We never really did, did we? I’m not sure why we tried, to be honest.

Sure it would have gotten us the money, and the house. But for as long as it would taken us to be together before we could step out with other people, was it worth it?

Not that it matters now. While the ‘departing gift’ was all well and good, I suppose, it was sweetened by gaining my freedom from you.

Oh, I don’t wish you ill. I don’t give enough of a damn for you to bother with that. And since I know you feel the same, you’ll realize I’m leaving town more to get away from your friends than from you.

In fact, to keep them from thinking they have news for you, here’s a picture of your replacement. Much more my type, even you would have to admit.

So, as they say, it’s been real.

Real what is up to interpretation.

I really did. You should’ve seen me.

Never saw it coming. Stealth, I’m telling ya. Gotta go for ninja mode.

Right after I did it, there was a moment of shock from everyone. They couldn’t believe it. That me, of all people, would do it.

I know they thought I didn’t have it in me. Didn’t need to say it, I could read it in their faces. In the looks they gave me.

That’s why I made sure to do it in front of them. Not everyone was there, but they’ll find out. They’ll hear and know.

I killed it.

And you know that record’s gonna last.

an unknown variable.

You hope to recognize the quality, shiny and clean. But sometimes it stands sideways and you may miss it.

Sometimes it is hidden beneath a layer of self-interest. And you think it not there. But it may be, kept small and compacted to almost nothing.

It pops its head out at odd times, inconvenient for the most. But it must be borne out when least desired.

It’s power lies in the will of the one who wields it, not in those who wish not to witness it.

It can free, even as it slays.

that led me to you.

But I didn’t realize what that would mean.

What we would share in the coming months.

How our lives would continue to intersect time and time again.

The blows that would be thrown. Promises not kept. Sides drawn.

All because of a key that led me to you.

And started the war.

It’s not one I expected to find.

One of you and me, when we first met.
It’s a wonder you talked to me with that outfit I was wearing.

I half remember that day. Well, really, I just remember you. The rest of the day is kinda blurry. Tequila blurry, not whiskey.

Your smile gave me the courage to come up to you. It said maybe I had a chance, but you would let me down easy if I struck out.

I broke all my usual rules with you. The usual bullshit about how long to wait before calling. Before asking for the next date. How often to text.

But you were worth. All of it. All the madness and fun. I wouldn’t change a day of it

Do you even know?

Have you ever really thought to ask yourself?

I think I know a bit too much. Bit of the fun taken out, if you take my meaning.

Not for the faint of heart, most times.

I’m not sure if it should be done by everyone. Not without proper supervision.

I’m fine, of course.

So far as you know.

And can give testimony on.