almost exactly like?

I don't know what you mean.... describe it for me.

Well, you both have slightly deep, incredibly soothing voices that I could listen to for hours...

And?

And... the energy. God, the energy. You both sound so passionate, it's almost frightening.

Annnnd?

And... you both seem happy... despite past traumas.

After a long moment of silence, Hope said Yeah, I see it... I'm not sure, but I think it's related to my not being able to talk to him.

How do you know?

I'm not 100% sure, but... there was this one time, where Knightmare mentioned to Rowan that he can't hear fear anymore, because he's too connected to him.